A Local’s Guide to Spring in Cornwall

We love the spring in Cornwall. That space between Easter and the summer half term holidays is one of the loveliest times of the year to visit Cornwall. The weather is warming up, the hedgerows are bursting into bloom, and yes, it’s quieter than the height of summer.

What is there to do in Cornwall in the springtime? Here are our locals’ tips for a Cornish spring break.

What is the weather like in Cornwall in the spring?
It’s during these early months that we really appreciate the Gulf Stream effect in Cornwall. We’ve come through the winter with very little snow or ice, and the typical March has mild temperatures of about 10 degrees. April creeps up a bit to 11 degrees, and May is a T-shirt-friendly 15.

As well as the temperature, May is one of the sunniest months, averaging 7 hours a day. What about rainfall? Yes, it can get a bit wet in Cornwall. According to the Met Office, there are about ten and a half rainy days during April, and just under ten in May. So if you’re here in May, you’ll need to pack for all eventualities!

What are the best springtime walks in Cornwall?
In late spring, the footpaths are lined with vibrant gorse flowers, campion and bluebells, accented by the bright white of the wild garlic blooms. The air smells sweet and fresh, and it’s the perfect time to get outdoors.

Here are a few favourite springtime walks to try:

  • King’s Wood. Our local wood is lovely at this time of year, and it’s an easy and pleasant walk down to the coast
  • Godolphin House. This National Trust estate is carpeted with bluebells every May
  • The South West Coast Path. Any stretch is lovely at this time of year. Just watch out for any muddy patches after rainfall
  • The Hall Walk. This pretty walk takes you through the Daphne Du Maurier country around Fowey

What Cornish attractions are open in the spring?
Many of Cornwall’s attractions close down over the quiet winter months, but most reopen in time for the Easter holidays (sometimes earlier, if Easter is late). Major attractions like the Eden Project, the National Maritime Museum and Tate St Ives remain open all year, and in spring, they’re joined by all the gardens and National Trust properties.

Must-see spring attractions in Cornwall include:

  • The Eden Project (try to catch the spectacular tulip display)
  • Trebah Gardens (near Falmouth)
  • The Lost Gardens of Heligan
  • St Michael’s Mount (the view are amazing in the clear spring light)
  • St Ives town (before it gets really busy)

There are also plenty of festivals in April and May, such as Porthleven Food & Drink Festival, the famous May Obby Oss in Padstow and the Fowey Arts & Literature Festival.

What are Cornwall’s beaches like in the spring?
Cornwall’s beaches are beautiful in the spring. The light is stunning at this time of year, emphasising the blue waters and the pale gold sand. Because the beaches are less busy, they are lovely places for an invigorating walk. If you find a sheltered spot, you may even get to sit on a towel with a book…

What about the springtime sea temperatures? Well, we certainly wouldn’t venture in without our winter wetsuits in April and even May. The sea temperature takes a while to warm up after the winter, and it’s only around 10 or 11 degrees at this time. The best time to swim is late August and September.

If you’re coming to Cornwall with a dog, please bear in mind that some of the beach restrictions begin around mid May. So, if you’re planning a lot of beach time with your pup, research Cornwall’s dog-friendly beaches to find the top spots, or come earlier in the spring.

Is Cornwall a good place for an Easter holiday?
Cornwall is a great place to celebrate Easter. It’s especially good for families, as all the main attractions are open, and many of them organise fun events such as Easter Egg hunts. With the warmer weather and the beautiful beaches to explore, April is the perfect time to visit Cornwall.

Contact us at The Cornwall to book your Cornish spring or Easter break.