As you plan your visit to England, consider setting your compass south and chart a course for the coastal county of Cornwall. This captivating corner of the country is steeped in history and offers a delightful blend of sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, and idyllic fishing villages. So, how can you best explore these quaint Cornish towns and their rich maritime history? Let’s set sail on a journey to discover the best strategies.
1. Plan Your Visit to St. Ives
St. Ives is a must-visit town on your Cornwall trip. It’s a lively mix of art galleries, turquoise waters, and narrow cobbled streets.
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St. Ives is famous for its thriving art scene. Visit the Tate St. Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden to soak up some culture. However, a good strategy is to also seek out local artists in their studios. In this way, you’ll get a more personal and intimate view of the local art scene.
When it’s time to enjoy the beach, Porthmeor Beach is a popular choice. However, you might want to explore the less crowded Porthgwidden Beach. It’s a smaller, sheltered beach that offers a quieter, more tranquil experience.
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Don’t forget to explore the rich maritime history at the local museum. The St. Ives Museum is packed with artifacts and stories of the town’s seafaring past. Plus, it’s located on the site of the former Sloop Inn, which was frequented by fishermen in the 14th century.
2. Discover the Coastal Charm of Fowey
Sailing further south, you’ll come across the charming coastal town of Fowey. It’s a historic trading port and has a rich naval history.
Start your day with a stroll through the narrow winding streets of the town, dotted with medieval and Georgian buildings. It’s a great way to get a feel for Fowey’s history. A good strategy is to follow the ‘Fowey Hall Walk,’ a local trail that offers incredible coastal views.
Fowey’s maritime history can be explored at the Fowey Maritime Centre, with exhibits that tell the story of the town’s sea-faring past. Also, don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a boat trip along the River Fowey. It offers a unique view of the town and its beautiful surrounding countryside.
3. Enjoy a Day in Polperro
Polperro, a fishing village near the Devon border, is another Cornish gem to explore. Its history is deeply rooted in fishing and smuggling.
Start your visit in the harbour, the heart of Polperro, which is a hive of activity with fishing boats coming and going. It’s also the perfect spot to savour some local seafood at one of the harbour-side restaurants.
To delve into Polperro’s colourful smuggling history, visit the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing. It’s housed in an 18th-century fisherman’s net loft and offers a fascinating insight into the village’s past.
A great way to explore the wider area is to follow the South West Coast Path. This walking trail offers stunning sea views and takes you to some secluded beaches, like Lantivet Bay and Lantic Bay.
4. Explore the Historic Town of Penzance
Penzance, at the tip of Cornwall, is a historic port filled with Georgian and Regency buildings. It’s a great base to explore other attractions like St. Michael’s Mount and Land’s End.
Walk along the town’s promenade, one of the oldest in the country, and take in the stunning coastal views. Also, a visit to the Penlee House Gallery and Museum is a must. It houses an impressive collection of works by the ‘Newlyn School’ of artists who were active in the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Don’t miss the chance to take a boat trip from Penzance harbour. You can visit the Isles of Scilly or take a wildlife spotting trip to see seals and dolphins.
5. Visit the Historic Port of Falmouth
Falmouth is one of Cornwall’s most vibrant towns, with a deep maritime history being one of the world’s largest natural harbours.
Begin your day at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. It holds a significant collection of boats and tells the story of the town’s relationship with the sea.
Take a walk along the seafront to Pendennis Castle, one of England’s best-preserved fortresses. It offers panoramic views over Falmouth and the sea.
For a taste of local life, head to Events Square. It’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and often hosts local events and festivals.
These strategies will ensure that you capture the true essence of Cornwall’s historic maritime towns during your visit. So, grab your map, lace up your walking shoes, and prepare to delve into the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes that this coastal county has to offer.
6. Discover the Hidden Gems of Mousehole
Located just a few miles from Penzance, the ancient fishing village of Mousehole is another must-visit on your Cornwall journey. With its higgledy-piggledy cottages, narrow streets, and charming harbour, Mousehole is quintessentially Cornish.
Start your visit at the harbour, where you can sit and watch the world go by. The harbour is still very much in use today, and you’ll likely see local fishermen heading out to sea or returning with their catch. Seafood is a big part of life in Mousehole, and there’s no better place to sample it than at one of the village’s outstanding restaurants. From crab and lobster to fresh fish, you’re in for a treat.
Take some time to wander around the village and enjoy its narrow, winding streets. You’ll find unique little shops selling local crafts, art galleries showcasing work by Cornish artists, and quaint tearooms offering homemade Cornish cream teas.
Mousehole’s maritime history is best experienced at the Shipwreck and Heritage Centre, where you’ll find a fascinating collection of memorabilia and artefacts. Here, you can learn about the village’s fishing and shipbuilding heritage, as well as its infamous shipwrecks.
7. Experience the Traditional Charm of Looe
Looe, a bustling fishing community divided by a river, is a charming blend of narrow streets, historic buildings, and a busy harbour. It’s a lively and vibrant town perfect for a day trip.
Begin your visit on East Looe Beach, a sandy haven with clear waters, perfect for a relaxing start to your day. Then, head into the heart of the town and explore its narrow streets filled with shops selling local produce and crafts.
Take a stroll along the harbour and watch the daily catch being landed. You might even spot a seal or two! For a deeper understanding of the town’s maritime history, visit the Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol. This 15th-century building houses a fascinating collection of artefacts and displays relating to Looe’s seafaring past.
No visit to Looe would be complete without a boat trip. There are plenty of options available, from fishing trips to rides along the beautiful coastline. It’s a great way to see Looe from a different perspective.
Exploring Cornwall’s historic maritime towns is like stepping back in time. Each town and village has its unique charm, history and culture, shaped by centuries of maritime activity. By using the strategies outlined in this article, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of Cornwall’s rich maritime history. You’ll experience the authentic Cornish lifestyle, from the bustling harbours to the quiet, secluded beaches; from the thriving art scenes to the fascinating museums. It’s a journey that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return to Cornwall’s stunning, historic coastline. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure and set sail for a journey of discovery in Cornwall’s historic maritime towns.