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Cornwall
Cornwall with Kids – Our Travel Tips
Why Cornwall?
Golden beaches, turquoise water, a cool surfing scene, fantastic beach… Can this really be Britain? In Cornwall it can, a corner of drop-dead gorgeous landscapes that feels almost like England’s answer to California. That means instead of slick resorts there are charming old villages of cobbled streets and fishermen’s cottages, the cafes serve Cornwall’s famous cream teas instead of kale, and one of summer’s true joys is eating fish ‘n’ chips while sitting on the wall of a lively quayside. There are endless activities, from horse riding and surfing, to to hiking, biking and canyoneering, while there are a number of excellent golf courses. While summer is when the weather – and water – are at their warmests, it’s also when the crowds descend, so we’d always recommend spring, early summer and autumn, when the weather is still balmy (Cornwall has the highest temperature in the UK) and the beaches, villages and towns less busy.
Why is Cornwall perfect for families?
Because there’s so much to do. The beaches are of course the main draw, from the long stretches and high rollers on the north coast, attracting surfers from across Europe, to the cliff-lined arches of the south coast, perfect for family days out. Padstow, with its pretty harbour and excellent restaurants, is a good first stop, while Newquay is the capital of the surfing scene – Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay, nearby, are two great spots for beginners, offering surfing lessons. Kids will love the calmer beaches on the south coast, too, and there are glorious walks along the cliffs here. For an almost Mediterranean holiday, take the ferry or short flight over to the Scilly Isles, a group of beautiful white-sand islands with their own warm microclimate. Back on the mainland, don’t miss the extraordinary geodesic dome gardens of the Eden Project, and the dreamy Lost Gardens of Heligan, both offering brilliant day trips for families. If you’re heading to St Ives, don’t miss the TATE, an offshoot of London’s world-famous gallery, with a café offering fabulous views. It’s also worth noting that Cornwall is a real foodie hotspot. Head to Rock (made famous by Prince William and Prince Harry when they holidayed there as teenagers) for Paul Ainsworth’s The Mariners pub, or head to Padstow to dine in Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant.
Reviewed by:
Francisca Kellet
Travel Scout
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