Ah, Cornwall! Home to rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and endless stretches of sandy beaches. But wait, put away your guidebooks, and listen up. We’re not talking about the well-trampled tourist magnets; we’re diving into the secret nooks and crannies that only the locals know about. Grab your wellies and your sense of adventure because we’re about to embark on a journey to Cornwall’s hidden gems.
From secluded coves to quaint villages, Cornwall is brimming with uncharted territory. So without further ado, let’s dive into some of the most captivating spots that you won’t find on TripAdvisor’s top ten list (shhh, keep it between us).
Tucked away on the Roseland Peninsula, Portloe is about as postcard-perfect as it gets. This picturesque fishing village is devoid of the tourist trappings you’d find in St Ives or Padstow. Think whitewashed cottages dotting the landscape and fishing boats bobbing in a sheltered cove.
🏡 Insider Tip: Have a pint at the 17th-century Lugger Inn and enjoy the seascape right from the pub’s terrace. Don’t forget to try the freshly caught seafood – it’s divine!
Holywell Bay is a stunning beach located just a stone’s throw from Newquay, but it feels a world away from the bustling surf crowds. The beach is famed for its sand dunes and epic rock formations. Plus, have you heard about the Holy Well? Hidden inside a cave, it’s said to have healing powers. Legend or not, it’s certainly worth a look.
🏖️ Local Highlight: Head there during low tide to explore the cave and the Holy Well. The sunsets here are mesmerising, so bring a camera!
Nestled near Mevagissey, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are a horticultural treasure trove. These gardens were once forgotten but have been lovingly restored to their former glory. You’ll find everything from romantic Victorian pleasure grounds to a unique ‘jungle’ area with exotic plants.
🌺 Best Kept Secret: The gardens host an annual Harvest Celebration in late September. Enjoy gardening workshops, taste local produce, and get the inside scoop on Cornwall’s rich agricultural heritage.
Cornwall’s history isn’t confined to its famous landmarks and castles. Oh no, there’s plenty more lurking in the shadows.
Move over, Stonehenge! Cornwall’s very own Bodmin Moor boasts some mystical spots that will give England’s more famous landmarks a run for their money. Roughtor is the pinnacle of such wonders. Its rugged landscape is peppered with ancient settlements, and the panoramic views are simply breath-taking.
⛏️ Don’t Miss: Check out the Bronze Age huts and the enigmatic Roughtor stones. Rumour has it the moor is rife with paranormal activity. Ghost hunt, anyone?
A hidden gem off the beaten track near Zennor, Gurnard’s Head offers one of the best cliffside walks in the area. This partially fortified promontory has been a site of archaeological interest for decades. The views across the Atlantic are breathtakingly wild and rugged.
👣 Walkers’ Delight: Start your walk at Zennor and end at Gurnard’s Head. There, reward yourself with a meal at Gurnard’s Head Hotel (rel="nofollow" target="_blank"). Their roasted fish is out of this world!
Cornwall may be famous for its pasties and cream teas, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find an array of local culinary pleasures. Here are the crème de la crème of Cornwall’s hidden food spots.
Located in the Trevibban Mill Vineyard & Orchard near Padstow, Appleton’s Restaurant is the epitome of farm-to-fork dining. This hidden gem offers mouth-watering dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
🍷 What to Try: Their handmade pasta dishes are a crowd-pleaser. Pair your meal with a glass of Trevibban Mill’s own wine for the ultimate dining experience.
True to its name, The Hidden Hut near Porthcurnick Beach is a secluded eatery that serves seasonal food in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s all about fresh, local produce, cooked to perfection. And the best part? No reservations – it’s first-come, first-served!
🥘 Our Fave: Try their famed beach feasts in the summer – imagine sharing a huge paella with friends while watching the sunset. Absolutely unforgettable!
From galleries to outdoor sculptures, Cornwall houses a treasure trove of artsy destinations that defy the usual.
Situated in Penzance, Penlee House is an often-overlooked gem boasting a stunning collection of 19th and early 20th-century British art. Wander through the museum and marvel at the works of the Newlyn School artists.
🎨 Insider’s Pick: Don’t miss the serene Morton Nance Exhibition. The quaint café serves a fabulous Cornish cream tea – just remember, jam before cream!
Located near Penzance, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens blend nature and art in a beautiful dance of landscape and creativity. Contemporary sculptures are scattered throughout the subtropical gardens, making for an utterly unique sightseeing experience.
🌳 Hidden Perk: Their interactive installations are great fun for kids and adults alike. Grab a coffee at the Tremenheere Kitchen and enjoy the stunning views over Mount’s Bay.
Cornwall is a veritable Aladdin’s cave of delightful discoveries. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone hidden away in this stunning county. From the spellbinding vistas of Roughtor to the culinary delights of Appleton’s at the Vineyard, these hidden spots offer a refreshing twist on the usual Cornish adventure.
Go ahead, stray off the beaten path and uncover the magic that Cornwall’s secret spots have to offer. Trust us, once you discover these hidden gems, you’ll never see Cornwall the same way again.
Ready for your next Cornwall adventure? Do you have a secret spot or an amazing story from your travels in Cornwall? Share with us in the comments below; we’d love to hear all about it!
Happy exploring, fellow adventurers! 🌿
