Top 12 must-see attractions in Port Isaac
Nestled on the shores of North Cornwall, Port Isaac is a quaint fishing village with a rich cultural history that...
by Justine King / Things To Do
Discover stunning moorland, dramatic coastlines and turquoise seas with our list of the best things to do in North Cornwall.
From coasteering and surfing, to fine dining and steam railways, we’ve thought of plenty of North Cornwall activities to add to your holiday itinerary. Whether you’re visiting with your family, have your dog in tow, or are just looking for a break with your significant other, you’ll find a little something to suit everyone.
Read on to discover the best things to do in North Cornwall…
The Camel Trail is an 18-mile surfaced and virtually level multi-use trail that passes through some of the most beautiful countryside in the South West. The trail follows the Camel Estuary along a disused railway line from Padstow to Wadebridge, before joining the route through the wooded Camel Valley to Bodmin.
This beloved trail is perfect for cycling, walking, and running, regardless of your experience level. Haven’t brought your bikes with you? There are plenty of places in Wenfordbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge, or Padstow where you can hire them just for the trail. For example, Bridge Bike Hire in Wadebridge has over 40 years’ experience in hiring out a host of bicycle options.
Discover the magnificent sea stacks known as Bedruthan Steps. Although the steps down to Bedruthan Beach are no longer accessible, it’s still a wonderful place to visit, offering clifftop coastal views and stunning walks.
These rocks are one of North Cornwall’s most photographed settings and, in our opinion, are best viewed during a mid to low tide. Come nightfall, these inky-black shadows make the perfect backdrop for a spot of star gazing, where on a clear night at the right time of year, you may even spot the Milky Way.
Set in the heart of North Cornwall is the amazing Lappa Valley Steam Railway. It’s the only attraction in Cornwall that transports families on a nostalgic journey into a secret world of traditional fun and family adventures.
Hop on board the Duke of Cornwall from Carlyon Bay and follow the bends of the Lappa River to the East Wheal Rose. This family attraction allows little ones the thrills of trains and boats, as well as a chance to explore nature, let off steam in outdoor play areas, and refuel in the comfort of The Engine Room or The Crib Hut.
Set high on the headland between Padstow and Bude, are the ancient ruins of Tintagel Castle. This English Heritage site is steeped in history, myth, and stunning scenery. Take a journey back in time to learn about this royal stronghold and thriving seaport.
Immerse yourself in the folklore of King Arthur by following the stone compass and read about how history became a legend on the story stones. Discover the Dark Age settlement where Cornwall’s very first Kings governed their realms, before descending to the beach on the ebbing tide to explore Merlin’s Cave.
Lanhydrock House is one of Cornwall’s finest country estates, offering a glimpse into opulent Victorian life. Rebuilt in grand high-Victorian style after a fire in 1881, the house is filled with period detail, showcasing the era’s latest innovations and the classic ‘upstairs downstairs’ dynamic.
Outside, the estate is just as impressive. Wander through formal gardens, woodland glades and riverside trails, or hire bikes to explore family-friendly cycle routes. This is the kind of place where an afternoon can easily slip away.
When looking for things to do in North Cornwall, nothing beats a good day out at the zoo. Head to Newquay Zoo for a fun-filled day out for all ages. With over 1,000 rare and endangered animals set within 13 acres of tropical gardens, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
From lions and sloths to meerkats and monkeys, there’s something to captivate every visitor as you wander the leafy trails and learn about the world’s most fascinating creatures. Kids can burn off extra energy on the Tarzan Trail, in the play area, or while navigating the Dragon maze. It’s an exciting, educational, and family-friendly experience in the heart of North Cornwall.
If you want the opportunity to come face-to-face with ocean creatures in their natural habitat without getting wet, Newquay’s Blue Reef Aquarium is the place to go. Here you’ll discover freshwater turtles, pufferfish, caiman crocodiles, octopuses, angelfish, sharks, rays, moray eels, and so much more.
Considered to be one of North Cornwall’s most popular attractions, you’ll learn how these ocean creatures survive and hunt, what they eat, and how they fit into our ecosystem. Fill your heads with wonder and be fascinated by the giant Pacific octopus, which can change its colour and skin pattern to mimic its surroundings.
Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow
Synonymous with seafood-loving chef Rick Stein, the pretty seaside town of Padstow offers up a culinary delight for all the senses. From fish and chip takeaways to Michelin-starred dining, there’s something for even the fussiest of eaters.
Want to splash out? Then head to Paul Ainsworth’s No.6 restaurant. Fancy a good old-fashioned award-winning burger? Try out Burgers and Fish. Sample a taste of the Mediterranean at Caffè Rojano by Paul Ainsworth, or grab coffee and a slice of cake at Ben’s Crib Box Cafe.
For more culinary delights, check out our blog on the best restaurants in North Cornwall, Polzeath restaurants, or Port Isaac restaurants.
A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bodmin Moor is one of the West Country’s most cherished uplands. Moorland ponies roam free, ancient tracks crisscross the Cornish wilderness, and hill passes trace the foothills of remote granite tors.
This North Cornwall attraction offers endless circular walks, Bronze Age hut circles, the remains of a medieval chapel, and the infamous Bodmin Jail. It’s the perfect place to hike grand tors and marvel at views of Cornwall, from Looe to Tintagel.
If you’re looking for things to do in North Cornwall that are a little more unique, jump aboard with the team at Wavehunters for a boat trip to remember. Discover a wealth of sea life in its natural habitat whilst enjoying the thrill of a high-speed boat ride. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, sunfish, and puffins.
Padstow Sealife Safaris also offers unique trips to see some of Cornwall’s marine life. With tours ranging from 1 to 2 hours, you’re likely to see plenty of creatures, big and small.
If you’re looking for adventure and exercise in beautiful, peaceful surroundings, Cardinham Woods is the perfect location for you. Discover a diverse woodland filled with secret glades, allowing you to take a step back from the stresses and worries of everyday life.
Allow the stream-side paths, fresh air, and stunning viewpoints to relax and recharge you. Enjoy a bite to eat at the beautiful Woods Cafe, and for those with mobility issues, you can hire a Tramper to aid you in exploring these lovely trails.
With Newquay’s Fistral Beach at its heart, the North Cornwall coastline is a world-renowned surfing hotspot. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro surfer, there are plenty of beaches worth visiting.
Polzeath Beach, Harlyn Bay, Summerleaze Beach and Widemouth Bay all offer great surf and swimming fun. If you’re wanting to learn, there are lots of excellent surf schools all along the North coast.
Check out Surfing England to find a surf school near your North Cornwall accommodation. Read our blog for a full list of the best beaches in North Cornwall.
Harlyn Dive School in Rock offers unforgettable underwater adventures for both beginners and experienced divers. Their qualified instructors provide everything from Discover Scuba Diving sessions (for ages 10+) to guided dives and equipment hire.
Explore some of North Cornwall’s best dive sites and, if you’re lucky, spot seals, dolphins, lobsters, and more. It’s a unique way to experience the coast and create lasting memories.
From high-octane swimming to exploring historic caves, coasteering along Cornwall’s North Coast offers an exciting yet safe experience for everyone. On your coasteering adventure, you can swim in stunning lagoons, play in natural whirlpools, climb overhanging rock faces, and jump 30ft into deep blue water.
These companies all offer coasteering experiences in Cornwall:
Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual walker, the South West Coast Path in North Cornwall has a range of breathtaking walks to get you out and about. This stretch of Cornwall’s coast makes up a popular portion of the 630 mile route, with some of the region’s best scenery!
Find our favourite Coast Path routes in North Cornwall below:
For more great trails in the area, read our blog on North Cornwall walking routes.
Discover a wide selection of holiday cottages along the North Cornwall Coast just for you. Here at John Bray Cornish Holidays, we have a collection of 250 self-catering cottages stretching from Rock to Port Isaac. No matter your holiday accommodation needs, we’ve got you covered.
From luxury coastal cottages with jaw-dropping views to cosy dog-friendly cottages with wood-burning stoves, we have a wide range of properties to suit everyone.
Whether you require larger properties for groups of people, holiday cottages with hot tubs, or a romantic retreat with a swimming pool, we’re here to help you have the best holiday possible.
Without a doubt, North Cornwall is absolutely worth visiting. This stunning region is known for its dramatic coastline, golden beaches, and charming towns. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, food, or history, there’s something here for everyone. It’s a favourite for outdoor lovers and those looking to experience Cornwall’s wilder, more rugged side.
There are plenty of fantastic places to visit in North Cornwall, but our top picks include:
Come rain or shine, there are plenty of local attractions to visit in North Cornwall. Here’s a short list of our favourites:
Rock is one of Cornwall’s most popular destinations, with plenty to do on your doorstep and even more in the local area. Our picks for the best things to do in Rock include:
North Cornwall makes a perfect destination for a grown-up getaway, whether that’s a romantic break or just a day without the kids. Here are some of our favourite things to do in North Cornwall for adults:
Famous as one of Cornwall’s most picturesque villages, and the filming location for ITV’s Doc Martin, Port Isaac is definitely worth visiting! It’s a quintessentially Cornish village to explore, with winding, whitewashed streets and a quaint harbour.
It’s also a perfect foodie destination with two Michelin-starred restaurants, Outlaw’s New Road and Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, both run by notorious chef Nathan Outlaw. If you fancy walking off your seafood, there are some excellent walks on the South West Coast Path nearby, with dramatic cliffs and stunning hidden coves.
For local things to do, read our blog on the top attractions in Port Isaac. For more foodie tips, check out our list of Port Isaac Restaurants and Cafes.
by Justine King / Things To Do
I’m Justine, a Freelance Travel Writer with over 4 years’ experience writing about UK travel. I’ve lived in the South West f...
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