3 Days In… Cornwall

People come from all over the world to visit the UK but unfortunately tend to get stuck in the tourist trap of London. Don’t get me wrong, I love London, but there are some amazing spots around the UK that are totally missed; Cornwall being one of them!

For the last 9 years my family and I have ventured down to the town of Falmouth, and ever since we stumbled upon this picturesque harbour town we just fell in love with it. Whilst I would suggest a week stay; especially if travelling from London or further afield, here is my 3-day guide to Cornwall.

The layout of this ‘3 Days In…’ is going to change slightly to the previous one about Melbourne. Believe it or not, Cornwall is actually a pretty big place, and with so much to see and do I thought it would be better to simply point out my top places to visit, eat, drink and sleep. I’ll provide you with some recommended time frames, and what not. Just read on, you’ll get the swing of it.

Get your walking shoes on! (Note, all times are from Falmouth)

Falmouth Town - For this one, you don’t need to drive anywhere. From the high street walk past Discovery Quay and up and round Pendennis Castle. Continue to walk down towards castle beach and cliff road, along to Gyllyngvase beach (where you can stop @ Gylly Beach Café for a nice coffee and a bite to eat). Afterwards, you can either head along the coastal path to Swan Pool or back up and over the hill into Falmouth. (Time – 2-3 hours)

The Lizard Peninsula – Having only visited this peninsula for the first time on my most previous visit (2018), the most southerly point of the UK definitely didn’t disappoint. The views once you are on the cliff edge were spectacular and in my opinion, it had a very similar feel to the Great Ocean Road in Australia. Maybe because the sun was shining but hey! Kynance Cove was a particular highlight for me and was stunning! Also pop by Cadgwith, a tiny fishing town, for a pint on the way home. (2 hour round trip. Easily ½ a day could be spent, if not longer).

Marazion/St Michaels Mount – Again another new spot I’ve added on my most recent visit. Marazion itself is a small town with not all that much going on if I’m honest. However, when the tide goes out at the beach, a causeway is revealed and you can walk all the way out to St Michaels Mount. Keep an eye on the tides though as you don’t want to get caught when the tide comes back in again! (1 hour 30 minute round trip. An afternoon to watch the tide come in over the causeway is an ample amount of time)

Porthleven – I have included Porthleven on the list for one main reason… The storms! If you’re down in Cornwall when the bad weather hits, then look no further than coming here. Some very impressive swells out at sea and if you’re lucky enough you might even see some waves crashing over the seafront church! Also some very scenic coastal walks too west of the town. (1 hour round trip. 2-3 hours would be plenty).

Helford Passage – I have chucked Helford Passage in as a little bonus. This is a great little stop off if you wanted to make a day out of visiting Porthleven and/or Marazion. Situated on the Helford River, only a short drive from Falmouth, it’s a great place for an afternoon stroll. Be sure to stop by the Ferry Boat Inn for a proper Cornish pint! (30 minute round trip. 1-3 hours, there’s no rush!).

St Ives – A quaint town, on the north coast of Cornwall. Surrounded by some fabulous beaches, and one in particular, Porthminster beach is great for surfing. Home to some of the best and biggest pasties you’ll find, along with one of only 4 Tate art galleries worldwide. There is always something to keep the mind busy! (1 hour 45 minute round trip – Easily spend the whole day).

Sennen Cove – Sennen is a small coastal Village at the very tip of the country. A short drive from the more popular ‘Lands End’, but all the more impressive. Once again a great destination for surfing and sunbathing (weather permitting). Combined again with some great coastline walks, it’s an awesome place to visit. Be sure to check out the Minack Theatre (in the summer), an open-air theatre carved into the cliff face! (2 hour + round trip - Easily ½ a day).

Where to stay (Falmouth):

£££ - St Michaels Resort – One of the top places in Falmouth to stay. Overlooking Gyllynvase Beach, it’s the perfect location for all your Cornish adventures. All though slightly more expensive, keep an eye out as you can grab some great deals on the Internet!

££ - The Cutty Sark Inn – A great mid-range option. Some very cosy and comfy rooms, accompanied by a great bar and restaurant downstairs, you won’t even need to leave your hotel!

£ - Falmouth Lodge Backpackers – The budget option, but like the others in a great location. With rooms ranging from dorms to En Suites, there is something to suit any type of visitor!

Bonus – If there is a group of you then look no further than Captain Upton’s Cottage. This is where we stay and works out around £100 but sleeps 6! Would highly recommend as it is right in the centre of town and Joyce is a great host.

Top 3 Brekkies (Falmouth):

Fuel (££) - My favourite place in Falmouth to go for a full English, and they even do a cracking veggie breakfast for all you vegetarians out there.

The Lookout (££) - These guys do a quality breakfast bap! Or if you fancy something a little sweeter then the cream tea is always a good bet.

Baker Tom’s Bread (£) - A delicious bakery in the middle of town. The best place to grab a quick treat to kick-start the day.

Top 3 Lunches (Falmouth):

The Wheelhouse (£-££) - The first of two mentions for the Wheelhouse, because it's so good! They have recently just opened up a small shop, which is located next door to the restaurant. They serve up fresh crab sandwiches along with their show-stopping Cornish pasties! Get down early, they sell fast!

Harbour Lights (£) - The best fish and chips in Falmouth, or dare I say it; in the UK! Order a meal (a selection of fish and a side of chips) and if you finish your chips, simply make a request and they will top you up for free!

Star and Garter (££) - Located on the Falmouth high street, the Star and Garter, without a doubt, serve up the best Sunday lunch around!

Top 3 Dinners (Falmouth):

The Wheelhouse is tucked down this alley on the right!

The Wheelhouse (£££) - Without a doubt the best crab, prawns, and mussels you’re ever likely to have. All fresh from the days fishing; they serve such a simple but effective menu. Tina is also such a wonderful and welcoming host. Only open Thursday-Saturday and always busy so be sure to pre-book!

Oliver’s (£££) - Definitely one for a special occasion or if you want to go a little bit upmarket. By no means snobby or too fancy, just some great tasting, freshly cooked food.

The Meat Counter (£-££) - Some of the best burgers I’ve ever had, and trust me when I say, I’ve eaten a lot of burgers!

(Price Guide £-££££)