While many head for the coast in summer, Newquay is popular year-round for its relaxed charm, peerless surfing and water sports opportunities, quaint cottages and cool cafes. Here are a few highlights…
A world of water
It’s hard to ignore the rolling surf here and enthusiasts flock to Newquay for exactly that. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, you can get out in the sea, with lessons available at places such as Escape Surf School. Newquay Water Sports Centre offers kayaking and sea tours, while Cornwall Waverunner Safaris lets you see a good chunk of the county’s coastline on jet skis. If the weather isn’t conducive, Oasis Fun Pools, with its flumes and rapid rides, is a great indoor family option.
Head for Heartlands
In nearby Redruth, Heartlands bills itself as the UK’s ‘first cultural playground’. It’s free to visit and combines an adventure playground, exhibitions about Cornish heritage (it’s built on the site of a former mine), galleries and studios for artists and wonderful botanical gardens. And it’s Cornwall, so of course the on-site café offers cream tea.
To the manor born
Trerice is an Elizabethan manor house just a short drive from Newquay, maintained by the National Trust. The Arundell family established the property in the 16th century, with building commencing in 1572. You can tour the house in the company of guides who’ll point out many of the original features, including 16th century glasswork and key items in the house’s collection. The gardens are a great place to stroll, with an Elizabethan Knot Garden in development.
Cornish cravings
Whether you fancy gorging on clotted cream slathered on a scone or want to tuck into a famous local pasty, the Cornish larder is well stocked. Fish and chips never go out of fashion and Rick Stein has an excellent restaurant at nearby Fistral. Those who watched the celebrity chef visit India on TV can now sample some of the dishes inspired by his travels. The Stable, also at Fistral Beach, offers award-winning pizzas, including an irresistible four cheese special, oozing Davidstow smoked 100 cheddar, Cornish Blue, Keltic Gold and Davidstow aged cheddar.
It doesn’t matter if you plan to plant yourself in the sand or head out to cram in as much of Cornwall as possible, car hire in Newquay opens the south-west up to visitors - a uniquely beautiful part of the United Kingdom.