If you hear the word “Cornwall”, what comes to mind? Pasties? Piskies? Cap’n Poldark? Cornwall is renowned for various reasons, and we’ve compiled some of the most notable aspects of our county.
Beaches
With over 420 miles of coastline, Cornwall boasts a plethora of beaches. From family-friendly shores equipped for a classic seaside holiday to secluded coves perfect for solitude even in summer. Whether you’re into fishing, dog walking, picnicking, or learning to surf, Cornwall has the ideal beach for you.
Surfing
Cornwall is the UK’s surfing capital due to its Atlantic swell and, as mentioned, spectacular beaches. Professional surfers worldwide flock to Cornwall, both to compete and purely for the experience. It’s also a prime location for learning to surf, with centers in Newquay, Bude, Hayle, St Ives, and Sennen, among others.
Pasties
Ask someone about Cornish food, and the answer will likely be “pasty”! This national dish has been a staple in Cornish kitchens for centuries, initially crafted for miners. And let’s not forget other renowned Cornish delicacies like cream teas with Cornish clotted cream, seafood (especially pilchards), and saffron buns.
Poldark
Beyond the characters Ross and Demelza, the true star of the Poldark adaptations was the mesmerizing Cornish coast. Explore the west to see the mines and coves featured in the show and carry along one of Winston Graham’s beloved novels. Cornwall’s landscape has also graced other productions like ITV’s Doc Martin and HBO’s House Of The Dragon.
Tin Mining
Historically, Cornwall’s tin, copper, and arsenic played crucial roles in the Industrial Revolution. Remnants of Cornwall’s mining past, spanning the 18th to 20th centuries, are evident in the engine houses and ruins scattered across the region. But the history of mining in Cornwall dates back even further, with evidence of Bronze Age operations and early international trade.
Cornish Engineers and Inventors
Cornwall significantly influenced the Industrial Revolution beyond just resources. Notable figures include Richard Trevithick, who invented the world’s first steam engine, and Humphry Davy, who designed the miners’ lamp. Other renowned Cornish personalities are Thomas Matthews, John Arnold, and Sir Goldsworthy Gurney.
World-Class Attractions
Cornwall houses globally recognized attractions like the Eden Project, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, and Tate’s St Ives gallery. Other timeless sites include St Michael’s Mount, the Minack Theatre, and Tintagel Castle.
King Arthur
Cornwall prominently features in many Arthurian tales. King Arthur’s birthplace, Tintagel Castle, and the Battle of Camlann location, Slaughterbridge, are two such sites. Additionally, Dozmary Pool and St Nectan’s Glen are integral to the Arthurian legend.
Smugglers, Wreckers & Pirates
Cornwall’s history with smugglers, wreckers, and pirates is rich and often intertwined with fiction and reality. Explore the Cornish coast’s dark past further at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Charlestown.
Art
The 19th century saw artists establishing studios in St Ives and Newlyn, attracted by the landscape, locals, and unique Cornish light. The 20th century witnessed St Ives becoming a hub for modern art. Cornwall’s art legacy continues at places like Tate St Ives, Penlee House Gallery & Museum in Penzance, and Falmouth Art Gallery.
Sporty Cornwall
Cornwall’s sports scene isn’t limited to surfing. Recent sports stars from the county include Olympic rower Helen Glover and rugby player Jack Nowell. Rugby union dominates here, with teams like the Cornish Pirates. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Cornish sports like hurling and Cornish wrestling.
Famous Cornish Hospitality
Cornwall’s reputation for hospitality goes back centuries, starting from its tin trade days with the ancient Phoenicians. Experience the renowned Cornish hospitality with a stay at The Cornwall. Check out our availability at The Cornwall.