Cornwall, in every direction
From Crantock, a short drive opens up the whole of Cornwall — surf beaches, fishing harbours, moorland and subtropical gardens.
The County
England's south-western tip
Cornwall is a narrow peninsula at the far south-west of England, with the wild Atlantic Ocean along its north coast and the gentler English Channel along its south. Nowhere in Cornwall is more than about 20 miles from the sea, which shapes almost everything about a visit here.
Cornwall has its own Celtic history and identity distinct from the rest of England such as the Cornish language, the black-and-white flag of St Piran, and a strong mining history, fishing and farming heritage.
The South West Coast Path is England's longest waymarked trail and runs the entire length of the Cornish coastline, linking stunning headlands, hidden coves and historic harbour towns.
Getting Your Bearings
The regions of Cornwall.
North Coast
Home to Crantock, Newquay and Padstow. Wide surf beaches, dune systems and the perfect place to holiday.
West Cornwall
St Ives, Land's End and the Lizard Peninsula make up the most southerly and westerly points of mainland England.
South Coast
Falmouth, Fowey and the Roseland Peninsula sit on calmer bays, with sailing harbours and subtropical gardens.
Inland & Bodmin Moor
Granite tors, ancient stone circles and the source of the River Fowey feels wilder and quieter away from the coast.
Beyond the Village
Cornwall, in every direction.
Crantock sits between Cornwall's surf coast and inland valleys. A 45 minute drive opens up most of the county.
Food & Culture
Eat and drink like a local.
No trip to Cornwall is complete without a proper Cornish pasty, traditionally crimped along the side, and filled with beef, potato, swede and onion. Bakeries in Crantock, Newquay and Padstow all sell their own versions.
Cornwall is equally famous for its cream tea scones, clotted cream and jam, served the Cornish way with jam applied before the cream. Along the coast, seafood shacks and harbourside restaurants serve the day's catch, from Padstow's celebrated fish restaurants to simple beachside crab sandwiches.
Cornwall's surf culture runs deep, with Fistral Beach in Newquay considered one of the UK's best breaks, while smaller, quieter beaches like Crantock and Holywell suit families and beginners.
Newquay & Fistral
Cornwall's surf capital, with the harbour, high street and Fistral Beach all close together.
Crantock Beach
A quieter, dune-backed alternative just across the Gannel from Newquay.
Cornish Ales
Local breweries and centuries-old pubs like Crantock's Old Albion.
Celtic Heritage
Ancient churches, holy wells and the Cornish language along the coast.
Weather
A mild, maritime climate.
Cornwall benefits from a mild maritime climate, warmed by the Gulf Stream, which means milder winters and cooler summers than much of inland England. Coastal weather can change quickly, so it's worth packing layers and waterproofs whatever the season. Late spring to early autumn (May–September) typically brings the driest, warmest conditions for beach days and coastal walking, while spring and autumn offer a quieter, still-scenic alternative for exploring the villages and gardens.
Getting Here & Around
Reaching Cornwall.
Good to Know
Cornwall, in brief.
What is Cornwall famous for?
Its dramatic Atlantic coastline, surf beaches, fishing villages, Cornish pasties, cream teas, the Eden Project, Tintagel Castle and the South West Coast Path.
What is the best time of year to visit Cornwall?
Late spring through early autumn (May to September) usually offers the mildest, driest weather for beaches and coastal walking, while spring and autumn are quieter and still scenic.
How do you get to Cornwall from London?
By car via the M5 and A30 (around 4–5 hours), by direct train from London Paddington to Newquay or Truro, or by air into Cornwall Airport Newquay.
What are the best beaches in Cornwall?
Fistral Beach in Newquay for surfing, Crantock Beach for a quieter dune-backed stretch, Porthcurno and Bedruthan Steps for dramatic scenery, and St Ives for sheltered family swimming.
Is Cornwall in England?
Cornwall is in England, forming the south-western tip of Great Britain, though it retains a distinct Celtic identity, its own flag (St Piran's Cross) and the Cornish language.
What is the difference between Cornwall and Devon?
Devon lies to the east and borders Cornwall. Cornwall is the further peninsula, entirely surrounded by sea on three sides, with a distinct Celtic history, language and culture separate from Devon.
Where should I stay to explore Cornwall?
43 The Annexe in Crantock is a well-placed self-catered base on the north coast, close to Newquay and within easy reach of Padstow, St Ives, Bedruthan Steps and the Eden Project.
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