Live the legends of north cornwall
Magic and mystery enswathe the legends of North Cornwall, with tales of lost swords and ferocious battles, smuggling and haunted inns centred around every settlement, point, hill and pool in our rural landscape. Incorporate one of our nearest historic sites into your morning walk or take a day trip to visit a town preserved in a bygone era. Or make use of a rainy day, and have a go on some of the oldest fairground rides in the country! The choice is yours, but whatever sparks your interest, we think that working a little history into your trip could make your experience it all the richer.
Take a few steps back in time
Tintagel Castle
Immerse yourself in history, myths and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle set high on Cornwall's rugged north coast. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle and coastline has fired the imaginations of writers, artists and even the brother of a king. What remains of the castle today are ruins, strewn across an impressive outcrop into the sea. Take a few hours to walk around, read the history, and imagine what life may have been like hundreds of years ago.
Entry is ticketed by English Heritage, and booking ahead may be necessary in busy periods.
Canal Paths & Aqueduct Trails
The canal networks in this area are vast, and many stretches of the old canals have been converted into footpaths. The Bude Canal section is still in use, and has one of only two working sea lock gates in the UK. Along other sections of the canal path, you can see many other historic features of the canals, and there is a small free museum near Tamar Lakes, with simple displays and information about the history of the canals.
If you fancy a go on the water, you can also join kayaking and canoeing sessions along the Bude section of the canal, or rent paddle boats near the library.
Penhallam Manor
The low, grass-covered ruins of Penhallam Manor are the remains of a moated 13th century manor house built by Andrew de Cardinham. Having been abandoned in the 14th century, its full medieval ground plan has survived unaltered by later building work. Penhallam Manor is managed by English Heritage.
Entry to the Manor ruins is free during daylight hours.
Learn something new when rain gets old
Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre
An all weather attraction, with a colourful collection of fairground games and rides, with educational exhibits and some charming (and some hair raising!) rides that you can have a go on! Fun for all ages, and quite good accessibility.
Booking available on their website.
Museum of Witchcraft and Magic
An eclectic collection of artefacts and information on the history of magical practice and belief systems throughout time. The museum uniquely aims to present magical practice respectfully and accurately through entertaining and educational displays. Set over 2 floors with 25 permanent displays, the museum also holds exhibitions and events on specific subjects.
To see what's on during your stay, visit their website.
Jamaica Inn Smuggling Museum
This quirky inn houses one of the best smuggling collections in the country in its Smuggling Museum. An educational film show will take you through the history of Jamaica Inn, and the myths and legends surrounding the wreckers and smugglers of Cornwall over the last 300 years, as well as the happenings at the Inn itself are presented in detailed displays of objects and constructed scenes.
The Museum is open daily from 8am-9pm, but booking ahead may be necessary if you want to have lunch in the pub while you’re there.
Day trips to historic villages
Clovelly
Clovelly village is a historic fishing village on the North Devon coast. The village has been uniquely preserved in history, with steep cobbled streets and quaint cottages and shops, leading down to a sheltered working harbour. Here you can spend a day wandering through boutique shops, with high quality handmade pottery, silk, soaps and more, and say hello to the working donkeys, before working up the appetite for an ice cream (or a pint!) at the bottom of the village. There are also some beautiful walks in the area, with the old hobby road being our favourite - this historic carriage road traverses the cliffs, giving glimpses of spectacular sea views along the way.
The village has an entrance fee to go towards maintaining and conserving the area. There is a large car park and visitors centre upon entrance.
Padstow
The historic fishing port of Padstow has seen its popularity as a tourist spot explode in recent years, due to its inherent charms. Centred around a pretty working harbour, Padstow's bustling cobbled streets are home to an eclectic mix of fisherman's cottages and merchant's houses. While you're there, try Rick Stein's award winning fish and chips, and sample locally made fudge.
You can also take a boat trip from the harbour or cycle from the start of the Camel Trail, and can even end your day at the beach.
There are ticketed car parks around the town, and most of the best streets to see are accessible and pedestrian only.
Tavistock
A bustling historic market town, Tavistock is the only town in Devon to hold world heritage status. Home to vibrant independent shops, a famous pannier market and farmer's market, Tavistock is well worth a visit if you love a quirky and heartfelt shopping experience. Tavistock also has direct access to Dartmoor, so you could combine this with a ramble on the moor. For an afternoon break, Tavistock is said to be the original home of the cream tea - so it would be rude not to stop for a scone at one of the town's lovely cafes while you're there.