When guests stay at our hot tub cottages in Cornwall, the county is their oyster. Newquay, the popular seaside town on the north coast, is less than an hour’s drive from our 5-star cottages and well worth visiting on a day out.
Behind every destination lies a captivating history, and Newquay is no different. Before you make your way to discover the delights of Newquay for yourself, why not read up on some fascinating facts about the Cornish town?
Newquay’s Name Comes From a Transformational Local Project
Back in the 15th century, where Newquay stands was little more than a small village called Towan, and a little harbour area called Towan Blystra, which roughly translates as ‘blown dunes’. The sandy wind was a particular problem for the harbour, so they secured funds to build a more secure and protected harbour for ships.
Slowly but surely, the little village became an important location in the fishing trade thanks to the new quay (or New Kaye as it is spelt in some historic documents). As the harbour became more important, the name eventually stuck.
Newquay Has Been Popular Since the Prehistoric Ages
The area we now call Newquay had its first settlers in the Iron Age, and signs of them are evident in the form of a hill fort and an industrial centre that exploited the abundance of resources and iron deposits. It is claimed that the area was occupied from the 3rd century BC to the 5th or 6th century AD.
There are also prehistoric burial mounds located in an area known as The Barrowfields.
Newquay’s Population Shifts Throughout the Year
Back in 1801, the town just had 1,300 inhabitants; now Newquay has a population of over 20,000. During the summer months, the numbers can swell to around 100,000, as holidaymakers descend upon the popular seaside town to soak up the sun and surf the waves. As a result, visiting the town in different seasons can be a totally different experience!
Newquay Enjoys a Great Climate
Newquay has a moderate maritime climate, meaning mild winters and cool summers. This makes it great to visit all year round, not just during the summer months, and it’s one reason why the town is perfect for water sports. However, sunbathing on the beach in winter might not be the best!
Newquay is the Surfing Capital of the UK
The hub of Newquay’s surfing culture is Fistral Beach, which has a reputation for having the finest breaks in the United Kingdom. For pros, the waves are awesome, and for beginners, there are instructors to help you out.
Don’t want to get your feet wet? There is a cafe conveniently located where you can watch all the action!
Newquay is the Home of the UK’s Biggest Wave
While most people don’t wish for stormy weather on their holiday, if you’re lucky, it might just give you a glimpse of one of the UK’s biggest surfing waves!
Known as the Cribbar, it’s a particularly special break that needs a lot of things to be just right. However, when it happens, it can produce waves up to 30ft high!
Newquay has 12 Beaches
As a town formed along the coastline, you never have to walk far in Newquay to find a gorgeous beach! In fact, there are 12 within easy reach of Newquay, all offering something slightly different.
Many of the most popular beaches by the town are wide expanses of golden sand, perfect for a day out with the family or splashing in the water. Further off the beaten track, you can find things like dog-friendly beaches, incredible surf, and quieter spots perfect for walks or romantic getaways.
Newquay is Filled with Attractions
Newquay, being a popular seaside town, has many attractions to entertain the kids, such as the Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay Zoo and Trenance Boating Lake.
The town is also a great walking destination with the South West Coast Path and routes in and around Newquay, which suit all ages and abilities.
Newquay is Home to Cornwall’s Main Airport
While many people visit Cornwall by car or train, it’s also possible to fly here from certain locations!
Cornwall Airport is located on the outskirts of Newquay and has flights to and from much of the UK and popular places across Europe. The airport dates back to 1934 and spent much of its history being shared between public and military use, including playing a role during World War II.
Newquay is a truly special part of Cornwall that has something to offer everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing walk along the coast or a traditional day at the beach full of activity and laughter. Hopefully, we’ve helped inspire you to make a trip to Newquay part of your Cornwall itinerary!