Tourist Attractions in Cornwall

Cornwall has some of the most beautiful and scenic areas in the country, as well as lots to do and see for all the family, so be sure to visit the following reccommended attractions and places of interest to make your stay as enjoyable as it can be!


GARDENS, ESTATES AND HOUSES

Eden Project
Bodelva, St Austell
www.edenproject.com

The Eden Project is the world’s largest greenhouse and has become Cornwall’s greatest attraction having being crowned the ‘UK’s most loved modern building’. The Eden project is a successful combination of ecology, horticulture, science, art and architecture. Its success lies in being a fun and educational place, with things changing and growing all the time, making each visit unique.


The National Trust is a charity. It owns many of Cornwall’s finest historic houses, gardens and landscaped parks. More than half of the Cornish coast is owned by the National Trust, the unspoilt countryside and coastline is therefore protected forever.

Cornwall is a host to some of the finest National Trust properties and gardens. Within these you will find masses of space and freedom in beautifully kept landscapes, room to roam or simply relax and enjoy the peace. The National Trust provides lots of trails, quizzes and games that whole families will enjoy. There are events throughout the year, including hands-on activities for children, open air concerts and plays, costumed guides and historical re-enactments. Restaurants and tea rooms serving the best of Cornish food and drink, plus children’s menus and the finest Cornish Ice creams, perfectly complimenting to a warm summers afternoon in the Cornish surrounds. Galleries and gifts shops are dotted throughout selling the best local crafts, books
and specialities.

The National Trust owns the following, all of which are highly recommended for their historic beauty.

Glendurgan Garden
Mawnan Smith, nr Falmouth

A Superb subtropical garden with year-round interest, this garden was created by the Fox family in the 1820s. A lush and sheltered valley with views over the Helford River, with carpets of native wild flowers, fine trees, rare and exotic plants.

St Michaels Mount
Marazion, Penzance

A magical rocky island crowned with a medieval castle and church. A national treasure not to be missed. It is ancient, romantic and breathtakingly beautiful.

Cornish Mines and Engines and Industrial Discovery Centre
Pool, Nr Redruth

The essential gateway to Cornwall’s industrial past. This is three sites in one, set in the heart of the old mining country. Here stand two Cornish beam engines preserved in their imposing houses. The Discovery Centre gives you the whole dramatic story of Cornish mining, with a fascinating audio-visual presentation to enhance
your knowledge.

For more of the Cornish nature wonders visit;
www.nationaltrust.org.uk

LOCAL WILDLIFE

Cornwall has a great deal to offer people with an interest in the natural world, or even if you haven’t, the local surrounds and facilities will be sure to enrapture you.

The National Seal Sanctuary
Helford Estuary, nr Gweek

Located on the picturesque Helford Estuary, the National Seal Sanctuary is a wonderful place to visit, for tourists as well as locals. The Sanctuary is a busy rescue centre and home to locally rescued Grey Seals, Common Seals, Californian and Patagonian
Sea Lions.

Blue Reef Aquarium
Towan Beach, Newquay

The Blue Reef Aquarium is situated on Towan Beach in the centre of Newquay (a fantastic place to see but you’ll need an extra day or two just to explore what else this popular holiday destination has to offer). Be amazed by the variety of local marine species from the Cornish coast and the hundreds of tropical species which swim freely in the gigantic ocean display, complete with an underwater tunnel to take you deep into the colourful world of the sea and its creatures.

Newquay Zoo
Edgcumbe Road, Newquay

Newquay Zoo is an award winning Wildlife Park in forces with Paignton Zoo. It is set in lush sub-tropical gardens. Home to many of the world’s endangered species; it has earned a reputation as one of the best wildlife parks in the country.


MUSEUMS

Cornwall is dotted with many museums; you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the huge range of subjects available throughout. Here are just a few of the favourites.

Maritime Museum
Falmouth

Set in an award winning building on the Falmouth harbour side, the National Maritime Museum transports you into the world of small boats and Cornish maritime history.

Royal Cornwall Museum
River Street, Truro

Cornwall’s oldest and most prestigious museum, famed for its internationally important collections. See a myriad of minerals, view an unwrapped mummy, and discover Cornwall’s unique culture. Admire the collection of Newlyn School paintings in the Fine and Decorative Arts gallery.

Shipwreck and Heritage Centre
Charlestown, St Austell

This Museum is located in the historic china clay building on the waterfront of the seaport, Charlestown. It is home to the largest private collect of shipwreck and historical artifacts of this type on public display in Europe.

THE ARTS

Cornwall is rich within the arts and crafts, and become home to many artists. The dramatic settings for theatrical and musical performances mean a unique experience for everyone. Infamous

Tate Gallery
Porthmeor Beach, St Ives

The Cornish town of St Ives has attracted painters for over a century, so it only makes sense that it is home to one of the infamous Tate galleries. The gallery is situated with a fantastic view over Porthmeor Beach close to the home of Alfred Wallis and the studios used by many of the artists whose works are exhibited here.

Barbara Hepworth Museum – linked with the Tate

Barbara Hepworth's studio and garden have been run by the Tate since 1980, and are now an integral part of Tate St Ives. Hepworth, who died in 1975, asked in her will that Trewyn Studios and the adjacent garden, with a group of her sculptures placed as she wished, be permanently open to the public.

Lander Gallery
Lemon Street Market, Truro

The Lander Gallery is situated in the heart of Truro, showing one of the largest and finest collections of fine art with a Cornish connection. The gallery is upstairs in the award winning new Lemon Street Market, which holds a number of unique
small shops.