Seeing as it’s St Piran’s Day, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to update my list of Cornish favourites. Here’s a round-up of some of my favourite places to eat, drink and be merry.
A place I keep going back to is Trevaskis Farm – great for a wander with the kiddo to look at the animals, epic roast dinners and the most incredible desserts. Seriously, sometimes it takes me three attempts. They also do a fun pumpkin patch which Jenson loves.
Land’s End is good for a family day out. It has a park, farm, restaurant, 4D cinema and attractions.
Paradise Park is one of my absolute favourites because you can buy a cheap return ticket and pop back anytime before the end of the season. It’s mostly outdoors but also has a soft play area which is open all year.
Newquay Zoo and Blue Reef Aquarium are great to do together in one day. If you’ve got a bird phobia, be warned that there are peacocks who wander around like they own the place.
If you like your walks along the beach, Gwithian Towans is great for dogs and there’s an awesome pub for a post-walk treat.
St Ives is pretty packed with tourists from March-October but there are a few quieter spots.
You can keep your Sennens, your Praa Sands and your Perranporths, I grew up on Longrock beach. With a river for the little ones to play in and views of St Michael’s Mount, sometimes it pays to stay more local.
Longrock also has the benefit of being next door to Marazion – and The Godolphin Arms. Enjoy lunch with a view before wandering across the causeway to St Michael’s Mount.
For food, you can’t beat The Mexico Inn for an evening meal, again perfectly located in Longrock. Their fish and chips are the best (in my humble opinion), so be sure to pop in on a Tuesday.
There are few things better than a lazy morning followed by a tasty brunch and The Front Room knows their brunch. I’m a sucker for the pancakes with bacon – and an extra sausage.
Mousehole is one of my favourite places, particularly at the quieter times of year. You can paddle in the harbour, stroll around the village and indulge in some tasty cake with a view at the Rock Pool Cafe.
If you’re looking for a more nerdy treat, head to Curiouser Creations Cupcake Cafe in Redruth. It’s a bookworm’s dream – and the cakes are pretty delish too.
If you’re looking for a bit more of a treat, The Alverton in Truro is great for an afternoon tea or three-course meal.
Fancy a night’s stay? St Michael’s Hotel & Spa in Falmouth is pretty luxurious – and you can have breakfast in bed.
In need of a spa day? You can’t beat St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa – indulge in an afternoon tea after your treatments for the ultimate pamper day.
Can you tell I have a soft spot for afternoon teas? Why not do a tour of Cornwall, sampling various cream teas? Dolly’s in Falmouth is pretty epic.
Of course, I can’t not mention The Eden Project. I’ve been meaning to go for the last few Christmases as it looks super magical. It’s also great for gigs – I saw Snow Patrol a few years back (OK, probably over a decade ago) and it’s such an awesome venue. Next time we’re there we really need to try the pizzas.
Where’s your favourite place in Cornwall?
How wonderful! I’ve never quite made it as far as Cornwall… yet!
Great post! I’ve bookmarked it to return to next time I go to Cornwall. I’ve always loved Cornwall; it’s my favourite part of the country. I’ve been holidaying there since I was a baby, and I’ve had so many happy holidays there over the years. We’ve only ever stayed in Perranporth, so Perranporth Beach will always be my favourite place, but I adore St. Ives, Porth Beach, Padstow, and St. Michael’s Mount, too. I also love Newquay Zoo and the Blue Reef Aquarium and have had some great days out there over the last three decades. I’ve always wanted to go to Land’s End, The Eden Project, and Mouse Hole, but haven’t yet made it to any of them. I also need to return to Marazion and explore it properly, as I was too tired out after trekking over to St. Michael’s Mount last time. It looked gorgeous. I’m so jealous that you get to live in Cornwall near all those beautiful places. It must be amazing! :) One day…
I think you probably get to see more as a tourist as there are loads of places I still haven’t seen – even after 30 years! Padstow is still on my list 😊