A family break to Cornwall

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Published on Friday, 14 December 2012 11:52

Last Updated on 20 February 2018

Monica Costa

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In a little over four hours by car or five hours by train (eight if choose to take the exciting sleeper train) from London and you can be in the quintessential holiday destination of Cornwall. Yes, Londoners can reach the sandy Canvey Island beach in an hour but when it comes to family holidays in the UK, there are few better options than this south west region. With its enviably mild climate, picture postcard beaches and family fun all year round, the drive south west is definitely worth it. Once you arrive in Cornwall you’ll find a wealth of attractions sure to please Mum, Dad and children of all ages.

Cornwall is the place to go if your children are water babies. Where better for aspiring surfers to catch the surfing bug and a few waves than in the home of this sport in the UK? With more than 200 beaches to choose from, some with lifeguards and more instructors than you can shake a stick at, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a spot for your beach towel. If your little ones are happier on dry land then no problem, Cornish sand makes for pretty good sandcastles too! After a busy day out, you’ll be happy to walk the short distance home to your holiday cottage for a well-earned break. 

Budding David Attenboroughs will also love a holiday to Cornwall with plenty of nature spotting opportunities throughout the region. Take to the coastal path for a gentle walk suitable for the littlest of legs and buggies and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. The two-mile route from Penzance to Maraizon offers views to St Michael’s Mount and excellent bird-spotting opportunities in the autumn. Alternatively, follow the circular route from Hawker’s Cove through farmland for far-reaching views across Padstow Bay from the lookout tower. The coastal path is the ideal spot for catching a glimpse of Cornwall’s marine residents as several grey seal colonies and dolphin pods call the Cornish coast home. There’s also the award-winning Eden Project near St Austell for the perfect combination of learning and enjoyment which parents will also enjoy.

Leaving London certainly doesn’t mean leaving behind the wealth of great restaurants, bars and culture on offer in the capital. Cornish food is a great pull for many holidaymakers so whether you give the humble Cornish pasty the starring role in your lunchtime picnic or choose one of the many eateries using the freshest of local ingredients, Cornwall won’t disappoint. Plus, knowing how popular the south west is with families, many of the top restaurants, such as Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen, offer a children’s menu and welcome all but the youngest of diners at night. Culture lovers will also find a whole host of museums and galleries for a family day out. Try the Cornish sister of the Tate Gallery in St Ives or discover Cornwall’s heritage at the Geevor Tin Mine or the Smuggling Museum in Polperro.

So, leave the hustle and bustle of inner city London behind and exchange it for a more relaxed and gentler pace of life as soon as you cross the Devon border. After a few days in Cornwall, you’ll be glad you made the journey and I’m sure will be eagerly planning your return visit.