Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE
best
TRAVEL
EXPERIENCES IN CORNWALL
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Seeing exotic gardens:
Thanks to its mild climate, Cornwall is home to some of
England's finest gardens, and exploring them is a delight. Wander through the
magical Lost Gardens of Heligan (p. 406); or sniff lush blooms in the subtropical
Abbey Gardens on the island of Tresco (p. 414).
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Learning about Cornwall's mining heritage:
For centuries Cornwall was known
for its tin, which has been mined here since the Iron Age. The picturesque remains
of the industry have now been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, so
don't miss the chance to discover the mysterious subterranean world of the miners.
See p. 417.
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Getting a glimpse of artistic St. Ives:
Its exceptional light and inspirational
coastal scenery have made this fishing village a haven for artists since the 19th
century. You can see the work of Cornish artists at Tate St. Ives, and the studio and
former home of sculptor Barbara Hepworth, one of the 20th-century's foremost
artists. See p. 415.
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Just “being” in the Isles of Scilly:
Yes, just “being” on Scilly is a treat. This
unspoiled archipelago off the Cornish coast is a paradise of pristine powdery
beaches, sparkling seas, and rich birdlife. It almost feels as if the modern world
never touched these tranquil jewels. See p. 412.
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Exploring the coast:
Cornwall's glorious coastline offers something for everyone—
from energetic surfers and swimmers to photographers who just want to capture
its beauty. There are dramatic cliffs, endless sands, and crashing waves on the
north coast, and secluded coves and sleepy estuaries on the south.
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THE SOUTHEAST CORNER
Looe: 264 miles SW of London, 20 miles W of Plymouth; Polperro: 271 miles SW of London, 26 miles W
of Plymouth, 6 miles SW of Looe
Tucked away between the River Tamar and the River Fowey, this attractive corner of
Cornwall is home to delightful fishing villages, sleepy churches, and fine historic
sights. With its secret creeks and country lanes, it seems a world away from the lively
surf scene around Newquay on the north coast: This is a region best explored slowly.
Looe
is a charming little port divided by the River Looe, which is spanned by a
handsome, arched stone bridge. While West Looe is mainly residential, East Looe is
a popular seaside center. Nearby
Polperro
is one of Cornwall's prettiest villages, with
a clutch of 16th- and 17th-century fishing cottages clustered around a little harbor.
Fowey,
farther to the west, is another pretty port with steep streets stretching
down to the waterfront. Novelist Daphne du Maurier lived close by, and if you're a
fan it's well worth coming to Fowey's annual literary festival, which celebrates her
work. These tiny villages can all be extremely busy in high season.
Sitting sedately on the upper reaches of the River Fowey is the ancient market
town of
Lostwithiel,
once the capital of Cornwall. A busy port until the river silted
up in medieval times, and a wealthy administrative center until the 18th century, the
town has several historic buildings worth exploring, including its church. Just a short
drive away you'll find some great attractions that will suit the whole family: Lanhy-
drock House and Restormel Castle.
