Discover Cornwall in 4 Days: An Itinerary for Coastal Charm and Adventure
July 4, 2024Dreaming of a short break in Cornwall? Discover this breathtaking haven, where dramatic cliffs meet golden beaches and history intertwines with captivating tales of legends. Not only known for its stunning coastline, this enchanting region is celebrated for rich historic sites and quaint villages brimming with character. Coupled with its delicious cuisine, Cornwall offers an unforgettable escape. Here’s a well-rounded 4-day itinerary designed to immerse you into the magic of this unique destination, ensuring you savour every moment of your trip.
Day 1: St Ives and Carbis Bay
Kickstart your short break with a visit to St Ives, a picturesque seaside town known for its art scene and beautiful beaches. Whether you’re visiting in the height of summer or planning an out-of-season staycation, the hubbub of this colourful town lasts throughout the year. Book yourself a ticket to visit Tate St Ives, where you can explore modern and contemporary art. After spending a few hours exploring the art scene, relax on the sandy shores of Porthmeor Beach, footsteps away from Tate St Ives. Alternatively, take to the tide and try your hand at surfing, whether you’re an eager beginner or seasoned pro.
Enjoy some local cuisine for lunch, whether you opt for a classic pasty or a cream tea, while overlooking the charming harbour, before browsing the unique shops. St Ives is known for its higgedly-piggedly cobblestone streets, steeped in nautical heritage, where endless adventures commence. After your exploration of St Ives, hop aboard the train to Carbis Bay. The train is a short 5 minute journey and offers stunning views across the bay and beyond. In Carbis Bay, experience a tranquil atmosphere, from the blissful beach to the thrilling coastal path, which stretches around Cornwall.
As evening dawns in, venture back into the embrace of St Ives and choose your dinner from a variety of incredible restaurants. Whether you’re craving seafood, delicacies of fine dining or something entirely different, there’s something for everyone at the eateries of St Ives. With tums full of excellent food, take to Porthminster Beach to conclude your first day, where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful sunset, as it rests on the horizon between sky and sea.
Day 2: Land’s End and Mousehole
For your second day in Cornwall, drive to the westernmost point of mainland England – Land’s End. With a morning coffee to hand, enjoy the endless coastal views and take a stroll along the cliffs. Don’t forget to keep your eye out for the local wildlife! Just down the road from Land’s End, discover Sennen Cove, a beautiful beach which is perfect for a morning walk or surf. It’s conveniently kitted out with a cosy cafe for all your lunch and ice cream needs!
In the afternoon, explore your second beach of the day – Porthcurno Beach. Known for its turquoise waters and fine sand, this coastal oasis is flanked by rugged cliffs for a sheltered, tranquil escape. Nearby, the Minack Theatre is well worth a visit. This open-air theatre, carved into the cliffs with breathtaking views over the sea, has a jam-packed calendar of events, shows and activities to suit the whole family. Before your stay, be sure to check out what’s on, so you don’t miss out on the fabulous performances held there.
To conclude your second evening, head to Penzance for dinner, where you can explore the town’s historic streets, enjoy a meal and perhaps take a stroll along the promenade. Alternatively, pay a visit to Mousehole, a quirky fishing village, which is known for its annual Christmas lights around the harbour. With much of its original character, charm and beauty retained, Mousehole is a must-see for those looking to gather a true slice of Cornish pride.
Day 3: The Lizard Peninsula, Falmouth and St Mawes
Start your third day with a visit to the stunning Kynance Cove, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and azure waters. This particular spot is one of Cornwall’s most popular and most ‘Instagrammable’ locations, so must be ticked off on your Cornish bucket list. Similarly, The Lizard Point boasts miles of scenic coastal views. As the southernmost point of mainland Britain, you may be lucky enough to spot seals, dolphins and even the occasional whale.
For lunch, drive to Falmouth, a bustling port town with rich maritime history. This colourful town hosts the National Maritime Museum, where you can learn all about Cornwall’s seafaring history, and the historic fortress of Pendennis Castle, which boasts shimmering views over the coast. As the afternoon hours pass on, jump aboard the ferry to St Mawes, a quaint fishing village on The Roseland Peninsula. Embrace serenity from the quiet shores of the beaches in St Mawes, visit the 16th century castle or delve into the local food scene.
For your penultimate dinner in Cornwall, return to Falmouth, where you can choose from a variety of unique restaurants and bars, many of which specialise in local seafood. As your delicious meal settles, enjoy an evening stroll along Falmouth’s waterfront, from the harbour to the tempting beaches, and watch the sun set on another extraordinary day in Cornwall.
Day 4: St Agnes, Newquay and Padstow
Begin your final morning in an unspoilt spot of the north coast, St Agnes. For all eager hikers, St Agnes offers a multitude of strolls, from the Head to the Beacon. This destination and its surrounding areas is known to be rich in mining history, so be sure to walk along the coast path to Wheal Coates, where the dramatic ruins of one of the county’s most iconic mining heritage sites awaits. After your early start, treat yourself to a tasty pastry from St Agnes Bakery, which has been serving for over 100 years.
To commence the afternoon, head to Cornwall’s surfing capital – Newquay. With plenty of beaches to choose from, grab your board and wetsuit, or hire your equipment out at one of the many providers, and immerse yourself into the swell of the Atlantic for the final time of your stretch in Cornwall. If surfing isn’t for you, the beaches in and around Newquay offer a multitude of opportunities for other watersports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, or perhaps you’d rather spend the warmer hours of the day relaxing in the sun. Alternatively, make your way to Pentire Headland, which is a beautiful quiet haven, where the stunning River Gannel offers an almost Caribbean ambiance, combined with palm trees, Cornish botanicals and panoramic views.
Last but not least, complete your Cornish agenda with a trip to Padstow. Known as a mecca for all things foodie, there’s no better place to enjoy your final meal in Cornwall. Choose from the fine eateries of Rick Stein or Paul Ainsworth, or even a laid-back dinner of fish and chips on the quay. Spend the evening on the harbour with your loved ones, reflecting on the joyous four days that you’ve spent in Cornwall, and even start planning for your next trip!
