Explore Essentials: The Definitive Guide to Cornwall’s Top Attractions

“The rugged beauty and array of activities in Cornwall make it one of the best destinations for a holiday. Whether you want to explore the wilderness or learn about local history, you can find out more in this definitive guide to Cornwall’s top attractions.

Eden Project
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The Eden Project is a fascinating garden attraction that’s a must-visit on your trip to Cornwall. Comprised of 2 biomes with plants from global environments, the Eden Project provides environmental education on the relationship between plants and humans. In addition to the plant exhibits, the Eden Project has an educational facility with events, permanent and rotating art installations, a marine environment and Eden Sessions, a series of musical performances from high-profile performers. You can also take guided tours of the grounds to learn more about the plant life and mission of the project.

The Eden Project is open every day of the year except for Christmas and a few scheduled maintenance days in January and February. The hours may vary for maintenance or special events, but you can check the website for current information. You can reach the Eden Project by bike or on foot, though you can take bus 101 from the St Austell railway station or the train to St Austell. If you take public transport, the Eden Project offers discounts on admission.

Minack Theatre
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The Minack Theatre is a famous outdoor theatre that features spectacular performances from high-profile performers. Constructed in the winter of 1931, the theatre was created by Rowena Cade, a resident of the Minack House, as a site for local Shakespearean performances. Now, the theatre offers professional performances and draws thousands of visitors each year. In addition to plays and performances, the theatre also offers a shop and cafe, as well as an education programme with skills workshops to teach drama to students. You could also visit the Minack Gardens, a beautiful space with rare plants from South Africa, Mexico, the Canary Islands and the Andes.

Because the Minack is a working theatre, the visiting hours and performance times vary throughout the season. Matinee performances are held on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and storytelling events on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Dogs are welcome to visit the grounds, but they aren’t permitted in the seating areas during performances.

For transport, First KERNOW A1 service runs from Penzance and Land’s End with stops in Porthcurno and return service from St Ives for evening performances on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. By car, you can follow signs to Porthcurno and the Minack Theatre.

Fistral Beach
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Fistral Beach is one of the world’s most popular surf destinations due to its dramatic cliffs that provide spectacular breaks. Many water-sport enthusiasts venture to Fistral Beach for surfing, windsurfing, paddle boarding and other water adventures, as well as premier surfing competitions like Famous Night Surf, National Surf Championships, Boardmasters Surf Championships and more. If you’re new to surfing, you can take surf lessons to enjoy the spoils of the beach, or you can simply enjoy the beautiful views and lively atmosphere on the shore. Near the beach, you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants and seaside amenities.

Fistral Beach is wheelchair accessible and allows dogs all year round. The beach has many facilities, including showers, toilets and paid parking areas.

Tintagel Castle
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The medieval Tintagel Castle is one of the most fascinating locations in Cornwall. Located near the charming village of Tintagel, the castle site is home to many Romano-British artefacts and is believed to have been settled during the medieval period. Many visitors enjoy travelling to the castle grounds to see the ruins and learn about the history and lore, including the supposed connection with King Arthur, as it is believed to be his birthplace.

Tintagel Castle is located on the north coast between Padstow and Bude, so it can be reached by car, bike or public transport. You can purchase timed tickets online for a specific time to explore the castle and grounds, though you can visit the cafe, exhibitions, shops and beach at any time. Walk-up tickets are sold each day, but they are first come, first served, so they may be sold out on busy days. The castle grounds are rugged and may present challenges tor those with mobility issues. Leashed dogs are welcome and water is available at the cafe.

Lizard Peninsula
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The Lizard Peninsula is the wildest and most southerly point of UK’s mainland. It’s a beautiful area to explore, complete with picturesque cove beaches, coastal pathways providing panoramic views, historic lighthouses, and charming villages with excellent restaurants and shops. During your visit, you can explore the historic sites, dive off the coast to experience notorious shipwrecks, take a deep-sea fishing trip, get up close and personal with camels at Rosuick Organic farm and much more.

The Lizard Peninsula can be reached by rail in summer through many direct and branch lines from much of Britain. The National Express coach network runs services from British cities as well. You can also drive in on the A38 via Plymouth or the A30 over Bodmin Moor.

Plan your visit to Cornwall
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Cornwall has some of the most fascinating attractions in all of the UK. With this guide, you’re ready to plan your trip. Visit Expedia to check out deals on Cornwall hotels to ensure you make the most of the experience!”