Discovering Cornwall Art and Culture
When you think of Cornwall, what comes to mind? Do you think about stunning coastal views, gorgeous landscapes, and beaches of golden sand? Does the thought of Cornwall conjure picturesque fishing villages, wild moorlands, and cosy pubs? Cornwall is all of this and much more, and the wild beauty of this place has long drawn artists, inspired by its unique light, stunning vistas, and overall charm. Come to Cornwall for the art and culture, and you will be astonished by the region’s wealth of galleries, museums, and creative spaces, reflecting not only the artistic heritage of the area, but also a rich contemporary creativity. Exploring Cornwall’s lush tapestry of art, culture, and history, you will never run out of opportunities to discover something exciting. In every corner of Cornwall, you will find something unique and inspirational to recommend it, whether you are looking for art, history, or simply something beautiful to enjoy.
Finding Cornwall Cultural Treasures
Throughout Cornwall, you will find cultural gems, throughout the towns and villages. These glimpses into the region’s artistic heritage are part of a dynamic cultural landscape that continues to evolve.
- Start with St Ives. Sometimes called the artistic heart of Cornwall, St Ives has long been a mecca for artists. Here, you will find the Tate St Ives gallery, showcasing modern and contemporary art, focused largely on works inspired by the local area. While you are in town, check out Leach Pottery, founded in 1920 by Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada. This historical, influential ceramics studio has been a major player in the development of studio pottery in Britain and beyond. St Ives is also home to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, the former studio and garden of one of Britain’s most important 20th-century sculptors.
- Visit Newlyn and the Newlyn School of Art. You might not expect it, but this little fishing village near Penzance is home to a vibrant artistic community. The Newlyn School of Art, established in the late 1800s, nurtured British Impressionism, and today, the Newlyn Art Gallery showcases contemporary works as well as supporting emerging artists.
- In Falmouth, you will find another thriving art scene. This town, known for its rich maritime history, is also the site of the University of the Arts, as well as the Falmouth Art Gallery. This gallery hoses an impressive, eclectic collection of artworks, including classic paintings and contemporary pieces. Each year, Falmouth hosts the International Arts Festival, which draws artists and visitors from across the globe.
- The Porthminster Gallery is one of Cornwall’s hidden gems. Housed in a former pilchard warehouse, this eclectic space showcases paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and jewellery from both local and national artists. This vibrant and engaging gallery is made even more charming by its proximity to Porthminster Beach.
- There is no other place quite like the Minack Theatre. This open-air theatre, carved into cliffs high above the Atlantic Ocean, is a must-see when you are in the area. It is easy to experience in all its glory, because it hosts a wide range of performances, from Shakespeare to contemporary works. If you prefer to come during a non-performance time of day, you can still enjoy the site, its beautiful gardens, and its stunning ocean views.
Hotspots of Cornwall Tourism
Tourists flock to certain places, and with good reason! These hotspots have diverse appeal, offering natural beauty, recreation, and cultural interest.
- The Eden Project: Near St Austell you will find a breathtaking ecological park, a vision of environmental sustainability, featuring enormous biomes with different climates and plant species. It is an amazing place to visit, to take in its beauty while interacting with exhibits and programs meant to promote interest in ecology and conservation. There are also themed events for each season, so be sure to check the calendar before you go.
- The Lost Gardens of Heligan: In the 1990s, these gardens, part of a once-neglected estate, were rediscovered and restored. Now they are gorgeous, with diverse plantings, themed gardens, woodland walks, and living sculptures that make it feel like a magical fairytale spot.
- Land’s End: For tourists seeking an iconic British landmark, there are few places more stunning than this spot, the westernmost point of mainland England. It is the perfect place for scenic walks along the coast, with dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views, and there is a visitor’s centre that offers information about the area’s history.
- The Lizard Peninsula: Another “land’s end”, this is the southernmost point of mainland Britain. It features rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and rare plant species, and its natural features and unique geology are a big draw for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Taking the South West Coast Path along the Lizard Peninsula, you will see some of the most magnificent views in Cornwall.
- Padstow: This town on Cornwall’s north coast is famous among foodies. Home to several celebrated restaurants, including some run by celebrity chef Ric Stein, Padstow is known for a vibrant food scene and its fresh seafood. It is also a charming little town with beautiful beaches and a picturesque harbour, so it is well worth a visit.
The Most Exciting Cornwall Attractions
Lest you think Cornwall is all art galleries, bucolic landscapes, and stuffy museums, we would like to mention a few exhilarating activities you will not want to miss on your Cornwall trip.
- Coasteering is a popular option. Experience the Cornish coastline from a unique perspective as you swim, climb, and jump along the cliffs, play in the surf, and check out some sea caves.
- Surfing is amazing in Cornwall. Newquay is famous for it, and its sandy beaches and consistent surf attract surfers from all over the world.
- Go caving in an abandoned mine. There are walk-in, walk-out trips, as well as full-blown caving, so you can set your own pace as you explore the subterranean world of Cornish tin mines.
Explore Cornwall Heritage Sites
The identity and culture of this vibrant region have evolved over thousands of years, leaving behind sites that offer a window into the area’s historical and cultural past. Explore museums, ancestral homes, castles, ruins, prehistoric sites, and more, not only to learn about the past, but to breathe in the heritage that lives on through these places.
- At Tintagel Castle, you can imagine yourself in the court of King Arthur. This site, famously associated with Arthurian legends, features castle ruins and a footbridge that provides access to them, in a dramatic surrounding landscape that evokes medieval history. This castle, perched on a coastal cliff, brings the mythical to life in a vivid and stunning way.
- St Michael’s Mount has a magical appeal. This tidal island, located near Marazion, has a medieval castle and village, steeped in history. It can be accessed by a boat at high tide, but at low tide, the site seems even more astonishing, as a causeway emerges from the waters, allowing visitors to walk across. Once on the island, there is plenty to explore, including the castle, the gardens, and panoramic views of the bay.
- The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region had a major role in the mining industry, and this site is actually a series of mining sites highlighting this industrial heritage. Featuring engine houses, mining villages, and transport systems, the site also has interactive exhibits offering insight into the lives of the miners who worked here.
- Lanhydrock House is a grand Victorian estate near Bodmin. Managed by the National Trust, this house and its surrounding gardens offer a taste of the aristocratic lifestyle of its time. The opulent interiors are open to the public, as are the beautifully landscaped gardens and parkland.
- Bodmin Jail was once a prison and is now a museum. This unique site, dating back to the 18th century, offers a fascinating look at Cornwall’s criminal history. The jail features interactive exhibits and historical displays, as well as night tours and ghost walks for those who like a little bit of intrigue with their sightseeing.
The Perfect Cornwall Stay
When you are ready to explore all this region has to offer, from Cornwall art and culture to Cornwall heritage sites, book your stay at The Rosevine Hotel. Our charming boutique hotel is beautifully situated in the picturesque coastal village of Portscatho, in a beautifully restored Georgian house, where timeless elegance blends with contemporary design for an atmosphere that is at once relaxed and sophisticated. When you are ready for the perfect Cornwall getaway, it is easy to book your stay online. Should you need more information or directions, call +44 (0) 1872 580 206 or contact us through our website.
