What To See In Cornwall

Whether it’s windswept coastal walks, hidden National Trust gardens, or ancient castles steeped in legend, Cornwall is full of magical places that make you pause and smile. It’s a land of beauty, stories, and the laid-back moments that make our holidays by nature feel so special.

At Lovat Parks, we believe in slowing things down, exploring gently, and savouring the journey. Cornwall is the perfect place to do just that. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to go in Cornwall, all just a hop from our Cornish parks.

1. Explore Stunning Coastal Highlights

The Cornish coast is simply unforgettable, full of drama, charm, and salty sea air. Crashing waves, towering cliffs, and golden sands create a backdrop that feels straight out of a storybook. Whether it’s paddling in rock pools, watching the sun dip below the horizon, or sharing fish and chips on the harbour wall, the coast sets the scene for countless special family moments, big and small.

St Michael’s Mount

A magical tidal island topped with a medieval castle and gardens, St Michael’s Mount is best reached on foot at low tide or by boat when the sea returns. You’ll find it just over an hour from our Cornish Meadows Holiday Park, near Hayle, a perfect day trip if you’re craving a bit of history with your sea views.

Land’s End & Coastal Drives

The ‘End’ of the world awaits. Land’s End, the UK’s most south-westerly point, offers towering cliffs and Atlantic views. Take the scenic drive via Porthcurno for one of the most beautiful road trips in the UK. From Cornish Meadows you’re within easy reach of this whole stretch of south west Cornwall.

Porthcurno & Minack Theatre

This hidden bay feels like the Caribbean on a sunny day — and the nearby Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs, is truly one of a kind. Watch a performance, with the glimmering sea as the backdrop. Even when the stage is empty, the Theatre and gardens are a showstopper. This one’s a must if you’re staying at Cornish Meadows.

Mawgan Porth 

At Mawgan Porth, the wide, sandy beach is ideal for family days out, with space to play, surf, and explore the rockpools. There’s a warm community spirit waiting in the local pubs and cafes. It’s just a short stroll from our Sun Haven Holiday Park, a peaceful base where coastal walks begin the moment you step outside.

Padstow’s Seven Bays 

Padstow’s Seven Bays are a paradise for beach lovers. Each one offers something different: rock pooling, gentle paddling, or sunbathing with a pasty in hand. They’re all within easy reach of our Padstow Holiday Village, nestled in the countryside just a few miles from the harbour.

Polperro

Polperro’s narrow lanes, colourful cottages, and working harbour feel like stepping into a postcard. From Penmarlam Lodge Retreat in Bodinnick, it’s a scenic drive down the coast or, for something a little more special, take the ferry across to Fowey and begin your journey with the Hall Walk, a peaceful National Trust trail with stunning estuary views. However you get there, the route to Polperro is one of those slow, winding Cornish drives where the journey is just as lovely as the destination.

2. Historic Castles & Legends

Cornwall’s past lives on in every ruin and rampart, with stories waiting to be uncovered. From ancient castles to historic harbours, these places hold legends, battles, and the marks of generations inviting you to step back in time and connect with Cornwall’s rich history.

Tintagel Castle

On the rugged north coast, this legendary castle is said to be King Arthur’s birthplace. A dramatic bridge, steep steps, and the echoes of Merlin’s Cave below make this a magical stop. Sun Haven in Mawgan Porth is a great base to reach Tintagel, just over an hour away.

Pendennis & St Mawes Castles

Opposite each other across the Carrick Roads, these twin Tudor forts offer sea views and cannon-topped walls. Staying at Penmarlam Lodge Retreat, near Fowey? You’re just a short ferry ride or scenic drive from this historic duo.

Castle an Dinas

An Iron Age hillfort that’s peaceful, powerful and largely untouched. If you’re after a quiet, hidden gem, this is it. About 30 minutes from both Padstow Holiday Village and Sun Haven Holiday Park, it’s a lovely option for a countryside ramble with a view.

3. Discover Unique Gardens

Cornwall’s gardens are full of wonder, from vibrant tropical plants thriving in the mild climate to winding paths that invite you to explore at your own pace, maybe even with the dog by your side. Each garden holds its own stories beneath the leaves, whether it’s centuries-old secrets, carefully restored sculptures, or quiet corners perfect for a moment of reflection. These green spaces offer a peaceful escape where nature and history blend beautifully together, making them a must-visit on any Cornwall itinerary.

Eden Project

Iconic and unforgettable, the Eden Project is a must-see. Step inside massive biomes filled with rainforest and Mediterranean plants, or time your visit for the Eden Sessions and experience live music in a one-of-a-kind setting. Staying at Penmarlam or Padstow Holiday Village? You’re less than 30 minutes away.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Romantic, mysterious and beautifully overgrown in all the right places, The Lost Gardens Of Heligan are a restored Victorian garden perfect for slow strolls and curious wanderers. It’s a scenic 45-minute drive from Padstow or Penmarlam.

St Nectan’s Glen

A peaceful woodland walk leads to this magical waterfall near Tintagel. It’s a spiritual little spot tucked away in the trees ideal for those staying at Sun Haven who want a gentle escape with plenty of wow factor.

Lanhydrock House

Discover a magnificent late-Victorian National Trust country house nestled in gardens that bloom with colour all year round. Surrounding it, a peaceful wooded estate invites you to wander winding walking trails or explore off-road routes perfect for bikes.

4. Charming Towns, Art & Culture

From vibrant art galleries and quirky independent shops to cosy cafés and bustling markets, each town offers something special to discover around every corner. Whether you’re wandering sunlit streets, stopping for a fresh pasty, or chatting with local artists, these charming towns invite you to slow down and soak up the unique Cornish spirit.

St Ives

Famous for its golden beaches and blue-skied art, St Ives is a Cornish classic perfect for trying out a spot of paddleboarding. Or if you’d prefer to stay on dry land, why not visit the Tate St Ives, stroll the harbourside, and step inside the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden? Cornish Meadows Holiday Park is just 15–20 minutes away, perfect for returning home after a day in the sun.

Penzance & Penlee House

Explore independent shops and gardens in Penzance, and visit Penlee House Gallery to see works from the Newlyn School. This one’s also best reached from Cornish Meadows. In under an hour’s drive, it’s a lovely journey in itself.

Truro Cathedral

Tucked in the heart of Cornwall, Truro is Cornwall’s only city, and its cathedral is a beautiful outpost of peace and architecture. From Padstow or Penmarlam, it makes a great rainy-day or heritage day out.

Padstow

Winding streets, bobbing boats, and the scent of something delicious in the air — Padstow is a classic Cornish harbour town with timeless charm. Browse independent shops and galleries, watch the fishing boats come and go, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the world drift by. It’s also a must for food lovers, offering everything from proper pasties to freshly caught seafood and fine dining. Padstow Holiday Village is just a stone’s throw away — the perfect countryside base for exploring the town and surrounding coastline at your own pace.

Newquay

Just up the coast, Newquay brings a more playful, laid-back energy. Famous for its surf scene, it’s home to golden beaches like Fistral and Towan, ideal for wave-chasing or sandcastle-building. There’s plenty to enjoy off the beach too — beach cafés, local shops, and family-friendly attractions like the aquarium and zoo. Sun Haven Holiday Park, tucked away in peaceful Mawgan Porth, is just minutes from the heart of Newquay — a quiet retreat that still keeps you close to all the seaside fun.

Mawgan Porth

Tucked between Newquay and Padstow, Mawgan Porth is a peaceful coastal gem where golden sands meet rolling green hills. The beach here is wide, sheltered, and ideal for family days out — whether you’re splashing in the waves, exploring rock pools, or just soaking up the sea air. There’s a small cluster of local cafés, shops, and a welcoming, laid-back feel that makes it easy to unwind. Just a short woodland stroll from the sand, Sun Haven Holiday Park offers the best of both worlds.

Fowey

Perched on the edge of a sparkling estuary, Fowey is full of coastal charm and character. Its narrow streets are lined with independent shops, cosy cafés, and colourful cottages that lead down to the waterfront, where boats gently sway and ferries cross to nearby villages. There’s a rich literary history here too, Fowey was once home to author Daphne du Maurier, and the town still hosts a popular literary festival each year. Just across the river in peaceful Bodinnick, Penmarlam Lodge Retreat is the perfect base, quiet, scenic, and just a short ferry ride from the heart of it all.

5. Outdoor & Adventure Highlights

Whether it’s surfing, hiking or a family trip to the zoo, Cornwall’s full of outdoor fun that make for the perfect holiday by nature.

South West Coast Path

Winding along clifftops and beaches, this long-distance path offers some of the best views in the UK. From Sun Haven, walk straight out to Mawgan Porth, or drive to Bedruthan Steps for dramatic stacks and golden sands. From Padstow, you can also join lovely trails in the Seven Bays area.

Surfing in Newquay

Whether you’re watching from the beach or riding the waves, Fistral Beach in Newquay is a surfing hub. Sun Haven is just a short drive away for recovering from surf lessons or family beach days.

Blue Reef Aquarium & Newquay Zoo

Perfect for rainy days or wildlife-loving little ones, both spots are near Sun Haven and make for lovely days out.

6. Festive Attractions & Events

Cornwall knows how to celebrate, whether it’s live music echoing through the biomes, boats dressed in bunting for a summer regatta, or fairy lights twinkling in a harbour town at Christmas. Cornish hospitality shines year-round in our favourite corner of the South West  and there’s no better way to experience it than through the events, festivals and shared moments that bring our Cornish communities to life.

Eden Sessions & Seasonal Highlights

At the Eden Project, events and experiences change with the seasons. In summer, the Eden Sessions bring big-name artists to the stage, while winter brings festive trails, illuminated biomes, and cosy cafés serving seasonal treats. Staying at Padstow Holiday Village or Penmarlam Lodge Retreat puts you just a short drive from it all — perfect for a day out, whatever time of year you visit.

Local Markets & Harbour Celebrations

Cornish towns throw a good festival. From spring fairs to autumn food weeks, there’s always something to discover. Padstow and Fowey, in particular, are full of life during the winter months, when their harbours light up for seasonal markets. The Padstow Christmas Festival and Fowey Christmas Market offer everything from artisan gifts and street food to live music and festive cheer as well as a great reason to visit in the quieter months. And the best part? Both Padstow Holiday Village, Sun Haven and Penmarlam are open right through to the New Year, giving you a peaceful base to enjoy the festivities.

Boat Trips & Community Events

From sailing regattas to Falmouth’s free Sea Shanty Festival, towns like St Ives, Fowey, and Padstow host events that reflect Cornwall’s strong sense of community and connection to the sea. Prefer something gentler? Take a boat from Fowey and drift through hidden creeks and quiet waters, a perfect day out if you’re staying riverside at Penmarlam Lodge Retreat.

Ready to Fall in Love with Cornwall?

Cornwall’s beauty has to be seen to be believed. And there’s no better way to explore it than from one of our lovingly located parks. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for more, our holiday parks offer a warm welcome, beautiful surroundings, and easy access to all that Cornwall has to offer.

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