9 Best Things To Do In Newquay, Cornwall (UK)

Are you looking for the best things to do in Newquay, Cornwall in the UK? I have been to Newquay, Cornwall a number of times with my family and friends. We always love the nature and relaxed beach vibes of this capital Cornish town.

I also wrote another article about Best Things to do in Cornwall (UK). I’m sure it will give you a lovely glimpse of this beautiful English county has to offer.

Newquay is a Cornish town known for its sandy beaches, vibrant surf scene, and rich history. There’s something for everyone here, with a unique blend of natural beauty, charming local attractions, and exciting activities. In this blog, you will learn the best things to do in Newquay, including the must-see spots and hidden gems that make this town a perfect getaway for travelers of all ages and interests. Read on and be captivated by this town.

Read more: 4 Ways How to Get from London to Newquay (Cornwall, UK)

Best Things to Do in Newquay, Cornwall (UK)

1. Enjoy Newquay Beaches

One of the main attractions of Newquay, Cornwall, is its stunning coastline, with a variety of beautiful beaches to choose from. Whether you’re a surfer or a regular traveler looking for a relaxing spot, Newquay has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the beaches that you can try.

Towan Beach

Towan Beach is a popular choice among tourists and locals, partly thanks to its central location and the nearby Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay. The beach is also home to The Island House Bridge, a footbridge that connects a small island to the mainland. This provides a stunning photo background and a perfect vantage point for viewing.

Little Fistral Beach

Located between the Fistral Beach and Towan Headland, Little Fistral Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil experience. This hidden gem is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.

Great Western Beach

Just a short walk from Newquay town center, Great Western Beach offers a sheltered spot for families and beachgoers looking for a relaxed day on the sand. Its gentle waves and convenient facilities make it a favorite among visitors and locals.

Tolcarne Beach

Tolcarne Beach, with its golden sands and impressive cliffs, offers a breathtaking setting for a day at the seaside. The beach is well-suited for surfing and other water sports, making it a popular destination for those looking to ride the waves.

Newquay Beach

Newquay Beach is also known as Lusty Glaze Beach. It is a privately-owned beach with a unique horseshoe-shaped cove. This spot boasts a range of activities, from adventure sports to leisurely beachside dining, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Porth Beach

With its expansive sands and shallow waters, Porth Beach is an ideal spot for families with young children. The beach is dog-friendly during specific periods of the year, making it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a day by the sea with their furry friends.

2. Have fun with different water sports

As mentioned, Newquay, Cornwall, is known for its breathtaking beaches. With that, it is just fitting that it has a wide range of water sports available to visitors, especially with the Atlantic Ocean on its doorstep. Here are some water activities that you can try.

Surfing

As the unofficial surf capital of the UK, Newquay is a must-visit destination for wave riders of all skill levels. With numerous surf schools and equipment rental shops available, there’s no excuse not to try this exhilarating sport. Beginners can find friendly conditions at Towan Beach or Great Western Beach, while experienced surfers can tackle the famous waves at Fistral Beach.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Stand-up paddleboarding is an excellent option for a more laid-back water sport. This low-impact activity allows you to glide across the water while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. Many local operators offer SUP lessons and equipment rentals, making it easy to explore Newquay’s calm bays and hidden coves at your own pace.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Newquay’s diverse coastline offers a variety of opportunities for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. You can explore hidden caves, secluded beaches, and dramatic cliffs as you paddle along the shoreline. If you’re new to the sport, guided tours are available to help you navigate the waters safely while discovering some of the area’s hidden gems.

Coasteering

If you’re craving an adrenaline-pumping adventure, coasteering might be just the ticket. This activity actually combines swimming, climbing, and cliff jumping to provide an unforgettable coastal experience. Guided coasteering tours are also available for various skill levels, allowing you to safely explore Newquay’s rugged coastline while getting up close and personal with its diverse marine life.

Kiteboarding

Take advantage of Newquay’s consistent wind conditions by trying your hand at kiteboarding. This thrilling sport combines windsurfing, surfing, and wakeboarding, creating an exhilarating experience that will have you soaring above the waves. Local schools offer beginner kiteboarding lessons, ensuring you can enjoy this exciting activity safely.

3. Go shopping at the High Street

Newquay, Cornwall isn’t just about beautiful beaches and thrilling water sports; the town also offers a delightful shopping experience for visitors. Newquay High Street, located in the city’s heart, is an ideal destination for those seeking retail therapy. Here are some shops that you may see on Newquay High Street!

Charity Shops

Charity shops are one of the main shops in any UK high street. You can find a few of them on Newquay high street selling bric-a-brac, pre-loved clothings, furniture and all sort of things. Charity shops are the perfect place to hunt for great bargains.

Independent Shops

One of the charms of Newquay High Street is the abundance of independent shops that line its streets. These local businesses offer unique products, from handmade crafts and artwork to locally-sourced foods and beverages. By shopping at these establishments, you are actually supporting the local economy while discovering one-of-a-kind items to take home as souvenirs.

Surf Shops

Given Newquay’s reputation as a surfers’ paradise, it’s no surprise that the High Street boasts several surf shops where you can find everything you need for your next wave-riding adventure.

Fashion Boutiques

Newquay High Street is also home to various fashion boutiques, offering diverse clothing and accessories to suit different tastes and budgets. From chic designer labels to affordable high-street brands, you will find the perfect outfit for any occasion.

Cafes and Restaurants

Shopping can be tiring, so it’s good that Newquay High Street has numerous cafes and restaurants where you can refuel and recharge. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee, a leisurely lunch, or a sweet treat, there’s a dining option to suit your taste buds.

Souvenir Shops

A trip to Newquay would only be complete with picking up a few souvenirs to remember your visit. Newquay High Street offers a selection of souvenir shops where you can find everything from postcards and keychains to Cornish delicacies and traditional handicrafts.

4. Newquay Zoo

Newquay Zoo, located within Trenance Leisure Park, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled day discovering fascinating wildlife. Newquay Zoo provides a unique opportunity to see various creatures up close. From big cats like lions and fishing cats to playful primates, vibrant birds, and slithering reptiles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Newquay Zoo is committed to conservation efforts and raising awareness about protecting wildlife and their habitats. Through various interactive exhibits, educational talks, and engaging events, the zoo provides visitors with a better understanding of the challenges faced by the animals and the role we can play in their preservation. For a truly unforgettable experience, Newquay Zoo offers the opportunity to get even closer to the animals through its keeper experiences and animal encounters.

Newquay Zoo is designed with families in mind, offering a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The zoo features accessible paths, baby-changing facilities, and various food and drink options. The Dragon Maze, an outdoor play area, provides a fun space for children to burn off some energy between exploring the different animal exhibits.

Throughout the year, Newquay Zoo hosts various special events and activities, including seasonal celebrations, themed days, and conservation-focused programs. These events enhance your visit and provide additional learning opportunities about the animals and the zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts.

5. Headland

Another must-see attraction while visiting Newquay, Cornwall, is the Headland. This is a coastal area that offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely walk or relaxation. Listed below are some of the things you will see and you may do in Headland.

The Headland’s elevated position provides visitors with panoramic ocean and coastline views. From here, you can take in the sights of the gorgeous beaches, towering cliffs, and the azure waters of the Atlantic. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and those who appreciate the beauty of nature.

The Headland is steeped in history, with several notable landmarks adding charm. The most famous is the Headland Hotel, an imposing Victorian-era building that has graced the landscape since 1900. The hotel has hosted many famous guests and is now an iconic symbol of Newquay’s rich heritage.

The Headland is crisscrossed by a network of footpaths, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. The trails range from easy, level paths to more challenging routes that will take you along the cliffs, offering different perspectives of the dramatic coastline. There are also plenty of spots to sit and take in the views, making it a great place to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of Newquay.

The Headland is home to abundant wildlife, including various seabird species that nest on the cliffs. During your visit, you might also be fortunate enough to see seals or dolphins playing in the waters below. Remember to bring binoculars for a closer look at these beautiful creatures.

6. Trerice

Trerice is a hidden gem that offers a delightful escape from the coastal town’s lively atmosphere. It is a beautifully preserved Elizabethan manor house that is surrounded by tranquil gardens and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s past. Here are some of the things you will see here.

The Elizabethan Manor House: The centerpiece of Trerice is the manor house, which dates back to the 16th century. As you step inside, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, with the well-preserved interiors showcasing the opulence and elegance of the Elizabethan period. You may take a guided tour to learn about the house’s fascinating history and its residents or wander the rooms at your own pace to admire the intricate plasterwork ceilings, antique furnishings, and impressive art collection.

Tranquil Gardens: The grounds of Trerice are home to various gardens, providing an oasis perfect for a stroll. Admire the colorful herbaceous borders, explore the intricate knot garden, and take in the scents of the fragrant rose garden. There’s also a traditional orchard, home to many apples and other fruit trees, and a vegetable garden, showcasing the importance of self-sufficiency during the manor’s early days.

Family-Friendly Activities: Trerice offers plenty of activities to entertain visitors of all ages. Children will love the chance to try their hand at traditional games in the barn, such as skittles and quoits, while the whole family can enjoy a game of Kayling (Cornish skittles) in the garden. Throughout the year, Trerice also hosts various events and workshops, from historical re-enactments to gardening masterclasses, ensuring there’s always something new to experience.

The Barn Restaurant: After exploring the manor house and gardens, stop by the Barn Restaurant for a meal or a traditional cream tea. Housed in a converted barn, the restaurant offers a range of tasty dishes made using locally sourced ingredients and a selection of cakes and pastries that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

The Shop and Plant Sales: Before leaving Trerice, you must visit the Shop and Plant Sales. Here, you can find various unique gifts, souvenirs, and local produce to take home. For gardening enthusiasts, there’s also the opportunity to purchase plants propagated from the gardens, allowing you to take a piece of Trerice home.

7. Holywell

Just a short drive from Newquay, you’ll find Holywell. It is another breathtaking location that boasts stunning coastal scenery and fascinating history. Holywell is the perfect spot if you are a nature lover and a beach enthusiast. Here are some attractions that you might find interesting:

The Beautiful Beach: Holywell Bay is the main attraction, offering a vast expanse of golden sand backed by impressive dunes. The beach is perfect for families, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe environment for swimming and paddling. If you’re a surfing enthusiast, you’ll find consistent waves suitable for beginners and experienced surfers.

Coastal Walks: Holywell provides an excellent starting point for exploring the stunning coastal paths that wind along the Cornish coast. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside and the chance to spot various local wildlife. The walk to the nearby village of Crantock takes you past the iconic Gull Rocks, providing a fantastic photo opportunity.

Holywell Cave and Holy Well: A visit to Holywell Cave is necessary at low tide. This hidden gem features a unique calcite-covered well, and it is believed to have been a pilgrimage site in medieval times due to its reputed healing properties. When you are here, you should take a moment to admire the striking natural formations and the clear spring water that flows through the cave.

Filming Location for House of Dragon: Holywell gained even more popularity when it was chosen as one of the filming locations for the much-anticipated series House of Dragon, a prequel to the viral Game of Thrones. The landscape and dramatic coastline provided the perfect backdrop for the fantasy series, drawing fans from all over the world to experience the magic of the location.

8. Try Cornish Food

One of the best ways to truly experience the culture of a place is to taste its local cuisine. Cornwall is no exception. It has a range of delectable dishes that are as unique and delightful as the region. Here are three cuisines that you must try.

Cornish Pasty

Perhaps the most famous of all Cornish dishes, the Cornish pasty is a traditional savory pastry filled with a hearty mix of beef, potatoes, swede (rutabaga), and onions. With a history dating back hundreds of years, the pasty was initially a practical and portable meal for Cornish miners.

Today, it’s a delicious and satisfying treat you can enjoy, hot or cold, from local bakeries and food stalls. The golden, flaky pastry and rich, flavorful filling make this a must-try dish for any visitor to Newquay.

Cornish Fudge

Cornish fudge is an absolute delight for sweet tooth lovers. Made using local ingredients like Cornish clotted cream, this melt-in-your-mouth confectionery treat is available in various flavors, from classic vanilla to more adventurous options like sea salt or gin and tonic. Visit one of Newquay’s many fudge shops to sample their mouthwatering selections, and remember to bring some home as a delicious souvenir for friends and family.

Fish and Chips

Being a coastal town, Newquay boasts some of the country’s freshest and most delicious seafood. One quintessential British dish you cannot miss while in Cornwall is fish and chips. Made from locally caught fish, such as cod or haddock, coated in a crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection, fish and chips is a real comfort food.

Paired with thick-cut chips (fries) and an optional side of mushy peas, this classic dish can be enjoyed at a traditional chippy or one of Newquay’s many seafood restaurants. For an authentic experience, enjoy your fish and chips by the seaside, taking in the stunning coastal views.

9. Scenic Train journey

In addition to its stunning beaches, rich history, and delicious local cuisine, Newquay offers visitors a unique way to take in the beauty of Cornwall: a scenic train journey. This memorable experience is enjoyable for train enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the breathtaking Cornish landscapes from a different perspective.

One of the popular scenic route is the Newquay to St. Ives. This will take you to along the rugged coastline of Cornwall and end up in the beautiful coast town of St. Ives, south of Newquay. If you are interested to know more about St. Ives, I wrote another blog post about the Best Things to Do in St. Ives, Cornwall (UK).

The Newquay to Par Line, the Atlantic Coast Line, is perfect for a scenic train journey. Operated by Great Western Railway, this picturesque route stretches approximately 20 miles between Newquay and the nearby town of Par. The journey takes around 50 minutes, allowing ample time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the incredible views of Cornwall’s rugged coastline, rolling countryside, and charming villages.

As you go on your journey, you’ll pass through various landscapes, each offering a unique charm. The route begins in Newquay, with views of the town’s stunning coastline and sandy beaches. As you continue, you’ll travel through the beautiful countryside and grand rural landscapes, with occasional glimpses of the dramatic sea cliffs and stunning coastlines. The train also crosses the Goss Moor, a protected nature reserve home to diverse wildlife and plant species.

Upon reaching the quaint town of Par, you’ll find a station steeped in history. If you have time, consider exploring the city before returning to Newquay, as Par offers a range of attractions, including the nearby Eden Project, the largest indoor rainforest in the world.

The scenic train journey is a fantastic way to see the sights of Cornwall and an excellent opportunity to relax and unwind as you enjoy the tranquil, unhurried pace of the trip. With comfortable seating and large windows, you’ll have a front-row seat to the breathtaking scenery that makes Cornwall a sought-after destination. This is also the perfect way to end your trip.

I hope that these best things to do in Newquay, Cornwall inspired you to explore more of this Cornish town.