Holidays in Cornwall

Cornwall's mix of coastline, gardens and small fishing towns makes it one of England's most popular holiday counties, and there's enough variety here to fill a week or a whole summer. Along the coast you'll find sandy beaches backed by dunes on the north side and quieter, sheltered coves to the south, while inland the county opens out into wooded valleys, moorland and subtropical gardens that take advantage of Cornwall's mild climate.

Self catering cottages remain the most popular way to stay, often set in converted barns or fishermen's cottages within walking distance of a beach or harbour, while B&Bs and small hotels suit shorter breaks or those wanting breakfast taken care of. Whichever you choose, Cornwall rewards slowing down - a coastal path walk between villages, an afternoon at a garden like the Eden Project's biomes near St Austell, or simply a pasty on a harbour wall are as much a part of a Cornish holiday as any single attraction.

Families are well catered for with attractions, farm parks and beaches with lifeguard cover in season, while walkers and cyclists have the South West Coast Path and inland trails like the old clay routes near St Austell to explore. Golfers, anglers and surfers all have dedicated stretches of coast and countryside too - use the sections below to find the type of holiday, and the part of Cornwall, that suits you best.

Where to stay

Things to do

Cornwall on the map