Cornwall’s Hidden Gems and Coastal Wonders
Cornwall’s Hidden Gems and Coastal Wonders
In this blog, we explore some areas of beauty in Cornwall, where rugged coastlines meet quaint villages, and each turn reveals a piece of history etched into the landscape.
From the open-air allure of the Minack Theatre in Porthcurno to the timeless charm of Charlestown’s UNESCO-listed harbour, Cornwall beckons with tales of smugglers, historic ports, and captivating natural beauty.
Join us as we navigate the narrow lanes of Mousehole, a village frozen in time, and look into the maritime history of Falmouth. We’ll also traverse the southernmost tip of the UK at Lizard Point and bask in the tranquillity of the forgotten Cornwall in the secluded Rame Peninsula.
So, let’s explore the captivating areas of Cornwall’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets, picturesque landscapes, and the timeless stories etched into its coastal communities.
Porthcurno
Our first stop, for Cornwall’s Hidden Gems and tucked away in the corner of southwest Cornwall, Porthcurno is a tiny village that has gained fame for the Minack Theatre, an open-air auditorium dug out by hand in 1932 by a remarkable woman named Rowena Cade.
Tour the Minack Theatre or catch a live performance in Cornwall. Additionally, Porthcurno Beach, surrounded by cliffs, is one of my favourite spots in the West Country.
Don’t miss the Telegraph Museum, a fascinating attraction and one of the best things to do in Cornwall, even on rainy days.
How to get there: Accessible by car, with a few large car parks available. Alternatively, take the Land’s End Coaster from Penzance.
Mousehole
With boats gently bobbing in the historic harbour, Mousehole appears straight out of a postcard.
This charming fishing village is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Mousehole holds centuries of history within its streets.
Once a more significant port than Penzance or Newlyn, Mousehole faced destruction by Spanish invaders in 1595, leaving only one building pre-dating this event.
The village has a rich history as a smuggler’s haven, the birthplace of Stargazy Pie, and the site of the tragic Penlee lifeboat disaster.
How to get there: Avoid driving due to narrow and winding roads; instead, park in Penzance harbour and take the M6 bus to Mousehole.
Penzance
Once a bustling tourist hub in the 19th century, Penzance may not be as popular today, but it still holds attractions worthy of a visit.
Chapel Street boasts historically significant buildings, including pubs like The Turk’s Head and Admiral Benbow, along with the childhood home of Maria Bramwell, mother to the Bronte sisters.
Venture to Newlyn for seafood and art, or explore Penzance for the Penlee House Gallery and Museum. Enjoy a dip in the harbour or head east to beach towns like Praa Sands.
How to get there: Take a train from London Paddington, Bristol, or other towns in Cornwall, or drive and park in the vast harbour car park.
Marazion
Most renowned as the home of St. Michael’s Mount, Marazion is a tidal island featuring a Medieval church and castle.
This National Trust property is often compared to Mont St Michel in Normandy, both situated on tidal islands.
Accessible only on certain days of the month, with the tidal causeway open even less frequently, St. Michael’s Mount offers captivating views from Marazion Beach.
How to get there: Buses connect St. Michael’s Mount with Penzance or park in designated areas.
Porthleven
Nestled in the northwest corner of the Lizard Peninsula, Porthleven stands out as one of Cornwall’s most attractive harbour towns.
Dating back to 1811, the harbour is lined with charming 19th-century buildings. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the boats, and enjoy an ice cream or some traditional fish and chips!
How to get there: Buses are available from Helston or Penzance, and there are parking facilities for drivers.
The Lizard
Often considered one of the most spectacular areas in the UK, The Lizard is a jagged stretch of land extending into the sea.
Lizard Point, the most southerly point in the country, offers a breathtaking coastline and is truly one of Cornwall’s Hidden Gems , including the famous Kynance Cove.
The area is quite isolated but worth the visit for its outstanding beauty and unforgettable views.
Explore the nearby Gweek Seal Sanctuary, the Museum of Cornish Life at Helston, and the Trebah Subtropical Gardens.
How to get there: The A3083 leads to Lizard Point, with minor roads branching off to main attractions on the east and west coasts. Public transport includes the Lizard Coaster Bus from Helston.
Falmouth
While not as historic as some of Cornwall’s fishing villages, Falmouth has its own unique charm and history. Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII to protect the River Fal and Cornwall from foreign invasion, is a noteworthy landmark.
Falmouth flourished in Elizabethan times, becoming one of the most important shipping towns globally.
Explore Falmouth’s maritime history at the National Maritime Museum and enjoy boat trips, international cuisine, and lively bars in town.
How to get there: Take a train to Truro, then change to the Falmouth branch line, or drive and park in town.
Truro
As the only city in Cornwall, Truro is famous for its Bath stone-covered Georgian buildings and three-spired cathedral.
The cathedral, a late 19th-century structure, stands as a proud Cornish landmark and offers free entry.
The Royal Museum of Cornwall provides insight into Cornwall’s unique history and culture. Truro is a popular shopping destination, and visitors can take cruises down the Fal Estuary, cycle around the city, or dine in excellent restaurants.
How to get there: Truro has a train station connected to the main Cornwall line leading to London and Bristol, with various city parking options.
Mevagissey
Mevagissey is a traditional fishing village with a rich history in Cornwall’s pilchard trade and boat-making. It is an excellent base for exploring the beautiful Cornwall’s Hidden Gems Eden Project or the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
The town exudes a laid-back charm, making it a favourite among locals and visitors.
Wander around the harbour, explore landmarks, and stroll through narrow streets to soak in the local atmosphere.
How to get there: Driving is the recommended mode of transportation, though car parks can be busy in peak summer.
St Austell
St Austell, slightly inland, is a historic market town with a captivating natural setting. Close to the Cornish Riviera, it boasts beautiful beaches like Porthpean and Polkerris Beach.
St Austell may not be the main attraction. Still, its proximity to family-friendly destinations like the Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan, and the Wheal Martyn Mine Museum makes it a popular choice.
How to get there: The Cornish mainline train connects to St Austell, and there are ample parking options.
Charlestown
Sitting 1.5 miles from St Austell, you’ll find the UNESCO harbour of Charlestown, an 18th-century port that looks as if it’s been frozen in time.
Located 1.5 miles from St Austell, Charlestown is a UNESCO-listed harbour, frozen in the 18th century.
Famous for its tall ships and serving as a filming location for TV shows and movies like Poldark, Charlestown offers a glimpse into the past.
Explore the harbour, join walking tours, and eat at the popular restaurants that look over the harbour.
How to get there: Take a bus from St Austell or drive, with parking limited.
Fowey
Fowey is a picturesque destination known for its beautiful beaches, the tranquil Fowey River, and rich history.
Explore Readymoney Cove, hike to the ruins of Tudor St Catherine’s Castle, and enjoy the pastel-coloured esplanade in town.
Take boat tours or engage in water activities on the Fowey River.
How to get there: Take a bus from St Austell or drive, parking in the car park above the village.
Polperro
Polperro embodies the quintessential Cornish fishing town, featuring a beautiful harbour and narrow streets.
Explore local life, visit the Polperro Museum to learn about smuggling, and explore quirky shops.
Enjoy a drink overlooking the harbour and discover the small beach and Willy Wilcox Cave, a notorious ex-smuggling cavern.
How to get there: Park in a large car park on the main road, walk down to the village or leave your car at Looe and take the bus.
Looe
Positioned on the Looe Estuary, extends to the sea, terminating at East Looe Beach and Hannafore Point.
The coastal path leads to Polperro, offering a scenic five-mile walk.
Looe is a family-friendly attractions and accessible day trips to Looe Island.
How to get there: Drive from Plymouth or other parts of Devon and East Cornwall, or take the train to Liskeard and connect to the coastal town.
The Rame Peninsula
The Rame Peninsula, known as “forgotten Cornwall,” is a secluded gem in the far southeast. Cawsand and Kingsand villages feature charming beaches and historic buildings.
Hike to Rame Head or venture to Cremyll and Mount Edgecumbe. Enjoy the solitude and breathtaking scenery of this lesser-explored part of Cornwall.
How to get there: Most visitors drive or take a boat from Royal William Yard in Plymouth to Cremyll, with seasonal direct services to Cawsand and Kingsand.
Launceston
The old county town of Cornwall, Launceston, is just over the Tamar from Devon but retains a strong Cornish spirit. Explore Launceston Castle, a Norman fortification dating back to the 11th century.
Wander through the historic high street, visit the church, and enjoy the stunning Tamar Valley scenery.
How to get there: Conveniently located off the A30, Launceston is an ideal stopover for those driving into Cornwall.
Cornwall’s Hidden Gems and Coastal Wonders – a Summary
As our journey through Cornwall’s Hidden Gems comes to a close, one question may linger – where is the perfect base to immerse oneself in the magic of these diverse locales?
Enter Tawnamoor, a hidden gem in its own right, offering the ideal vantage point to explore our uncovered wonders.
From the tranquillity of the Rame Peninsula to the dramatic cliffs of Porthcurno, Tawnamoor’s strategic location places you within easy reach of Cornwall’s most enchanting destinations.
The charm of Mousehole, the maritime history of Falmouth, the timeless allure of St. Austell – all are within your grasp from this central haven.
Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Cornwall, Tawnamoor provides a retreat that combines comfort with proximity to the region’s most iconic spots and Cornwall’s Hidden Gems .
Tawnamoor isn’t just accommodation; it’s the gateway to a Cornwall adventure, where each day offers a new discovery.
Your Cornwall’s Hidden Gems and Coastal Wonders adventure begins here!
