This is why Cornwall is the top UK holiday destination

February 07th, 2017

Cornwall is frequently named as the top UK holiday destination, consistently beating out its neighbouring county of Devon, as well as Pembrokeshire in Wales. Many of Cornwall’s top attraction have been rewarded in recent years too, such as the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project.

If you are looking for your next fun-filled child-friendly holiday, Cornwall is the place. Need a little convincing? Read on to find out just why it is the top UK holiday destination.

Beaches

Cornwall in the summer is like nowhere else, with the 400 and more beaches being the best places to experience summer. The most popular ones are crowded with beach goers; building sandcastles, paddling in the sea or surfing the waves. Varying in size, from small hidden coves to sprawling stretches, and either pebbly or sandy, every beach is a wonderful place to spend the day and the kids will love a beach day when staying at our cottages. It is important to note that the sea can be dangerous too, and though the amazing RNLI lifeguards are on watch, you need to be wary of heading into the sea and keep an eye on small children.

Views

Cornwall has miles of stunning coastline, and every step there is a beautiful view to wonder at. There are some great spots to drive to, such as Castle Drive in Falmouth, where you can watch the sunset with some delicious vinegary fish and chips, arguably getting out on your bike or walking around is the best way to enjoy the expansive views Cornwall has to offer. Take a hike along the coastal path and see the striking cliffs with the deep blue sea crashing on rocks below, or head up the rugged moors and see the wildlife come to life as the mist lifts. A holiday to Cornwall must be accompanied by a camera too, so you can capture and immortalise the gorgeous views.

Food

Food is becoming an important factor about where to holiday, and Cornwall is the gourmet capital of the UK. It’s not just about the pasties (although we definitely think you need to have at least one on your holiday – it is a tradition!). There are scones, jam, clotted cream (in that order!), ice-cream, seafood, cheeses and even salt! And as well as the food to try in cafes and for a picnic lunch, Cornwall has an abundance of fantastic restaurants to dine out at. There is Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant, Restaurant Nathan Outlaw, Kota Restaurant, Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen and much more.

Drink

It is not just the food that is making Cornwall a gastro highlight of the UK, or even Europe. There is St Austell Brewery, Polgoon Vineyard and Orchard, Rattler, Tarquin’s Gin and more, that shows why Cornwall has become the place to make wonderful alcoholic beverages. The only downside is the drinking is not as child-friendly, but be sure to pick up a bottle of wine, rum, gin or some ale and spend an evening having a welcome tipple after the kids are tucked up in bed at our luxury cottages.

Heritage

Cornwall has a rich and very interesting history. Whether you are looking to explore the extensive mining history, learn more about the fishing industry that still supports many coastal villages, the hidden past of smuggling or discover remnants from medieval times, Cornwall has it all. The best thing is that Cornwall is very proud of its history and heritage, and we love to share it with visitors. Everyone can enjoy discovering more about Cornwall’s past – and even head underground to explore the mines!

Festivals

Some people have misconceptions about Cornwall’s remoteness, thinking there is never much happening in the sleepy towns. But they are very wrong: there is always something happening in Cornwall, so no matter when you visit, you are sure to find a festival or social event taking place. There are music festivals – Looe Music Festival and Boardmasters being the biggest and best; there are food and drink festivals happening left and right – like Porthleven Food and Music Festival, Falmouth Folk and Cider Fayre, Falmouth Oyster Festival, The Royal Cornwall Show and the Eden Sessions. Be sure to look up any local events before setting off on your holiday.

Driving

Cornwall has many winding country lanes, which though they are not to everyone’s taste, they do make for beautiful driving routes. Take the country roads along the coast, and you are rewarded with frequent views of the turquoise ocean, or head along west of Crowlas where you can spot St Michael’s Mount on the horizon. All the stunning scenery laid out before you are almost worth getting stuck behind a tractor!