Highlights of South West England – Part 1, Cornwall
Spectacular Cornwall….
Cornwall is a land of history, legends and amazing scenery. From bustling towns such as Penzance and Newquay to the end of the country at the famous Land’s End. Cornwall is home to a wild and natural coastline, and there is no better choice for a holiday destination.
From Newquay you can reach most of the region and explore at your leisure. It offers a great base to visit Tintagel Castle, where you will find the new bridge connecting it to the mainland (top tip, walk slowly and don’t look down!). Tintagel is synonymous with Arthurian legend and maybe the ghost of King Arthur himself will appear to you. More likely, you can see the ruins of the castle and then walk along the clifftops for views that stretch for miles.
Land’s End is a little over an hour away from Newquay, but for wonderful scenery, a stunning clifftop walk and cheaper parking, it is recommended to start in Sennen Cove and walk just over a mile to the famous signpost at the end of the country. Once you’ve visited the end of the country, why not take a trip to the most southerly point – Lizard Point where you can watch the waves come crashing in off the deep blue sea.
You can visit St Ives known for its beautiful beach and lovely little boutique shops. Make sure to sample an ice cream from one of the many beachside cafes (weather permitting) and enjoy the town. For surfing aficionados, there is nowhere better than Fistral Beach, within walking distance from Newquay’s centre and overlooked by the Headland Hotel. Also not to be missed are the best English fish and chips, which you can find at Rick Stein’s restaurant, located in the Fistral Beach complex.
For a stunning and unique attraction, visit the Minack Theatre, carved into the side of the cliff and the botanical garden attached to it. If you are lucky enough to see a show, the acoustics are amazing, or you may be privileged enough to listen to rehearsals. Either way, with some sunshine, you are assured of views for miles.
From the little village of Marazion, take the boat (or walk the causeway if the tides allow) out to St Michael’s Mount. Climb up to the castle for views back towards Penzance and explore the history of the island and the community who still live there. Look out for the giant’s heart and learn the legend of Cormoran the Giant and Jack the Giant Killer.
Just over half an hour away from Newquay lies the Eden Project, and it is worth every minute you can spare. Two massive glass biodomes house a Mediterranean climate and a Rainforest climate, complete with tropical plants and birds. Marvel at the colours and plant life and, if you are feeling brave, climb to the top of the dome with the Rainforest Canopy Walkway.
Alexandra Fletcher, Business and Operations Executive, September 2019