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35 of the best things to do in Cornwall for couples
Cornwall is among the most romantic destinations for couples in England. With its rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches, quaint fishing villages, and abundance of cosy pubs and excellent restaurants, there are plenty of things to do in Cornwall for couples who seek an unforgettable holiday experience.
Cornwall offers endless opportunities for quality time together, regardless of your unique holiday preferences. Are you looking for adventure?
Why not explore the South West Coast Path? Are you and your partner foodies? You'll undoubtedly want to try Paul Ainsworth At No6.
Are you planning a getaway for a specific season? Why not look at the seasonal activities such as the Lost Gardens of Heligan in the summer months?
With our list of fantastic things for couples to do in Cornwall, you'll have everything you need for a splendid trip. So, get ready to find 35 of the best things to do and places to visit in Cornwall for couples!
Exploring Cornwall's Beautiful Beaches
With over 300 miles of coastline, Cornwall is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. Spending time strolling hand-in-hand along the soft sand or watching the sunset is one of the most fun things to do in Cornwall for couples.
Porthcurno Beach
One of the most gorgeous beaches in West Cornwall, Porthcurno Bay's vast expanse of fine white sand is perfect for leisurely walks with your partner. The beach sits in a sheltered bay, so you can have some alone time with your partner for some excellent date ideas in Cornwall.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Porthgwarra Cove
Located near Land's End, Porthgwarra Cove is surrounded by high cliffs. It is ideal for escaping the crowds for some intimate time with your loved one. Bring a picnic blanket and watch the waves lap gently against the shore, or grab a bite at the Porthgwarra Cove Café.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Kynance Cove
With its turquoise waters and sweeping sand, Kynance Cove is one of the most photographed beaches in Cornwall. Go at low tide to explore the limestone caves and rock pools so couples can have more adventurous days out in Cornwall.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Lusty Glaze
Accessible via steps from Newquay, Lusty Glaze's golden sands feel like a tropical paradise. Relax in a sheltered sunbathing spot or try your hand at surfing so you and your partner can make a variety of treasured memories.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newquay Bay
St. Ives
The beautiful golden beach at St. Ives is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with direct access to the incredible holiday park. Later, explore the warren of narrow cobblestone streets and art galleries together for even more magical moments.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Frenchman's Creek
Frenchman's Creek Made famous by Daphne du Maurier's novel, secluded Frenchman's Creek near Helford Passage offers an excellent walk with intriguing features to discover. Whether it's small muddy beaches or the scenic river, this creek is perfect for date ideas in Cornwall.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
St Michaels mount
At St. Michael's Mount, walk across the causeway hand-in-hand to reach this iconic castle perched on a rocky island. Enjoy the panoramic sea views before grabbing an ice cream in the pretty harbour. You and your partner can soak up all the history as you take in the magnitude of the castle's stature.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Port Isaac
This quaint fishing village, with its small shingle beach, provided the backdrop for the TV show Doc Martin. Meander the steep, winding lanes and enjoy fresh seafood at a cliff-side restaurant as you overlook the gorgeous sea views.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Outdoor fun things to do in Cornwall for couples
Cornwall offers endless active adventures for those seeking outdoor things to do in Cornwall for couples. Create special memories exploring Cornwall's dramatic coastline and lush countryside.
Hiking along the Coastal Path
From easy, romantic walks to multi-day hikes, the 630-mile South West Coast Path offers spectacular clifftop experiences for active couples. Look out for hidden coves, cultural landmarks, and many other features on the many coastal path routes.
Find out more
Uncovering the Eden Project
Lose yourself for hours in the Eden Project, a gorgeous natural paradise. Explore the biome or wander the outdoor gardens together at this fascinating eco attraction near St Austell. The colourful surroundings are the perfect romantic setting.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Visiting Land's End
Make your way to the westernmost tip of England, where granite cliffs plunge into the pounding Atlantic Ocean at Land's End. Pose for photos and take in the breathtaking scenery, as this landmark will surely leave you and your loved one in awe.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Exploring Bedruthan Steps
For more outdoor activities in Cornwall, visit the striking rock formations and secluded coves surrounding Bedruthan Steps near Newquay. Have a picnic while admiring the azure waters and impressive sea-carved steps.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newquay Bay
Discovering St. Nectan Glen
Wander through St Nectan's Glen, a magical valley blanketed in wildflowers near Tintagel Castle. Take advantage of the crashing waterfall cascading over mossy rocks, one of Cornwall's best places for couples to visit.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Bude Holiday Resort
Retallack Aquapark
If you want memorable days out in Cornwall for couples, you should have a blast diving into Retallack Aquapark. Race your partner across the inflatable course, or test your skills on FlowRider, Cornwall's only surf simulator.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Minack open-air theatre
Watching a performance at Minack Theatre, the spectacular clifftop venue, is one of Cornwall's most romantic things to do. Enjoy fantastic entertainment with the sea views before you for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy classic dramas and musicals during the summer season and much more.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Exploring the Camel Valley vineyards
Try award-winning English sparkling wines and enjoy a vineyard tour at Camel Valley. This picturesque spot near Bodmin offers a day out exploring a scenic vineyard, with guided tours and wine tasting to set the romantic mood. After tasting your favourite wines, you can purchase some at the shop.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Boat trip to Frenchman Creek
View the unspoiled shoreline and changing tides with Helford River Cruises, where you can enjoy a 90-minute cruising from Falmouth along the River Helford to Frenchman's Creek. Enjoy a romantic sailing experience across the river as the wind sweeps past you and your partner.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newperran Holiday Park
Gin To My Tonic Gin, Rum, Vodka Festival
Sample a huge range of artisan gins, rums, and vodkas at the Truro Gin To My Tonic Gin, Rum & Vodka Festival. This lively annual festival held at Truro Cathedral in July offers live music and access to several bars and products from distillers.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newperran Holiday Park
Langham Wine Estate
For one of the more unique things couples can do in Cornwall, why not watch your favourite films outdoors on the beach at Cinema by the Sea? With Atlantic waves providing a soothing soundtrack and nearby food stalls and blankets for hire, you can enjoy the romantic movie experience.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Restaurant date ideas in Cornwall
Treat your tastebuds to fresh local produce at some of Cornwall's most romantic restaurants. From fine dining to casual beachside eateries, let's look at some of the best places to visit in Cornwall for couples who want top culinary experiences.
Paul Ainsworth at No. 6
Get ready to enjoy a Michelin-starred tasting menu at Paul Ainsworth At No6, an intimate fine-dining restaurant in Padstow. Dishes artfully combine Cornish ingredients like lobster and lamb for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
The Lookout Bar and Eatery
Indulge in the relaxing atmosphere of The Lookout Bar and Eatery at Retallack Resort. This fantastic restaurant serves delicious treats, full meals, or light bites to accommodate all preferences at different times of the day—the Lookout Bacon Cheeseburger is a perfect example!
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Duchy of Cornwall Nursery
Nestled in the heart of the Duchy Estate, The Orangery serves various tasty meals, wholesome lunches, and afternoon teas, with many ingredients grown on-site. After eating, wander through fields of organic vegetables to add to your date ideas in Cornwall. View the menus here.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Life's A Beach
Venture down to Port Isaac and try the high-quality dishes served at Life's A Beach. This sleek venue offers locally caught seafood, among other delicious options like curries and burgers, to tickle every taste bud while you overlook the gorgeous sea views. View the menu here.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Bude Holiday Resort
The Shore Restaurant
With its beachfront location and seasonal menu, The Shore encapsulates romantic dining in St Ives. Request a window table to enjoy sweeping coastal views and enjoy one of the most romantic things to do in Cornwall for couples.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Sensuous Spa days out in Cornwall for couples
Reconnect and relax together at one of Cornwall's indulgent spa days. Enjoy pampering treatments, quality time in therapeutic waters, and unforgettable days out in Cornwall for couples.
Retallack Resort ESYA Spa
Unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of Retallack Resort ESYA Spa. Choose from extensive therapies from trained professionals who will give you and your partner a romantic spa day to remember—from massages to facials and holistic treatments.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Water and stone wild spa Newquay
A Nordic Spa experience featuring wood-fired saunas, hot tubs, and ice baths can be found in some of Cornwall's most distinctive and breathtaking settings.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newquay Bay
Woodland Aromatherapy Looe
Aromatherapy is an old art that dates back to Egyptian times. It involves employing essential oils therapeutically to aid healing. Aromatherapy is a well-liked alternative treatment that treats the patient as a whole, not just the ailment or symptom. It functions by supporting the body's inherent capacity to maintain and heal.
Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Find out moreBonding in a cosy pub
What better way for couples to end adventure-filled days out in Cornwall than snuggling up by a roaring fire with local cider or craft beer? Cornwall is dotted with charming traditional pubs perfect for couples.
Pandora Inn
Dating back to the 13th century, the Pandora Inn creekside pub oozes romance with beamed ceilings and open fires. Enjoy local ales on the patio overlooking Restronguet Creek to add to your intimate date ideas in Cornwall.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newperran Holiday Park
The Admiral Benbow
Sink into a leather sofa beside the large granite fireplace at the 18th-century Admiral Benbow near Penzance. Choose from 20 rotating guest ales alongside traditional pub grub so you and your loved one can enjoy one of the classic British things to do in Cornwall for couples.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Ship Inn
With seven cosy bars, local music, and real ales, the ancient Ship Inn pub in the fishing village of Mousehole offers quintessential Cornish charm. You and your partner can grab a window seat and watch the harbour bustle as you sip away on your romantic date.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
The Tinners Arms
Tucked away in historic Zennor, The Tinners Arms dates from 1271 and has a time-warp appeal. Sip local mead by the fire and lose track of time with your loved one for one of the best places to visit in Cornwall for couples.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Romantic things to do in Cornwall during different seasons
The diversity of Cornwall's landscapes means there's something special for couples to experience at any time of year. Here are some of the best places for couples to visit in Cornwall during certain seasons.
Cornwall's gardens in the summer months
Marvel at exotic plants worldwide flourishing at Cornwall's mild climate gardens during summer. For example, you and your partner can explore the Lost Gardens of Heligan for a scenic experience.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Sun set on a perfect day
Find a quiet clifftop spot and watch the sun sink into the sea with pastel skies overhead – pure magic for any couple. One excellent sunset viewing spot to try out would be Mawgan Porth Beach.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Newquay Bay
Festive romance at Christmas
Twinkling lights, carol singing, and old-fashioned Christmas markets make exploring the festive season one of the most romantic things to do in Cornwall for couples. For example, you could indulge in the festivities of the Padstow Christmas Festival.
- Closest Away Resorts Park: Retallack Resort
Planning a Valentine's Day surprise
Book a cosy cottage or sea view to make your Valentine's Day in Cornwall special. For example, have you wondered what it would feel like to overlook St Ives Beach and watch the sunset or stargaze from your hot tub?
- Closest Away Resorts Park: St Ives Bay
Tips for the best places to visit in Cornwall for couples
With limited time, pinpointing the can't-miss destinations for romantic getaways in Cornwall can be tricky. Here are some examples of personalised itineraries:
Recommendations for a week's holiday
Base yourselves in St Ives Bay for access to St Ives beach, buzzing restaurants like Admiral Benbow, and a nature walk through Frenchman's Creek. Take day trips to Cornwall's wilder spots like Land's End and St. Michael's Mount. End with a visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Recommendations for a long weekend holiday
Stay in Retallack Resort and enjoy romantic meals at The Lookout Bar and Eatery. Visit the picture-perfect fishing village of Port Isaac and enjoy thrilling adventures at Retallack Aquapark. Complete your minibreak with a rejuvenating spa day at Retallack Resort ESYA Spa.
What are some tips for planning a trip to Cornwall, England?
Some tips for planning a couple's trip to Cornwall are:
- Be aware of peak times, such as summer months, as Cornwall can get very crowded. Shoulder seasons like May/June and September offer better value, fewer people, and mild weather.
- Book restaurants and attractions in advance.
- Consider staying at a cosy cottage or luxury lodge for an intimate ambience.
- Pack waterproofs - Cornish weather is notoriously changeable.
Things to do in Cornwall for couples: FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about things to do in Cornwall for couples.
Why is Cornwall a good place for couples?
With its secluded coves, excellent foodie scene, luxury spas, cosy pubs, and abundance of romantic things to see and do, Cornwall offers an idyllic setting for couples to relax and reconnect. The mild climate also makes Cornwall ideal for outdoor adventures and sunset strolls all year round, especially for a UK location.
What makes Cornwall special?
Cornwall is unique for several reasons, such as:
- The powerful ocean
- The wide selection of beaches
- Captivating fishing villages
- Pagan legends
- Historical sites
Which part of Cornwall is most beautiful?
The stretch of coastline from Land's End to St Ives contains some of Cornwall's most breathtaking scenery, including wild headlands, sweeping sandy bays, and turquoise seas. The fishing villages of Mousehole and Port Isaac on the north coast also offer beautiful surroundings.
What part of Cornwall is best for a holiday?
North Cornwall is most famous for holidays, with easy access to top attractions around Padstow, Newquay, and Bude. South Cornwall is less crowded but still offers lots to do around Falmouth, the Lizard Peninsula, and St Ives Bay.
Your couple's getaway in Cornwall is waiting
Cornwall is the ultimate holiday destination if you're seeking an enchanting and romantic escape! With its sandy beaches, exciting outdoor pursuits, and various romantic indulgences, couples can do plenty of things in Cornwall.
Whether planning a brief getaway or an extended vacation, Cornwall has all the ingredients to ignite passion and create unforgettable memories.
So, prepare your bags, hold your partner's hand, and embark on a journey to Cornwall for an adventure filled with love and magic!
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