The Cornwall Summer Bucket List

Plenty of unforgettable adventures await in Cornwall.

Whether seeking total relaxation or adrenaline-filled days out, we promise Cornwall has something for you. Discover more and plan your dream escape today.

Cornwall is a stunning peninsula in the South West of England with mile upon mile of craggy coastline, stretches of golden sand and clear waters with isles and islets standing proudly overlooking the mainland. The county is studded with English Heritage sites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Trust properties as well as stunning gardens and attractions.

Take a look here for Cottages in Cornwall

Please see our selection of top places to visit below:

Padstow

If you like your Cornish holidays coastal with a generous dollop of scenery, complemented with a side of fine dining then Padstow should be at the top of your summer bucket list. A jumble of shops and restaurants jostle for space in the streets around the pretty harbour. Fishing vessels come and go, salubrious sailing boats give it a flavour of the Med, and the cry of seagulls adds to the aural landscape. You’re sure to be lured into some of the shops for a spot of holiday retail therapy, and with such an array of handmade gifts and high-end brands, it’s unlikely you’ll leave empty handed. Take a look here for Places to stay in Padstow.

Highlights

• National Lobster Hatchery

• The coastal walk to Harbour Cove Beach

• The ferry ride to upmarket Rock on the opposite riverbank

• Bike rides on the Camel Trail

Newquay

Pleasure awaits in Newquay. The party town has long been a favoured destination for celebratory trips away, but don’t let its reputation fool you. The town caters equally well for families, with its impressive line-up of beaches and fabulous attractions, including Newquay Zoo and Newquay Leisure World.

You’ll want to make sure your holiday packing list includes swimmers and beach gear, because Newquay’s beaches are divine. Try your hand at surfing on Fistral Beach with the help of one of the many surf schools, or simply relax and unwind on quieter Porth Beach. Newquay is the perfect spot for an exciting UK summer break, with events for all tastes including the English National Surfing Championships, and the highly anticipated Board masters Festival. Take a look here for Places to stay in Newquay.

Highlights

• Newquay Zoo

• Newquay Aquarium

• Newquay Leisure World

• Newquay Golf Club

• Surfing

• The beaches

• The array of annual event

Bude

Bude is a top place to go in Cornwall in summer because it delivers holiday fun on all levels. Its brilliant beaches (Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth) are ready for bucket-and-spade days, strolls on the sand, and, of course, surfing. The outstanding free sea pool is a treat for the summer months – or in winter if you’re feeling brave.

The picturesque canal with its ducks, pedaloes and rowing boats offers something a bit different to the usual coastal scene. Take a look here for Places to stay in Bude.

Highlights

• Bude Sea Pool

• Summerleaze, Crooklets, and Widemouth beaches

• Bude Canal

• The Castle Bude

• Bude and North Cornwall Golf Club

Tintagel

Tintagel is a place steeped in legend, with links to King Arthur (he was conceived there, apparently). Its history is an interesting tapestry of tales of royalty, trade and Roman occupation. A visit to the castle is a must, braving the striking bridge to the headland, and discovering Merlin’s cave on the beach below at low tide. Pull on your walking boots to romp along the cliffs and you’ll come across Tintagel’s abandoned slate quarries. Follow the path inland to treat yourself to a view of St Nectan’s Waterfall – a striking 18m cascade tumbling down through a hole in the rocks. Take a look here for Place to Stay in Tintagel.

Highlights

• Tintagel Castle

• Merlin’s Cave

• Tintagel Visitor Centre

• St Nectan’s Glen