Cornwall’s north coast is poetry in motion. It’s umbral cliffs sheltering gilded beaches, cyanic skies drifting above sapphire seas, and ancient structures built atop rugged cliffs in open defiance of time. A hub of outdoor pursuits and culinary excellence, the vibrant coastal town of Newquay beckons for spellbinding sojourns by the water.
Spend days strolling along the South West Coast Path, lingering by the shore with a hamper flush with local delights, and stepping into turquoise waters for rejuvenating swims throughout the year. With appetites piqued, savour Cornish cuisine at a Michelin Star restaurant perched atop rambling seascapes.
Whether seeking quiet contemplation by the water’s edge or a magnetic calendar of events, there are many tempting things to do in Newquay, ensuring a wanderlust itinerary to cherish for years to come.
Surf Atlantic swells
Set against the rugged north coast, with the Atlantic’s white-tipped swells crafting a true adventure playground, Newquay is perfectly placed for days spent riding waves. Lovingly known as ‘the home of British surfing’, Fistral Beach calls to seasoned professionals and curious beginners alike with some of the best surfing conditions in the UK. Hire equipment from Fistral Beach Surf School & Hire, or book some lessons to reacquaint with the salt-jewelled water. The shore between Towan and Lusty Glaze is favoured by beginners, as the more protected bay creates relaxed swells that welcome all to relish the joys of surfing. Famed for its dramatic sunsets that paint the sky in a mirage of reds and pinks, ethereal air beloved by painters and photographers, and barrelling waves crowned with white, autumn promises a particularly magical season for surfing in Newquay, although each season entrances with its own dreamy allure.
Linger on sun-warmed sands
Home to a myriad of beautiful beaches, Newquay invites all to immerse in a melange of golden sands and cerulean skies as the sea paints the horizon in a swell of blues and greys. Backed by rolling dunes and shaped by the winding trail of the River Gannel, Crantock Beach proposes sun-kissed days amidst powder-soft sands, blissfully sheltered by a cocoon of granite headlands. Dog-friendly throughout the year and with an abundance of space, Crantock crafts a winsome backdrop for family-friendly forays. Newquay and Porth Beach sit central to the town, tempting for refreshing dips and sunset strolls. The pinnacle of surfing in the UK, Fistral Beach waits to surround visitors with a haze of salt and sand. Watergate Bay marries a wild setting with luxe dining for one of the best beaches on the north coast. A sweep of 2 miles at low tide, with rolling waves and a striking backdrop, this honey-hued beach is beloved by families, surfers, and those who simply wish to take roost in the café above, where far-reaching sea views and heavenly dining await.
Enjoy sea views and Michelin Stars at Ugly Butterfly
Newquay overflows with award-winning restaurants and pubs, from the seafood stylings of The Fish House to Counter Culture’s innovative approach. For indulgent repasts framed by the Atlantic’s ever-shifting scenes, Ugly Butterfly stands as a beacon of excellence above the ebbing tides of Fistral Beach. Created by Adam Handling MBE, this clifftop restaurant blends Michelin Star dining with a deep passion for sustainable cooking, resulting in a menu that celebrates Cornish ingredients while leaving nothing to waste. With the sublime coastal location at its heart, expect a menu that focuses on freshly-caught seafood and local, farm-to-fork vegetables. Choose from a selection of expertly crafted dishes from the restaurant menu, or opt for the tasting menu for an artfully curated journey through the West Country’s bountiful larder. Pair with one of the complementary wine flights, or browse the cocktail menu for a glass of something utterly inspired. Open for lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea, alongside a relaxed offering of bar snacks and beverages, Ugly Butterfly tempts for any occasion, while The Tartan Fox, Adam’s rural restaurant and pub, beckons for soul-warming fare by firelight nearby.
Trace the South West Coast Path
A love letter to wild and rugged landscapes, North Cornwall’s section of the South West Coast Path calls to all who seek exhilarating explorations and hidden coves. A whisper from some of the north coast’s most captivating landmarks, Newquay inspires coastal peregrinations at every turn. The granite-hewn coast beyond Mawgan Porth crafts a captivating backdrop to any walk, with the prominent stacks at Bedruthan Steps drawing wanderlust explorers to marvel at nature’s striking creation. To the south, Pentire Headland paints the coast in a swathe of red as poppies carpet the ground in late spring. There is a charming circular route here, skirting the pocket oasis of Polly Joke Beach, and ending alongside one of North Cornwall’s enchanting sea-view pubs, the Bowgie Inn. For a leisurely stroll set to a silverscreen backdrop, Holywell Bay invites idyllic excursions framed by dune, sand, and sea. Recognisable as a beloved filming location in Poldark, this dog-friendly beach promises blissful excursions throughout the year, from summer’s sun-toasted sands to winter’s ambient allure.
Stroll through history at Trerice
An Elizabethan manor set within a tranquil garden, Trerice is a hidden gem in the National Trust’s historic crown. Offering a petite picture of life since the 16th century, the manor remains largely unchanged, with many of the original characteristics. Gather around the large table and imagine family life throughout the centuries and marvel at the many longcase clocks that adorn the space. Outside, an intimate garden surrounds the elegant home, hiding an Elizabethan knot garden and a Cornish kayling lawn within its borders. After an afternoon of unhurried explorations, pause for a moment of repose in the onsite café, or browse the shop for charming gifts and trinkets. There’s also a second-hand bookshop in the Undercroft for those seeking a captivating read.
Explore Healeys Cyder Farm
Healeys Cyder Farm sits a stone’s throw from Newquay, enticing with sweet-scented orchards and a wealth of things to see and do. What began as a 150-year-old farm and a 16th-century press has flourished into one of Cornwall’s synonymous producers, with an array of Cornish ciders, spirits, juices, and wines to its name. Indulge in one of the various tipples on offer in the bar, or visit the tasting room for a selection of Cornish potables, from the world-famous Rattler cider to infused gins and a whisky from England’s oldest distillery. The Old Bottlery Restaurant serves delicious Sunday roasts and a seasonal menu, while the farm shop ensures bags leave laden with wholesome Cornish delights. For a full day out beneath the golden Cornish sun, make sure to leave time to explore the beautiful farm. Stroll through thousands of trees bearing rosy apples, embark on a joyful tractor ride with little ones in tow, and meet the farm’s resident animals. For a true cider connoisseur, a series of bookable guided tours and tastings introduce the spectacular production facilities that take Healeys from seed to cider.
Indulge in creative cocktails at Tom Thumb
As the sun sets beneath the glittering horizon, Newquay turns from surfing haven to an evening oasis of warmly-lit restaurants and cocktail bars. For a storybook evening, Tom Thumb entices with a delectable menu detailed with a range of ambrosial concoctions. For those true at heart, the classics menu has perfected a score of traditional cocktails, from the fiery flavours of a spicy margarita to deliciously decadent espresso martinis. A whirlwind of flair and inspiration, the specials menu conjures all manner of possibilities, with blends carefully created to complement the season. Think coconut-infused daiquiris in the summer and cinnamon-scented fusions to warm the soul in winter. Tom Thumb’s expert mixologists have also crafted a selection of original cocktails that draw inspiration from wherever it is found, be it Cornwall’s wild landscapes or nostalgic distillations. Opt for a whimsical mocktail for an alcohol-free aperitif, and browse the bar food for some appetising amuse-bouches, from honey and chilli cashews to air-dried biltong.
Savour sun-soaked celebrations at a festival
Nestled on Cornwall’s romantic north coast, Newquay hosts a number of beloved events and festivals to revel in. For a magical mix of surf and sound, Boardmasters turns Fistral Beach and the cliffs atop Watergate Bay into a four-day celebration that encompasses headliner music acts, surf championships, and areas of blissful relaxation, from hot tubs and saunas to luxurious massages. A little down the coast in salt-dipped Perranporth, Tunes in the Dunes turns the sprawling swathe of golden sand into the UK’s famous oceanside festival. Get lost in the rhythm as waves meet beats, linger by the shoreline for surf and sunsets, and indulge in decadent street food as the atmosphere wraps around you. For those who seek a winsome array of delectable delights, Newquay’s clifftop food festival entices with waterside feasts alongside a backdrop of glittering seas and local music. Gather around The Fire Theatre to watch the county’s best chefs demonstrate their skills or peruse the many tempting stalls for a taste of something unique and utterly delicious as the sun arcs across the sky.
Delve into the natural world at Newquay Zoo
Whether travelling with little explorers in tow or the call of nature runs deep, Newquay Zoo beckons for engaging explorations through the animal kingdom. Uncover 13 acres of enclosures and beautiful gardens, with trails winding through the site and picnic benches promising moments of curious contemplation after each exhibit. Discover all manner of inspiring creatures, from fluffy wallabies and vibrant parrots to red pandas with their russet cloaks and tufted ears. Daily talks invite closer inspection of fascinating fauna, while a range of animal experiences allow you to come face to face with furry favourites. Children adore the outdoor play areas and Tarzan Trail. Meanwhile, the enchanting Oriental Garden promises a tranquil moment for all. For more divine days out with children, Lappa Valley resides just outside Newquay and promises a bewitching blend of history and fun, with train rides, soft play areas, and a selection of storybook events throughout the year.
Feeling inspired for an ocean-dipped sojourn? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Newquay.
