Cornwall isn't just a place you visit—it's a place you experience. This county tucked away in England’s southwestern corner is celebrated for its rugged coastlines, golden beaches, historic castles, and charming villages. It's a destination that seems purpose-built for adventure, making it a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply drawn to the idea of exploring at your own pace, Cornwall has something for everyone. 

But how do you uncover the very best of what this magical region has to offer? From the adventures to be had to the landmarks to marvel at, we’ll guide you through the must-dos, must-sees, and must-visits in Cornwall, along with tips for hiking your way to unforgettable memories. 

What to Do in Cornwall and Must-Do Activities 

Cornwall truly caters to every kind of adventurer, including the foodies! Here are some tasty activities you simply shouldn’t miss: 

• Visit a Rick Stein Restaurant in Padstow: Food lovers rejoice! Indulge in world-class cuisine at one of Rick Stein's famous restaurants. We recommend his seafood restaurant in Padstow – you're by the seaside after all! 
• Take a Class at Rick Stein's Cookery School: Learn to cook delicious seafood dishes and more at this renowned cookery school in Padstow. 
• Taste the Best Pasties in Cornwall: Cooked onion, beef, potato and turnip encased in pastry shaped as a semi-circle. No trip is complete without indulging in a Cornish pasty.  
• Cream Teas: Indulge in a classic Cornish cream tea, complete with freshly baked scones, fruity jam, and a generous dollop of clotted cream (remember, it's jam first in Cornwall!).  
• Cornish Cider: Refresh yourself with a chilled glass of locally crafted Cornish cider, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the trails. 
• Wildlife and Nature Boat Rides: Spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds as you explore Cornwall’s rugged coastline by boat.  
• Kayaking in Estuaries: Paddle through serene estuaries surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.  
• Paddle Boarding: Glide across Cornwall’s calm waters and take in the beautiful views.  
• Surfing Out of Newquay: Catch some waves at one of the UK's top surfing destinations.  
• Swimming and Beachcombing: Enjoy a refreshing swim or hunt for treasures on Cornwall’s sandy beaches. 

What to See in Cornwall and Must-See Sights 

The beauty of Cornwall is visually irresistible. From coastal landmarks to lush gardens, here’s your must-see list: 

• The Eden Project in Cornwall: Located near St. Austell, this iconic attraction is a global garden filled with themed biomes that transport you to rainforest and Mediterranean ecosystems. 
• St Michael’s Mount: A majestic castle stands atop this tidal island just off the coast of Marazion. Cross the cobbled causeway at low tide or take a boat at high tide for a touch of medieval magic. 
• Land’s End Cornwall: A visit to Cornwall isn’t complete without seeing the dramatic cliffs at Land’s End. It’s the most westerly point of mainland England, offering stunning ocean views. 
• Tate St Ives, Cornwall: Art lovers, rejoice! This gallery is a haven of contemporary art inspired by Cornwall’s magical landscapes. 
• Restormel Castle and Launceston Castle in Cornwall: These atmospheric castles are perfect for history buffs. Wander their ruins and soak in the rich heritage. 
• Chase the Sunset: Cornwall's beaches are perfect for sunset lovers. Porthmeor Beach in St Ives or Sennen Cove offers hypnotic views you'll carry with you forever. 

What to Visit in Cornwall and Must-Visit Places 

Looking for hidden gems and unique finds? This list of must-visit places in Cornwall has you covered: 

• Bodmin Steam Railway: Hop aboard and enjoy a charming railway experience through scenic countryside. It’s like stepping back in time. 
• Camelot Castle, Tintagel: Myth and history collide at Tintagel, rumored to be King Arthur’s birthplace. A walk here feels like stepping into a storybook. 
• Cornwall Beaches: The best beaches in Cornwall, like Porthcurno and Kynance Cove, offer idyllic sands perfect for lounging, exploring caves, or a quick paddle in crystal-clear waters. 
• St Mawes Castle Cornwall: A coastal fortress with beautifully kept gardens and stunning views, this spot is a true delight for visitors. 
• Discover Poldark and Doc Martin Country: Fans of Poldark and Doc Martin will love visiting the stunning locations where these beloved series were filmed. 
• Cornish Mining World Heritage Site: A UNESCO Site in Cornwall celebrates its mining heritage, featuring historic engine houses and landscapes that highlight its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution and a mining history dating back to 2000 BC. 
• King Edward Mining Museum: This museum highlights the history of mining with exhibits and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the tools, techniques, and stories of the miners who shaped the region's heritage. 
• Trelissick Garden: These stunning gardens offer a tranquil escape and showcase some of Cornwall’s most beautiful flora.  
• Minack Theatre: A stunning outdoor theatre carved into the cliffs, offering spectacular views of the sea built by visionary Rowena Cade in the 1920s and 30s. Rich in history, this iconic location has captivated audiences for decades and even made an appearance in Game of Thrones. Don’t miss a show here if you have the chance! 
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan: A restored Victorian estate, these enchanting gardens are a must-visit for any nature lover. Take a stroll through the lush greenery and discover hidden corners and surprises around every turn. 
• National Maritime Museum Cornwall: Learn about Cornwall’s vital role in maritime history at this interactive museum.   

If you’re asking yourself “what is Cornwall famous for?”, the answer lies in its sheer diversity—a place where you can move from castles to cliffs and finish off with a pasty by the beach. 

Hiking in Cornwall 

Cornwall's coastal paths are nothing short of spectacular. Largely created by pirates and local smugglers to access hidden coves, here are a few you absolutely shouldn’t miss: 

1. The South West Coast Path 

This iconic trail stretches 630 miles, and Cornwall offers some of its most scenic segments. Macs offers trips that let you explore the route in stages if you want to tackle a section at a time. While the full South West Coast Path isn't available on our website, it can be booked over the phone with one of our adventure experts. 

Discover more about the South West Coast Path trail > 

2. St Ives to Penzance (South West Coast Path) 

Difficulty: Moderate  
Distance: 40 miles 
 
Take on a scenic adventure from St. Ives to Penzance. This journey showcases rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and quaint fishing villages, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and Cornish charm. 

Check out our St Ives to Penzance: South West Coast Path self-guided hiking trip >

3. Padstow to St Ives (South West Coast Path) 

Difficulty: Easy to moderate 
Distance: 61 miles 

Explore the stunning North Cornwall coast on this unforgettable leg of the South West Coast Path. From the charming fishing village of Padstow to the artistic hub of St Ives, this route offers dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and endless coastal views. 

Check out our Padstow to St Ives: South West Coast Path self-guided hiking trip >

4. Highlights of Cornwall in Comfort 

Difficulty: Easy to moderate 
Distance: 24 miles 

Experience the best of Cornwall at a relaxed pace and featuring carefully selected upscale accommodations that ensures a cozy and enjoyable stay. This trip offers optional sections of the South West Coast Path, allowing you to add on your Cornish adventure. It’s the perfect way to explore Cornwall’s stunning landscapes, all in comfort! 

Check out our Highlights of Cornwall In Comfort self-guided hiking trip >

5. Cornwall In Style 

Difficulty: Moderate 
Distance: 58 miles 

Discover Cornwall with style and sophistication. This upscale trip takes you along its stunning coastline, combining leisurely walks with 4 and 5* boutique accommodations and delicious local cuisine. Explore charming fishing villages, golden beaches, and stunning vistas at your own pace. 

Check out our Cornwall In Style self-guided hiking trip >

Biking in Cornwall

Check out our 

Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: 94 miles 

Explore the seascapes, charming villages, and stunning coastline of Cornwall on this delightful cycling adventure! This self-guided itinerary allows you to ride at your own pace, enjoying highlights like the iconic St. Michael’s Mount, the peaceful Camel Trail, and the golden beaches of Penzance. 

Check out our Classic Cornwall Cycling self-guided biking trip >

Top Hiking & Biking Tips: 

1. Always pack plenty of water and layers—Cornish weather likes to keep adventurers on their toes. 
2. Download the Macs Adventure app to keep on track with the easy-to-follow maps. 
3. Stay mindful of your impact—stick to paths and take litter home to preserve Cornwall’s natural beauty. Read the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace for more info. 

Check out our self-guided hiking packing list so you don't forget anything! 

Head to our self-guided biking packing list to take everything you need.

Self-Guided Adventures in Cornwall 

For those who enjoy exploring at their own pace, self-guided adventures across Cornwall are a dream come true. 

Download the Macs Adventure app to easily follow your route and keep all your trip info in one spot. Before you head off on your adventure, make sure you get the app, read over your trip details and daily maps, and download everything for offline use (so there's no need to rely on data connection while you're on the trail). 

Head to our Cornwall hiking guide for more advice and inspiration.

Discover Cornwall with Macs Adventure 

Cornwall's self-guided hiking trails aren’t just paths—they’re doorways to history, natural beauty, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. Whether you're meandering along a coastal path, uncovering hidden coves, or walking past lush meadows, Cornwall offers it all. 

But what makes the experience even better? Exploring it responsibly. At Macs Adventure, we help you discover England’s diverse landscapes on your terms. Join thousands of others who’ve chosen sustainable, self-guided adventures, avoiding crowds and immersing themselves in local culture. 

Explore our Cornwall tours today for the biggest choice of hiking routes. Discover iconic trails, charming villages, and authentic Cornish charm with a sprinkle of adventure. 

Browse our self-guided hiking tours in Cornwall >