I went to Cornwall with zero expectations. What began as a trip to pet-sit for friends became one of the most breathtaking (and delicious) coastal adventures I’ve ever been on. Here are just some of the reasons why I’ll be going back (and why I think you might want to add it to your bucket list).

1. The coastal walks

Cornwall has the longest coastline in England, stretching 1,086 km (675 miles). The longest waymarked footpath is a 1,014 km (630-mile) National Trail called the South West Coast Path. Every turn on the path feels like stepping into a postcard… repeatedly. It often features in lists of the world’s best coastal walks, and it’s clear why. Here are some of the sections I did.

Porthcothan to Newquay – 17.4 km (10.8 miles)

Land’s End to Porthcurno – 10 km (6 miles)

Porthtowan to Perranporth – 20.2. km (12.5 miles)

There are cute little nooks to stop for food and drinks along the way, though I’d say bring snacks and water, and most importantly, time. You’ll want to sit on every bench, take pictures and videos of every dramatic cliff, and soak it all in while you rest.

Here’s a fun little nugget of truth for you: It was made for coastguards to patrol for smugglers, which is why the path hugs the coast so closely, giving us these jaw-dropping views pretty much the entire way.

2. The swimming spots

Who knew England had beaches that look like you’re straight up in the Caribbean, minus the palm trees? Instead, you’ve got a backdrop of rugged cliffs and bay after bay where you can take a dip, should you so please. Here are some I came across during my wanderings that I thought were particularly special:

📍Nanjizal Bay

📍Porthcurno Beach

📍Pedn Vounder Beach

📍Tintagel Haven

This goes without saying, but bring swimmers and a light towel if you plan to do this!

3. The picturesque towns

Every corner in Cornwall’s towns looks like someone’s meticulously arranged it for a magazine shoot.

Tintagel and St. Ives, though touristy, are certainly worth a visit. Tintagel is the stuff of legends, with its sprawling castle ruins once the supposed home of King Arthur. The village itself is dotted with medieval buildings, like the remarkably preserved 14th-century Post Office, and cute eateries.

Tip: Pre-book tickets for Tintagel Castle online for a 15% discount!

St. Ives charmed me with its winding streets and picturesque little harbour, where I stopped for a pint of apple cider. I’d put Tate St. Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden in the ‘must-sees’ for their intersection of art and nature.

For a more lived-in, less touristy vibe, the towns of Penzance and Falmouth are an absolute delight to explore. You’ll find creative, quirky shops, indie galleries, delectable local eateries, colourful main streets, and cobbled side streets galore.

4. The grub

I genuinely don’t understand why England gets a bad rep for its food. Cornwall cuisine slaps. I’ll let the images speak for themselves.

Pasties from Jamie’s Pasty Shop, Newquay

Fun fact: If it’s not made in Cornwall, it’s not allowed to be called a Cornish Pasty—by law.

Burgers from Hākari Kitchen, Newquay

Pastries from Gorse Bakery, Newquay

Scones, clotted cream, and jam at The Tea Room, Perranporth

Seafood from Kelp Canteen, Falmouth

Fish & Chips from Harbour Lights Fish & Chips, Falmouth

Seasonal local small plates at 45 Queen Street, Penzance

Tip: 45 Queen Street is very popular, so be sure to make a reservation well in advance.

Deli food at Charlie’s, Tintagel

Cornish ice cream at Treleavens, Tintagel

Bonus: Cornish ciders

You’ll find them on the menu at many eateries. I really loved the ones from Cornish Orchards (particularly the Raspberry & Elderflower flavour).

5. The endless list of things I didn’t get to do, and therefore, simply must return for

Like with any place, you can’t possibly do everything, but I’m definitely plotting my return, and here’s just the tip of the iceberg.

P.S. I visited Cornwall from the end of June to the beginning of July. The weather in Cornwall is notoriously unpredictable, but when I was there, it was spectacular, with many days of sunshine, some days of impressive clouds, and a couple with a light drizzle. The temperatures ranged from about 16˚ to 25˚C. The wind is chilly, so bring a jacket.