Newquay is a picturesque part of Cornwall with more surfing shops that you’ll ever know what to do with.
Falmouth is a beautiful and safe area to walk around and attracts a lot of tourists.
A brief history of Newquay
Until the 15th century Newquay was called “Towan Blystra”, but in the mid-1400’s, the Bishop of Exeter sourced the funds to build a new quay in that area. Once those plans were set in motion, over time, the town simply kept the name of “Newquay”. This town became an important hub for Cornwall’s original industries of tin mining, fishing and agriculture.
Once the rail link was built in 1876, tourism became the newest and biggest source of income. Beach holidays for the rich were very popular, and Newquay had some of the most charming and large beaches around. Hotels began to be built to cater to the tourists visiting during the warmer seasons, and steadily but surely, Newquay grew.
Once the airport was built in the late 20th century, nothing was holding Newquay back anymore. Tourists could use Newquay as an inexpensive getaway location, or travel via its airport to reach somewhere new. No matter what they decided, the glorious views of this town gave people plenty to see.
Where to go and what to do
Fistral Beach is perhaps one of the most well-known beaches in the Cornwall area. This sand beach is renowned for its surfing opportunities. If you’re not here for the surfing, there’s also the award-winning spa inside Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa; giving you a moment to sit back and relax.
If it’s raining, because we’re still in England even if we are at the beach, why not try visiting Blue Reef Aquarium? There’s a vast array of marine life to see and lots of information about the different breeds that are housed there. Journey from Cornwall to the more exotic seas with 40 different natural sea creature habitats.
Newquay Zoo is a great place to go for families that have small children with them. There’s a children’s play area, as well as various events that are run throughout the year. Like the Aquarium, there is a whole host of animals here – over 130 species, in fact!
But, if you’re looking to see something green, take a stroll through Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park. There’s a boating lake that you can go out on using a pedal boat to explore the lake directly from the water.
Where to stay
Upscale lodging with relaxed rooms is exactly what Hepworth offers. This hotel is charming, with a slight Victoria feel, and even has a sauna. Hepworth is just a 7-minute drive away from Fistral Beach, too.
Next on our accommodation list is Rolling waves; a seaside Bed and Breakfast with a licensed bar and 4-course dinners. It’s a good sized B&B with a modern, sailor-esque look, and it overlooks Porth Beach.