Setting off on our first-ever trip to Cornwall, we were brimming with excitement. It’s somewhere I have wanted to visit for years. With just three days to soak up as much of this coastal paradise as possible, we vowed to take things slow and savour every moment.
Note: We visited in early September, it was a child-free, mum & daughter trip, which may be worth bearing in mind when reading as we didn’t have to account for the ‘I’m bored!’ statements every 5 minutes and we weren’t looking for sandcastle-worthy beaches either.
Day 1: Falmouth and St Ives
We arrived at around lunchtime. Our journey kicked off in Falmouth, a charming maritime town that immediately gave us the feel of Cornwall, with its laid-back vibe. We took our time strolling along the waterfront, admiring the bobbing boats and eating fish and chips by the harbour. The National Maritime Museum Cornwall beckoned, and we happily whiled away the hours exploring its exhibits and learning about the region’s seafaring past.
After our late lunch, we hit the road again, bound for St. Ives. The drive was just under an hour and was a scenic delight, with breathtaking views of the coastline around every bend. In busy St. Ives, we embraced the town’s artistic spirit, popping into galleries and soaking up the creative energy. It felt a little lacking for us, and I can’t put my finger on why, but we left feeling a little underwhelmed.
As the sun dipped low, we found ourselves overlooking the sea, watching the waves roll in and feeling a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life before heading back to our apartment for a good nights sleep.
Day 2: Marazion, Mousehole, Sennen Cove & Lands End
With no need to rush, we set out on day two ready to explore at our own pace. We decided to follow the coastline, ticking off anywhere we wanted to explore on the way.
After a 45 minute drive, Marazion greeted us with the majestic sight of St. Michael’s Mount rising from the sea—a picture-perfect introduction to Cornwall’s beauty. We wandered the island, losing ourselves in its history and marvelling at the views across the bay. The weather was stunning, and we found ourselves wishing we had packed our costumes so we could have enjoyed a cooling dip in the beautiful clear waters.
Just 10 miles away, our next stop was Mousehole, where time seemed to slow to a crawl as we meandered through the village’s winding streets. We feasted on beautiful cornish icecream as we soaked up the salty sea air, watching locals swim in the harbour. I could have spent all day here. I can’t begin to imagine how busy this quaint village must get in the height of Summer, but we were very grateful we got to experience it out of peak season.
As the afternoon stretched lazily before us, we found ourselves at Sennen Cove, a 25 minute drive away. Where we whiled away the hours reading on the beach and dipping our toes in the surf. We enjoyed another fish and chip lunch, overlooking the bay, watching all of the surfers ride the waves before heading to our last stop of the day, Lands End.
As we arrived at Lands End, the rugged coastline and crashing waves offered a picturesque backdrop. We snapped a few obligatory photos at the Land’s End signpost, but it felt more like ticking off a box than a genuinely exciting moment. We walked up to the small shop (which disappointingly I thought was going to be a pub!) The scenery was nice, but it didn’t blow us away. We left feeling like we’d seen what there was to see and ready to head home for the night.
Day 3: Padstow, Mevagissey & Kynance Cove
On our final day in Cornwall, we embraced the unhurried pace of coastal life with open arms. We decided we wanted to visit Padstow and so made the hour long car journey to the other side of the county.
Arriving at Padstow, it was far busier than anywhere we had already been. The beauty of Padstow was undeniable, with colourful fishing boats and whitewashed cottages creating a postcard-perfect scene. Yet, the town’s popularity had brought crowds that detracted from its charm.
Despite the bustle, we managed to enjoy a traditional cornish pasty by the harbour. However, the overwhelming crowds and commercialisation left us feeling somewhat disappointed. Our visit to Padstow served as a reminder that even the most beautiful places can be tainted by the pressures of tourism. While the town’s beauty was undeniable, its popularity had dulled its shine.
Our last stop was Mevagissey, and we really did save the best until last. Definitely our favourite Cornish town by far, Mevagissey exudes a laid-back, friendly vibe that captured our hearts from the moment we arrived. The picturesque fishing village offers a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and feels a million miles away from the commercialism of Padstow and St Ives. With its colourful harbour-side cottages, winding streets, and stunning coastal views, Mevagissey is a place where time seems to slow down. From leisurely strolls along the quayside to sampling freshly caught seafood at local restaurants, every moment spent in Mevagissey is a reminder of the simple pleasures that make Cornwall so special.
We spent our last evening in Cornwall at the beautiful Kynance Cove. With a spread of snacks and drinks, we kicked back, taking in the golden hour glow and the soothing sound of waves. It was like our own private paradise—no crowds, no distractions. Just good company and the beauty of Cornwall unfolding before us. As the sky lit up with hues of orange and pink, we felt grateful for this moment of serenity in one of Cornwall’s most picturesque spots.
Leaving for home
As we reluctantly packed our bags and bid farewell to Cornwall, we knew that our memories of this magical place would stay with us forever. With its stunning scenery, relaxed pace, and warm hospitality, Cornwall had captured our hearts in just three short days—a testament to the enduring allure of England’s southwest coast.
Having explored Cornwall’s tourist hotspots, we’re itching for a different adventure next time. While Falmouth, St. Ives, and Padstow were buzzing with activity, we’re eager to uncover quieter gems. Perhaps hidden coves, lesser-known villages, or tucked-away trails await our discovery. Cornwall’s diverse landscape promises secluded beaches, rolling countryside, and quaint hamlets, all waiting to be explored. With each visit, we’ll peel back layers of Cornwall’s charm, discovering its lesser-trodden paths and embracing its tranquil corners. Our next trip will be a journey of exploration, a chance to delve deeper into Cornwall’s soul beyond the tourist crowds, finding its hidden treasures.
