5 Reasons to Tour Cornwall, England: Your Guide to Britain’s Magical Deep Southwest
Looking to explore one of Britain’s most enchanting regions? Tours of Cornwall, England offer visitors an unforgettable journey through dramatic landscapes, ancient mysteries, and charming coastal communities. Whether you’re planning guided tours of Cornwall or creating your own adventure, here are five compelling reasons why this magical corner of Britain should be next on your travel list.
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1: Breathtaking Coastal Scenery That Will Leave You Speechless
Cornwall’s coastline is nothing short of spectacular. With over 300 miles of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and golden beaches, it’s no wonder this region has become a photographer’s paradise. The South West Coast Path winds its way along towering cliffs, offering walkers breathtaking views of the turquoise Atlantic waters below.
Must-visit coastal spots include the rugged cliffs of Land’s End, where the mainland dramatically meets the sea, and the surfing paradise of Fistral Beach in Newquay. The coastline between St Ives and St Just offers some of Cornwall’s most dramatic scenery, where historic engine houses stand sentinel on the cliff edges, creating an unforgettable skyline unlike anywhere else in the world.
2: A Rich Mining Heritage That Shaped the World
Cornwall’s tin mining history isn’t just about old buildings – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the story of industrial innovation and human perseverance. The iconic engine houses perched on cliff tops are more than just striking photo opportunities; they represent a time when Cornwall led the world in mining technology.
Visitors can explore well-preserved mining sites like Geevor Tin Mine, which offers fascinating underground tours, or the famous Botallack Mine, featured in the popular TV series Poldark. These sites provide an immersive experience into the lives of the miners who helped shape Cornwall’s identity and contributed to the industrial revolution.
3: Mysterious Ancient Sites and Legendary Tales
Step back in time thousands of years as you explore Cornwall’s ancient sites. The region is dotted with stone circles, burial chambers, and standing stones that have inspired countless legends and stories. The famous Men-an-Tol, with its distinctive holed stone, is said to have healing powers, while the Lanyon Quoit standing stones have watched over the landscape for over 5,000 years.
Don’t miss Tintagel Castle, legendary birthplace of King Arthur, where history and myth intertwine against a dramatic coastal backdrop. The newly installed bridge helps visitors experience the site as it might have been accessed during its heyday as a Dark Ages settlement.
4: Picture-Perfect Villages and Historic Harbours
Cornwall’s fishing villages and harbours seem frozen in time, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Cornish life. Port Isaac, famous as the filming location for Doc Martin, captures hearts with its narrow winding streets and whitewashed cottages. Padstow, with its working harbour and reputation for seafood restaurants, shows how traditional maritime life blends with modern tourism.
The artist’s haven of St Ives combines golden beaches with winding cobbled streets, independent galleries, and the famous Tate St Ives museum. Meanwhile, Mousehole is often described as Cornwall’s prettiest village, with its perfectly preserved harbour and traditional stone cottages.
5: Iconic Landmarks and Natural Wonders
No tour of Cornwall would be complete without visiting its most iconic landmark, St Michael’s Mount. This tidal island crowned with a mediaeval castle and gardens appears to float on the water during high tide, connected to the mainland by a causeway that emerges at low tide. The mount has served as a monastery, fortress, and family home, each chapter adding to its rich history.
Other must-see landmarks include the Eden Project, where massive biomes house exotic plants from around the world, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a restored Victorian garden that lay forgotten for decades. These attractions showcase both Cornwall’s natural beauty and human ingenuity.
Experience the Real Cornwall with Us
At Kernow Tours (Kernow being the Cornish word for Cornwall), we offer a unique perspective that brings our magical region to life. Our philosophy of “If you KNOW, you KERNOW” reflects our deep connection to Cornwall’s soul. As passionate Cornish local tour guides, we weave together the region’s most captivating elements – from pristine harbours, coves, and beaches along the coast to hidden inland treasures like ancient standing stones, mediaeval churches, and historic tin mines.
What sets us apart is our ability to showcase the ‘real’ Cornwall, including lesser-known spots that are typically harder to access. Our private tours offer the flexibility to customise your journey, ensuring you experience Cornwall’s magic at your own pace. With public transport being limited in rural areas, having a knowledgeable local guide makes all the difference in discovering those hidden gems that make Cornwall truly special.
Don’t just visit Cornwall – experience it through the eyes of a local. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime in one of Britain’s most enchanting regions.
Book Your Cornish Adventure Today
Ready to discover the real Cornwall? Take the first step towards your unforgettable journey:
- Contact us to discuss your perfect itinerary
- Choose from our range of customizable private tours
- Let us show you the Cornwall that most visitors never see
Remember – “If you KNOW, you KERNOW!”