Exploring deserted beaches in the sunshine, wandering around picturesque harbour towns and kicking the fallen leaves as you walk through a pristine country woodland estate… That’s just a taste of some of the many things you can enjoy on a relaxing Autumn break in Cornwall.

The region may be renowned as a summer holiday destination but it is a great choice for year-round holidays too.
Autumn is a great time of year to visit if you want to avoid the summer rush (and the associated queues and traffic) and enjoy a romantic couples’ break.

There is so much to see and do in Cornwall this Autumn – and we thought we’d help inspire you a little by highlighting our top 10. So, here goes…

  1. If there’s one thing that Cornwall is famous for it is its coastline. There’s so many beautiful beaches that it’s hard to know where to begin but, perhaps, the easiest place is the beach right outside our holiday park! As our name suggests, we’re based opposite Porth Beach which is a quiet little cove that is a great spot for families and couples. We’re also just a 5 minute drive from Newquay, which boasts seven magnificent beaches including the world-famous Fistral Beach. If, however, you don’t mind jumping in the car and heading further afield then the north coast boasts some real beauties, from Treyarnon, Constantine and Polzeath further north and Hayle, St Ives and Sennen to the south, you really are spoilt for choice.
  2. If you decide that a stroll on nearby Watergate Bay is for you then why not combine it with a rather special breakfast at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall restaurant? A great way to start the day, Fifteen offers diners spectacular views out over Watergate Bay. So, you can enjoy a sumptuous brekkie while you watch the Atlantic waves crash in…
  3. Staying with the walking theme, Cornwall’s coastline is also home to the popular South West Coast Path. Winding its way around the coast for hundreds of miles, the path is ideal for those who love stunning cliff-top views and coastal scenes – just remember to take your camera! You can even pick up the path from outside our holiday park…
  4. You can leave the walking boots at home for our next suggestion… but make sure you don’t forget your wallet! Truro is Cornwall’s only city and it’s only small. However, what it lacks in size it makes up for in its retail offering. Packed with big names and independent shops, it’s arguably the best place in Cornwall for some serious retail therapy! There’s also loads of cafes, bars and restaurants where you can recharge your batteries before your next bout of credit card swiping!
  5. Just up the coast from our holiday park is the picturesque harbour town of Padstow. This is a great place to visit in the Autumn months, mainly because it is so quiet! It can sometimes feel like you’ve got the place to yourself which, as those who’ve visited in the summer will testify, is quite a contrast. Enjoy a coffee overlooking the busy working harbour, wander around the galleries and shops and enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many fantastic restaurants. A great way to spend the day.
  6. The Camel Trail is an 18-mile, largely traffic free route that runs from Padstow via Wadebridge and onto to Wenfordbridge and Bodmin, on what was a former railway line. Whether you prefer walking or cycling, the Camel Trail is a great way to explore the local area and take in some of the beautiful views of the Camel Estuary. And it’s only a short drive away…
  7. As well as its beaches, countryside, restaurant scene and everything else I’ve mentioned above, Cornwall also boasts many historic houses and country estates that are open to the public. The most famous of which is St Michael’s Mount in west Cornwall. Here you can get a boat across the water to this island castle or walk along the causeway at low tide. A visit here really is a must! If, however, you’d rather stay closer to home why not visit Trerice House at nearby Kestle Mill or Lanhydrock House near Bodmin?
  8. Considering a romantic break away this Autumn? Want to take that special person in your life somewhere that’ll knock their socks off? How about watching a production at one of the most spectacular settings in the UK? The open-air Minack Theatre is carved into the the cliff tops at Porthcurno near Land’s End. From music to Shakespeare, there’s always something on here that’s worth a watch. And the setting is worth the visit alone.
  9. Are you a green fingered horticulturalist? Do you know the difference between your rhododendrons and your camellias? Well, whether you do or you don’t, Cornwall has some stunning country estates and gardens that are open in the Autumn months. One of the most popular in the local area is the Lost Gardens of Heligan which was rediscovered and restored to its former glory some 25 years ago. The iconic Eden Project also falls into this category and is a real ‘must visit’ during your break.
  10. If you’re planning to stay with us this Autumn then you simply have to take in one of the many great local events happening. Some of our favourites include:
    a. The Great Cornish Food Festival (Sept 22-24): Truro’s Lemon Quay will transform into foodie heaven for three days of eating, drinking, shopping and entertainment as the festival celebrates the food revolution that has taken place in Cornwall.
    b. British Stand Up Paddle Surfing Championships (Sept 23-24): September sees the two-day stand up paddle surfing tournamentat Watergate bay, Newquay, in which British champions will be crowned.
    c. Looe Music Festival (Sept 29-Oct 1): Celebration of live music in beautiful Looe taking place in various locations. Over 40 bands playing on 3 music stages, from jazz and easy listening to folk, indie and rock
    d. Falmouth Oyster Festival (Oct 12-15): Packed with cookery demonstrations by leading local chefs, oysters, seafood, wine and local ale, sea shanties, and marquees brimming with Cornish produce.