Location guide: Cornwall attractions

Pretty towns and villages and unique attractions are some of the things that make Cornwall so special.

The Eden Project

One of Britain’s most popular tourist attractions, the Eden Project, near St Austell, is a great place for many visits. Much of its appeal is down to the fact that it looks so impressive – but what goes on inside the truly jaw-dropping set of domed ‘greenhouses’ is pretty cool, too. Each holds a self-contained climate and ecosystem. And you can buy a pass which gives you unlimited entry for a year.

Polperro

An attractive town squeezed into a twisting valley with steep sides. Pretty cottages cling to the hillsides around the small harbour of this unspoilt fishing port. Visitors can browse the shops and be enchanted by the jumble of fishermen’s cottages in this peaceful cove. Since most of Polperro’s roads are little wider than footpaths, visitors are advised to use the car park on the edge of the village. It’s a short walk to the centre but if you wish, during the summer, you can board a quaint electric trolley bus.

Tintagel Castle

Lose yourself to history, myth and legend among the ruins of this castle with links to the legend of King Arthur. With a 1,500-year history and stunning coastal scenery, this is one castle not to be missed. Plan to spend a whole day here – and then return, to savour the intriguing history and awesome coastal views again and again.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Heligan’s 200 acres are a paradise for the explorer, garden lover and wildlife fan. Lost to the wilderness since the outbreak of World War I, the gardens were rediscovered in 1990 and have become Europe’s largest garden restoration project. A place worthy of many visits – and, adjacent, there’s Lobbs Farm Shop, a great place to stock up on meat and artisan produce.

Mousehole

A picturesque fishing village between Penzance and Land’s End on the south coast of Cornwall. Full of old-world charm, the narrow streets are lined with small shops, galleries and restaurants. This is quintessential Cornwall; one of the county’s gems to which to return time after time.

Truro

The only city in Cornwall, full of character and with a spectacular cathedral. Great for shopping. Check out markets that are regularly held on Lemon Quay – all sorts of markets including crafts and art – plus an indoor pannier market and a selection of food, jewellery, crafts and homewares outlets. 

If you're tempted by Cornwall for your holiday home or park home location or for your next holiday, read more about the county and neighbouring Devon in the rest of our regional guide:

Cornwall beaches
Devon beaches
Devon attractions

Polperro image courtesy and copyright of John Chapman. Tintagel image: Pixabay.