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Autumn in Cornwall – for coastal walks and surfing

Cornwall is a popular choice with travellers during summer months. However, the characteristically mild period of autumn is also a fantastic time to visit the county. In fact, for those who know this part of the world well, it‘s often the preferred time to visit.

There is simply something about autumn in Cornwall that can’t be beaten. The colours are spectacular, the sea is at its warmest and our favourite bit – you don’t have to battle with the crowds. So as Cornwall prepares for autumn, here we share with you a selection of our favourite things to do and see there:

Autumn inCornwall

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Take a Coastal Walk

With fascinating mining landscapes and dramatic sea views, walking the coast path in Cornwall is a treat which is hard to equal. We especially enjoy the stretch between Hayle point and Godrevy Lighthouse.

Here it’s possible to walk on dunes and long stretches of sand and scramble along those characteristic craggy granite cliffs. The views across St Ives bay are ever changing and dramatic. Godrevy Cafe beach cafe makes a wonderful spot to stop for a warming hot chocolate afterwards.

Spectacular views towards Godrevy Lighthouse Photo: Tim Green on Flickr
Spectacular views towards Godrevy Lighthouse

Catch some Waves

Autumn is famously the time when Cornwall gets the best ‘swell’ and the waves are much less crowded than during the summer months. In fact whether you’re a complete beginner or an absolute pro you will be able to find some surf at the perfect size for your ability. Even if the weather looks less inviting we encourage you to give it a go.

The sea has had all summer to warm up. With a decent wet suit you’ll be able to splash around for hours without even thinking of catching a chill. If you don’t fancy surfing though you could try a spot of wild swimming and still get that wonderful refreshing feeling. Enjoy your tingly skin and salt in your hair.

Surfers enjoy the Autumn Swell Photo: Dave Hamster on Flickr
Surfers enjoy the Autumn Swell

Explore Cornwall’s Thriving Art Scene

Cornwall has long been a haven for artists and as such is home to a cluster of very good Art galleries and museums. The Tate St Ives is probably Cornwall’s best known gallery. Look for the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, also found in St Ives, which is exceptional too.

The Newlyn Art Gallery features an interesting range of changing contemporary exhibitions. The Falmouth Art Gallery houses a range of stunning works on oil, paper and beyond. Visiting any of these galleries is a smart move if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Again, you can enjoy them at this time of year without the crowds of summer.

The Tate St Ives which overlooks lovely Porthmeor beach Photo: Martin Pettitt on Flickr
The Tate St Ives which overlooks lovely Porthmeor beach

Look for Whales Basking Sharks and Dolphins

One of our favourite things about Cornwall is how wild it is and what better way to pay testament to that than by getting out on the water to spot some of the creatures that live there. Many wonderful species of animals live in the water off the coast of Cornwall and there are a range of reputable companies that will take you to spot them.

Of course, as they are wild animals nothing is guaranteed, but we think this rather adds to the adventure. When you do catch sight of a breaching porpoise, the peculiar looking sunfish, or encounter a majestic basking shark it makes the experience all the more memorable.

A dip with a majestic basking shark of the coast of Cornwall Photo: Candiche on Flickr
A dip with a majestic basking shark of the coast of Cornwall

For more fun things to do and places to stay in Cornwall read about the quirky, luxury Talland Bay Hotel

See a Show at the Hall for Cornwall

When you’re looking for some evening entertainment the Hall for Cornwall in Truro will provide just the solution. They have everything there from ballet and contemporary Dance, to live music, theatre and comedy. The Theatre is a real beacon on the Cornish arts scene and provides entertainment at a level that can rival that which you will find in any other British City.

Where to stay in Cornwall

Finding somewhere to stay is never a problem as there are a whole range of options to suit every budget, from convenient campsites at Newquay, to lovely holiday cottages in Falmouth, great B&B’s in St Ives and smart hotels at Mawgan Porth. The good news is that autumn often means reduced rates too as the peak period has passed.

Talland Bay Hotel in Cornwall Photo Heatheronhertravels.com

Book your stay at the luxurious Talland Bay Hotel in Cornwall

Autumn is a magical time to enjoy the county, so come and explore Cornwall away from the crowds and see what all the fuss is about.

Rough Guide Devon Cornwall

Need a guidebook for Devon? We recommend the Rough Guide to Devon and Cornwall

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More things to see in Devon and Cornwall

Cliff walks and country houses – in Cornwall (and a bit of Devon)
A visit to Padstow and a walk through the dunes to St Enodoc

Photo Credits: Godrevey Lighthouse by Tim Green, Surfers by Dave Hamster, The Tate St Ives by Martin Pettitt, Basking shark by Candiche.

This article is brought* to you by Country View Cottages providers of Luxury Holiday Cottages in Cornwall.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Your St Ives

Wednesday 30th of October 2013

Wow what a snap of the shark it is huge! September is a lovely time to come to St Ives when the festival is on, it also isn't as busy as the kids are back.

Heather Cowper

Wednesday 30th of October 2013

@Your St Ives I love visiting Cornwall out of season - as you say, you can enjoy without the August crowds

Kathryn Burrington

Tuesday 29th of October 2013

That basking shark shot is amazing! I'd go there just for that.

Heather Cowper

Tuesday 29th of October 2013

@Kat yes, I can't say I've ever seen a basking shark when I was in Cornwall but we've enjoyed all the other stuff

Barbara Weibel

Tuesday 29th of October 2013

Added them all to my list!