The 14 best things to do in Cornwall

What is it? Quite possibly the most attractive open-air theatre in the UK, carved into a massive lump of rock and ending with the sea.

Why go? The Minack Theatre opened in the 30s after Rowena Cade thought this piece of cliff would make a good setting for people to perform 'The Tempest'. No doubt it does, with the dramatic drop to the sea and seating eked out of granite. You can now see more than this one Shakespeare play here, with performances of all kinds staged throughout the summer months.

What is it? Only one of the coolest sports around, duh. 

Why go? Cornwall has some of the best surfing beaches in the world, and they're stunning too. Head to the coves along the north coast to catch a ride on some the UK's best waves. Fistral, Watergate Bay, Godrevy and Gwithian are all great shouts for getting involved in some gnarly surf. 

What is it? Tiny, rocky island connected to the land at low tide. Home to the St Aubyn family for generations, the mount has a castle, a chapel, and lovely gardens.

Why go? There’s something so attractively mystical about St Michael’s Mount. Situated just off the south coast of Cornwall, this crop of rocks is accessible via a causeway when the tide is low but not when the tide is high. So like the White Rabbit, you mustn’t be late. It’s possible to combine visiting this National Trust-owned hideaway with a walk along the South West coastal path to nearby Penzance. Then celebrate with a scone.

What is it? Two giant biomes that look like oversized footballs but actually contain a paradise of plants and the world’s largest indoor rainforest.

Why go? The Eden Project is one of those ultra-famous tourist attractions that are actually well-worth going to because it’s as good as they say it is (possibly better). The two main areas are the Rainforest and Mediterranean biomes, and they’ve also got huge outdoor gardens to explore. Just don’t eat any apples or get chatting to a snake.

What is it? Marine conservation charity quietly helping to change the world one lobster at a time.

Why go? Nowadays, people mostly associate Padstow with celeb seafood chef Rick Stein, but before you sit down to a plate of Grade A seafood on an evening, stop for a moment to consider the lobster. The National Lobster Hatchery is a lesser-known tourist attraction in Cornwall, letting you learn all about these pincer-wielding beasts and, crucially, how we can make fishing for them sustainable and non-damaging.

What is it? Award-winning, beachside branch of Tate capitalising on the Cornish town’s history as a hangout for artists. Really, really good artists.

Why go? This westerly outpost of Tate is something special because it is simultaneously local and global. The unique quality of light has long dragged generations of artists to St Ives, and visitors to the gallery can admire it pouring through the glass front of this stunning building.

What is it? A two-day tour of Cornwall taking in Tintagel Castle, the moors, and generally getting you acquainted with the area’s famous ancient monarch.

Why go? Long before tourists started coming to Cornwall for surfing and cream teas, this far reach of England was the focal point of the King Arthur legends. The stories told about those times are literally part of the landscape, whether that’s Merlin’s cave or Tintagel castle.

What is it? Magnificent botanic gardens once lost and now found. The story, the vision and, of course, the plants are all worth admiring here.

Why go? When Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote 'The Secret Garden', she couldn't have had any idea that Britain would one day be home to a real secret garden rescued from neglect and restored to health. Well, that is exactly what The Lost Gardens of Heligan are. The other heart-warming thing about this place is the project celebrates not the lords and ladies who owned the Heligan estate but the ordinary, green-fingered men who gardened.

What is it? Tudor fort made by Henry VIII that played its part in battle after battle. Located near Falmouth.

Why go? People love a good trip around a rural stronghold, and Pendennis Castle (designed for genuine defensive reasons, not for banquets) has an especially interesting history. It was constructed for Henry VIII but was still being used for military operations in World War II. Take in the story of this remarkable place and then head to Falmouth for lunch.

What is it? A tour around Truro and the nearby area based on the television series that got everyone heavy breathing over a man with his shirt off/the Cornish landscape.

Why go? Obviously, you just watched 'Poldark' for the epic shots of the Cornish coast and the historically accurate costumes. Right? Hmmm… We are not here to judge. Whatever your reasoning for wanting to be intimately acquainted with Ross Poldark, you can explore his version of Cornwall, starting with Truro harbour and trundling along the coast.

What is it? Sub-tropical gardens where visitors can roam around the rhododendrons, hop by the hydrangeas and see the sea.

Why go? Yes, it’s another set of gardens. Which might sound like something only your granny would want as the focal point of a holiday. But ignore Cornwall’s wealth of botanic bounty at your peril. You’d need a heart of stone to not appreciate the beauty of Trebah’s mass-upon-mass of blooming rhododendrons in the spring. Plus, you can head straight to the beach afterwards.

What is it? Wholesome, healthy and hearty entertainment paddling along the Fowey estuary (and stopping for a pub lunch or two).  

Why go? As much as Cornwall is about expansive moors and wind-swept beaches, it’s also about water – maybe even more so. If water sports are your thing (and you’ll need some previous experience for this), consider exploring Cornwall via kayak. Fill your lungs with fresh air, get your arm muscles aching and then debrief over proper pub food.

What is it? An expensive museum all about sailing, fishing and marine life, set on the water in Falmouth's beautiful harbour. 

Why go? See a diver washing the windows or a school of wild fish swimming at the famous below-sea-level window. It's the chance to explore real sailing vessels, historic fishing gear and the wonder of marine life over the museum's five floors and 15 galleries. 

What is it? A trip around the fishing village of Port Isaac that’s tailored to the whims of Doc Martin fans.

Why go? Port Isaac is now most famous as the location of the television series Doc Martin. It’s also a lovely place in its own right, located on the north coast not far from St Endellion. This tour combines all you need to know about Doc Martin with the history of the area.