Come autumn, the summer crowds have gone, the air is a little crisper and the county’s colours have turned to rich reds, burnt oranges and glorious golds. Although there’s a quieter pace of life to be enjoyed, there are still plenty of things to do and discover – here are a few of our favourites:
Explore - Poldark style
Follow in Ross’s footsteps and discover the stunning heathland at St Agnes Head, sparkling blue waters at Porthgwarra and tales of shipwrecks at Gunwalloe. Head to the charming town of Charlestown - which remains virtually unchanged since the 18th century and doubles as Truro in the most recent BBC adaptation - where you’ll find stunning scenery, an informative shipwreck centre and delicious cream teas.
Get foodie
Throughout October there are plenty of food and drink fairs and festivals to enjoy, showcasing the abundance of seasonal delights the county has to offer. Head to the Fal Oyster Festival which is now in its twentieth year – celebrating the start of the oyster dredging season it promises a variety of cookery demonstrations, tastings, live entrainment and the much anticipated oyster shucking competition. Lovers of beer, cider and perry will also be spoiled for choice at the Falmouth Beer Festival - with over 200 tipples to choose from ,alongside delicious pub grub and live entertainment - it's a fantastic weekend.
Spook yourself silly
With autumn comes Halloween and there’s no better place to spook yourself silly than in Cornwall. Head to the Eden Project for their ‘Halloweden Festival’ and discover pop-up performances, ghostly sideshows and uncanny illusions. Visit Creepy Week at Camel Creek Adventure Park for spooktacular fun for the whole family – and for the really brave there’s the After Dark experience at Bodmin Jail. Wander the corridors in complete darkness and explore cells that once held Cornwall’s most notorious villains, not knowing what might meet you around the next corner….
Discover arts and culture
Cornwall has long provided inspiration for many artists, from the majestic St Michaels Mount to the mystical moorland. Penlee House Gallery’s current exhibition explores a Scottish artist’s experience of St Ives alongside its static exhibitions that include photographic and archaeological displays. Newlyn Art Gallery and the Exchange are hosting ‘Liberties’ - an exhibition of contemporary art by 24 female artists, that reflects on the forty years since the Sex Discrimination Act, exploring the subject matter through film, photography, sculpture, performance and painting.
Visit one of Cornwall’s Castles
Although no longer used to defend our land and shores, Cornwall’s castles still remain an important part of the surrounding landscape and great places to visit. Head to St Mawes Castle on the Roseland Peninsula - one of the best-preserved forts in England, it sits high above the Fal Estuary, offering far-reaching views of the Cornish coastline. Or, head inland and discover Restormel Castle, situated strategically to overlook a vital crossing point on the River Fowey it is one of just four surviving Norman castles in Cornwall and is a fascinating place to visit this autumn.
Find more ideas of activities and attractions to discover during autumn here.