Atlantic · Destination guide

Cornwall

Coastal Towns · Hidden Towns

Coves, harbors and a coastal path that runs further than you have time for.

The far south-west of England — a peninsula of coves, harbor villages, and a coastal path that runs for hundreds of miles. The weather is genuinely Atlantic.

Atmosphere

What the place feels like

Slow, weather-driven, slightly artistic. Villages are small and built of stone. Surfers, walkers and second-home owners share the same beaches.

Getting there

Transport

The mainline train runs from London Paddington to Penzance, with branch lines to St Ives and Falmouth. A car helps off the train lines; in summer, traffic on the A30 is severe.

On the water

Ferries and trains

Small foot-passenger ferries cross the estuaries — Padstow to Rock, Fowey to Polruan, Falmouth to St Mawes. The branch line to St Ives is one of the loveliest short rides in Britain.

Where to stay

Local towns and bases

St Ives for light and galleries. Padstow for food. Mousehole, Polperro and Boscastle for proper old harbors. Fowey for sailing. Penzance as a practical base for the far west.

When to go

Seasonal travel

May, June and September are the ideal weeks. July and August get crowded. October to March is quiet and atmospheric; bring rain gear.

At the table

Food and cafés

Cornish pasties, fresh crab sandwiches, fish and chips at the harbor. Padstow and Port Isaac have well-known restaurants worth booking.

On foot

Walking routes

The South West Coast Path runs the whole coast. The cliff section from St Agnes to Chapel Porth is a good half-day. From Lamorna to Mousehole is shorter and easier.

Practical notes

Before you go

01Park-and-ride buses run in St Ives and Penzance in summer.
02Tide times matter for some coves — check before you set off.
03Pub kitchens often close at 8:30pm.

FAQ

Common questions

North or south coast?: North for cliffs and surf, south for sheltered harbors and ferries.
Best base?: Penzance for the far west, Fowey for the south coast.

Plan your route