Cornwall has a wide range of attractions that reflect its landscape, history and culture, from coastal landmarks and historic sites to gardens and visitor attractions. While many visitors are drawn by the coastline, there are also numerous inland locations that provide a different perspective on the county.
This page lists 20 of the main attractions in Cornwall, selected to give a balanced overview of what can be seen across the region. The list includes well-known destinations as well as places that are less prominent but still of interest.
The attractions are listed in reverse order, starting at number 20 and working towards the top-ranked location.
20. Bedruthan Steps
Located on the north coast between Newquay and Padstow, Bedruthan Steps is a stretch of coastline known for its large rock stacks rising from the sea. The viewpoint from the cliffs provides one of the most recognisable coastal scenes in Cornwall. Access to the beach itself is limited, but the main interest lies in the elevated views and surrounding coastal path.
19. Godrevy Lighthouse
Situated on a small island off the coast near Gwithian, Godrevy Lighthouse is one of Cornwall’s most photographed landmarks. It is best viewed from the surrounding cliffs and beaches, particularly at sunset. The area also provides opportunities for coastal walking and wildlife spotting, including seals that are often seen along this part of the coastline.
18. Lizard Point
The southernmost point of mainland Britain, Lizard Point is a notable geographic landmark as well as a scenic coastal location. The area features cliffs, coastal paths and historic buildings, including a lighthouse. It is less developed than some other attractions, offering a quieter setting focused on landscape rather than visitor facilities.
17. Lanhydrock House
Located near Bodmin, Lanhydrock House is a National Trust property consisting of a Victorian country house and extensive gardens. The house is furnished and open to visitors, providing insight into life during the period. The surrounding estate includes woodland walks and cycling routes, making it a broader destination beyond the house itself.
16. Trebah Garden
Trebah Garden is a large sub-tropical garden near Falmouth, known for its dense planting and sheltered valley setting leading down to a private beach. The garden features a range of exotic plants that thrive in Cornwall’s mild climate. It offers a contrast to the county’s coastal attractions, focusing more on landscape design and plant collections.
15. Lost Gardens of Heligan
Located near Mevagissey, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are a restored historic garden that had fallen into neglect before being rediscovered and developed into a visitor attraction. The site includes a range of garden areas, woodland and sculptures, with a focus on both restoration and natural growth. It is one of the more established garden attractions in Cornwall.
14. St Ives Harbour
The harbour at St Ives forms the centre of the town and is one of its most recognisable features. It provides a focal point for visitors, with boats, surrounding buildings and nearby beaches creating a compact and accessible setting. The harbour area connects directly to several beaches and the town centre, making it a key part of the overall experience.
13. Tintagel Castle
Situated on the north coast, Tintagel Castle is a historic site associated with the legend of King Arthur. The remains are spread across a headland and connected by a modern footbridge, offering views of the surrounding coastline. The site combines historical interest with a dramatic setting, making it one of the more distinctive attractions in Cornwall.
12. Minack Theatre
The Minack Theatre is an open-air theatre built into the cliffs above Porthcurno Beach. It hosts performances throughout the season and is also open to visitors outside performance times. The setting, overlooking the sea, is a key part of its appeal, combining cultural interest with one of the most striking coastal locations in Cornwall.
11. Eden Project
Located near St Austell, the Eden Project is one of Cornwall’s most visited attractions. It consists of large biomes housing different climate environments, including tropical and Mediterranean plants. The site combines education, conservation and visitor facilities, offering a different experience from the county’s coastal and historic attractions.
10. Fistral Beach (Newquay)
One of the most well-known beaches in Cornwall, Fistral Beach is closely associated with surfing and coastal activity. Located in Newquay, it attracts visitors throughout the year due to its consistent waves and developed facilities. While primarily a beach, its reputation and accessibility make it a key attraction within the county.
9. Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno Beach is a small sandy cove on the far west coast, known for its clear water and steep cliffs. It is located near the Minack Theatre, and the combination of landscape and nearby attractions makes it one of the more visited coastal locations. The beach is accessible via a short walk and is particularly notable at low tide.
8. Padstow Harbour
Padstow Harbour is a central feature of the town of Padstow and forms the main focal point for visitors. The harbour is lined with restaurants, shops and working boats, creating a busy but compact environment. It serves as a base for exploring the surrounding coastline and is closely linked with the town’s reputation as a food destination.
7. St Michael’s Mount
Located off the coast near Marazion, St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island with a historic castle and church. It can be reached by a causeway at low tide or by boat at high tide. The site combines historical, architectural and landscape interest, making it one of the most distinctive attractions in Cornwall.
6. Porthminster Beach (St Ives)
Porthminster Beach is one of the main beaches in St Ives and is known for its sheltered setting and proximity to the town centre. It offers views across St Ives Bay and is easily accessible from the railway station. Its combination of location, facilities and relatively calm conditions makes it one of the more popular beaches in Cornwall.
5. Land’s End
Land’s End is the westernmost point of mainland England and one of the most recognised locations in Cornwall. It features dramatic coastal cliffs and views across the Atlantic, with a visitor centre and facilities nearby. While developed for tourism, the main interest lies in the landscape and its status as a geographic landmark.
4. St Ives Town and Beaches
St Ives is one of the most popular destinations in Cornwall, combining a harbour, multiple sandy beaches and a strong cultural identity. The town’s compact layout allows easy access between beaches such as Porthminster and Porthmeor, along with galleries and coastal walks. Its overall setting makes it one of the most complete visitor destinations in the county.
3. Kynance Cove
Located on the Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove is one of the most distinctive coastal locations in Cornwall. It features white sand, clear water and unusual rock formations, including stacks and caves visible at low tide. The cove is accessed via a walk from the cliff-top and is best visited when the tide is low.
2. Tintagel and Tintagel Castle
Tintagel combines a village setting with one of Cornwall’s most significant historic sites. Tintagel Castle is located on a headland and is associated with the legend of King Arthur. The site includes dramatic coastal scenery, a modern footbridge and walking routes, making it both a historical and landscape attraction.
1. St Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s Mount is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cornwall, located on a tidal island near Marazion. It features a historic castle and church, with access via a causeway at low tide or by boat when the tide is high. The combination of setting, history and accessibility makes it one of the most distinctive attractions in the region.