Destinations  Featured Destinations  Newquay

Seaside and Countryside in One Place

This former fishing port has been popular with holidaymakers for well over a century now and it remains the ideal Cornish base from which to explore – full of life and character but within easy reach of the tranquil countryside and its pretty hamlets. The resort's nine beaches have always been its biggest selling point but that doesn't mean Newquay is not worth visiting outside of the busy summer season. In fact, when the masses go home for another year and autumn beckons, this seaside town becomes the ideal location for a relaxed break by the sea.

Newquay in Autumn

There's nothing like a walk along the coast on a crisp autumnal day, with only the sound of the waves for company. There are plenty of beautiful walks to try out here, from the easy terrain of the beaches to more adventurous clifftop hikes. However, there's also plenty to enjoy under cover on a rainy day, including nearby art galleries, museums and National Trust properties.

During the colder months, when the resort is returned to the locals until next August, Newquay is at its most intimate and friendly. If you really want to blend in (and you're feeling brave), you'll still find the most diehard surfers out beyond the breakers, whatever the weather. But if that sounds a bit too taxing, there are plenty of seaside cafes providing the perfect vantage point from which to admire their moves.

Where to Explore Nearby

A short drive from Newquay is charming St Ives, a fishing port that manages to combine an unspoilt, old-fashioned air with the sort of sophisticated restaurants and shops usually found somewhere much larger. St Ives is home to the Cornish branch of the Tate Gallery, and is full of art celebrating the gorgeous bays, cliffs and cottages of the surrounding area.

The city of Truro is another easy day's excursion from Newquay. Awarded city status thanks to its spectacular gothic cathedral, this handsome place is also home to the Royal Cornwall Museum. Lose yourself here for a few hours to learn about Cornwall's natural history, industrial past and the art that both have inspired.

Also nearby is Falmouth, a charming seaside town with a deep, sheltered harbour and the imposing Pendennis Castle. This mighty fortress has witnessed centuries of conflict and was one of the last royalist strongholds to fall during the English Civil War.

5 things you shouldn't miss

• Trerice is a fantastic National Trust property close by. This Elizabethan manor house has remained unchanged and is surrounded by tranquil grounds that make a pleasant walk. During the autumn and winter, both house and gardens are open on Friday to Sunday.


• Newquay Zoo is based in the heart of Trenance Leisure Park and surrounded by thirteen acres of sub-tropical gardens complete with a lake. With 130 species to see and many local and overseas conservation projects to learn about, this makes a great day out.


• Staying with the nature theme, the Blue Reef Aquarium is an excellent place to visit on a cloudy day. Along with numerous local species, you'll find seahorses and sharks viewed through an underwater tunnel.


• East meets the West at the in the picturesque village of St Mawgan at the Japanese and Bonsai Nursery. Open all year round, this interesting collection of bonsai is a tranquil haven for gardening enthusiasts.


• Finally, a walk along famous Fistral Beach is an essential part of any break in Newquay.

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