The Cornwall Blog

Welcome to 2024! As we bounce (or roll, depending on how much you are indulged) into this leap year I thought it might be nice to check out what great Cornish attractions are open in Winter. Being a tourist hotspot plenty of places do close for the season. After all, for those working in tourism it is a well earned rest! However there are plenty of places still welcoming visitors which is fab for locals or savvy holiday makers who recognise Cornwall's charms out of season. So where to begin, well some of the best places to visit involve animals. They of course don't just disappear outside of those popular times! Paradise Park Wildlife Centre has indoor play as well which can be handy on rainy days with kids. Located at Hayle, this family fun attraction has parrots galore, red pandas, pigmy goats and bald eagles to name a few. A visit to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is always a treat, you may even spot a celebrity. Dame Judi Dench happened to visit with her family just as a seal...

The Standard Inn on The Roseland Visiting Cornwall in winter is definitely different to the rest of the year. Cornwall may be at its brightest in the warm summer sun, but I wouldn't discount our winter wonders. Granted, it is warmer (though we do get some snow, especially on the moors) but the magic of winter can still be enjoyed. Cosy pubs galore, watching storm waters rage with a frothy hot chocolate and a crackling fire can't be beat.  Ice skating at the Eden Project For a traditionally wintery experience, ice skating is a firm family favourite. The Eden Projects rink is a lovely space to twirl around, I also like heading to the domes when you need to warm up!  Perranporth Sunset shared on my Instagram for Pickle Design Walking along the sandy beaches , especially with a dog in tow (or is it me in tow), is a lovely past time in winter. Promenading the long sandy stretches as the sun sinks into the horizon is my idea of perfection. Perranporth on the north coast is great f...

Despite the rather undulating nature of Cornwall, discovering our county by bike is a really great way to explore. Whether you are thinking mountain biking through forest trails at Cardinham Woods or a more gentile pace stoping off to enjoy the estuary views towards Padstow on the Camel Trail - there is something for everyone. Here are a few of our favourites... In November, it's true, you do need to pick your days, the weather isn't always on our side. However, on a cold crisp morning with golden light streaming through rust-coloured leaves, this can be the perfect time of year to cycle. Popular routes will be calmer and you don't have to contend with the intense heat summer can bring.  Lanhydrock House and Gardens, just outside Bodmin, have some lovely trails. Specifically reserved for bikes only, they can be great for all the family. In fact this year, Sunday 19th of November, Lanhydrock are hosting their first Mountain Bike Cycle Race !  The estate also has a cafe and p...

Oh I love this time of year, the colour, the crunch under foot, the invigorating air. As long as I am armed with plenty of layers, and the promise of a hot chocolate, there is no place better to explore in October than Cornwall.  As it is a tad warmer down here, the sea having had a summer of sun is ripe for a dip. From sea-swimming to surfing, October is a great time to be on or in the water (especially if you have a decent wetsuit!) Head to Fistral beach 7th-8th of October and you can watch the Korev Surfing Championships . If you prefer your water a little more calm, there are plenty of places where you can hire a kayak or take up SUP. Try the Camel Ski School at Rock or perhaps Encounter Cornwall at Golant near Fowey, such a peaceful spot. More beaches welcome dogs this time of year and that just opens up so many walking opportunities for our fury friends. I love walking the coastal path from Par to Polkerris and finishing with a drink at the Rashleigh Inn , watching the sun ...

It is hard to miss the history of Cornwall, from tall ships and smugglers to tin mines and satellites - its all here. Every little town it seems has a museum to boast, perfect for a rainy day or for the generally curious. In my home town of Lostwithiel we have history in spades. Our ruin of Restormel Castle, the Duchy Palace once home of the Black Prince and even our tranquil river, a very long time ago, was the scene of tall ships and bustling commerce making Lostwithiel an important place, in fact the capitol of Cornwall!  The two roomed museum in the heart of town does a wonderful job of exploring the many layers of this little town and it got me thinking about what might be the best museums in Cornwall to see.  Let's go big first, well put together and interactive, the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth has plenty to captivate and inform, a great place for all the ages. Currently focusing on a pirate theme, kids will love diving into the history of Cornwall's checkered...

Up and down the country communities are celebrating with their carnival weeks, this being Cornwall we also have plenty of regattas to enjoy. Regattas are more than just boat races, with all sorts of competitions and entertainment, yummy food and music. Fowey's one is the closest to me and is probably one of the best, people come from miles around. From Sunday 13th to Saturday 19th of August, Fowey's Regatta is the place to see some beautiful boats. There will be dingy races, fishing boats, cruisers and Troys - a sailing boat built only in Fowey. This event has seen a few royals attend in the past, including our late queen and Victoria and Albert, it dates way back to 1835.  Another place I just love to go (especially in the warm summer evenings) is Charlestown. Famed for many period dramas as the go-to harbour location, they always have some beautiful boats to peruse. Already in full swing, Charlestown's Regatta runs this year from Saturday 29th July to Friday the 4th of ...