Focus on Cornwall

Published: Tuesday 4th Sep 2018

Quaint harbour towns, breathtaking Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and heritage etched into the books of legend — enjoy a slower pace of life in Cornwall, because when there’s so much beauty, why rush? Whether you’re heading to the beach, the untouched countryside or seaside villages, you’ll find something for everyone. Discover parts of the county most visitors rarely get to see, with our truly local blog.

Two harbours, two worlds

Mesmerising Mousehole

A quaint fishing village, cut into the hills of west Cornwall, Mousehole is a truly local gem. Renowned for its picturesque harbour, the village is full of charm and character, with narrow, winding streets lined with pretty brick houses. Inside the traditional harbourfront cottages, you’ll find niche galleries, independent gift shops and restaurants serving freshly caught fish. And because of the tiny population, the small, sandy, and safe beach remains calm during the peak of summer, making it the perfect spot for families to relax by the sea or even enjoy a dip.

Mousehole Harbour|Harbourside Cottages

Perky Porthleven

While winter brings spectacular ocean displays to the shores of Porthleven, summer produces food festivals, beautiful azure waters, and breathtaking views across the south-west coast of Cornwall. A lively, atmospheric harbour town brimming with Cornish charm and tradition, its streets are full of cafés, restaurants and inns, all serving locally caught and cooked produce. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, the surf at Porthleven beach is unrivalled in the county. Or if you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, the short walk to Loe Bar and the hike to the Lizard Peninsula offer panoramic views across the south-west bay and beyond. And if you make the trek to Britains southernmost point, treat yourself to an Ann’s pasty on the peninsula.    

Porthleven|Lizard Peninsula

Mythic legends and heritage coasts

North coast castles

Nestled along the rugged north coast, just a short distance from the stunning, age-old harbour of Boscastle, the halls of Tintagel Castle echoes with the tales of legends. The iconic hero, King Arthur, was said to have been conceived here, with Excalibur - his famous sword - resting at the bottom of Dozmary Pool in Bodmin. While epic myths surround this impressive, 13th-century castle, you’ll find real beauty on the beaches below. Explore Merlin's cave, build sandcastles on the shore or paddle in the sheltered bay. The castle might be known to all, but the surrounding areas are some of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets.

Tintagel Castle Ruins|Merlin's Cave

South coast coves

Perched along the banks of the Fowey Estuary, the beautiful Cornish harbour town of Fowey is a magnet for sailing fans and nature lovers. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, narrow streets carve between the town’s medieval and Georgian buildings, filled with unique gift shops, local artwork, and restaurants serving the famous Fowey River mussels. On the edge of town, you’ll find the small sandy beach of Readymoney Cove. Sheltered by the cliffs of the Fowey Estuary, it’s the perfect spot to relax by the sea or set off on an adventure around the headland in a kayak. 

Fowey Estuary|Mussels

Our catch of the day

The Wheel House

While you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to fresh seafood in Cornwall, “The Wheel House” in Falmouth is arguably the best of them all. Hidden away in an arched alley leading to the harbour, it could be mistaken for someone's house. But what you’ll find inside is something quite different – it’s a restaurant offering more than just amazing fresh fish, but an experience. From the beautifully cooked scallops to the mouthwatering whole crab, every item on the menu was caught locally that very day. And we suggest you book a table at the same time you book your holiday, as the locals love this spot so much you could be waiting months for a table. 

Whether it’s with family, friends, or that special someone, create memories in Cornwall with our truly local knowledge. North or south, east or west, our teams can help you make the most of your holiday. And with stunning cottages across the county, we know you’ll find your new home from home.