Autumn in Cornwall

Autumn in Cornwall

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Here in the UK we know, and appreciate, that Cornwall is a firm favourite for holiday makers during the summer season, but what does Cornwall offer outside of ‘the season’, for all travellers? Well, the answer is … a whole lot more than you'd expect!

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Here at Cornwall Discovered, of course we are in the know of what’s going on, or in true Cornish style…'wasson’... in our county, but we feel that there seems to be a lot of gaps in what you all see on offer through, what is called in the travel and tourism sector, the shoulder seasons. Now, for those of you who don't know, the shoulder season is that which sits either side of the summer season. Most holiday makers and visitors would assume, and once upon a time quite rightly so, that Cornwall pretty much shuts down for the year after summer has come and gone. Ah, but alas, we are no longer living in the 70’s realm of Cornish tourism. Cornwall, in its own right, has recognised the beauty and possibility of the cooler months, the months that it doesn't have tourism begging at its doors to be fitted or squeezed in to. It has recognised the wanderlust that can be enjoyed - outside the typical season. Along with our sustainable pledge at Cornwall Discovered, to not contribute to overcrowding in the summer months, we truly believe that yes, Cornwall is stunning in the summer, but there is so much more to be enjoyed through autumn, winter and spring. So in this month's blog, we are going to take a look at some of the reasons to travel to Cornwall in the autumn and winter.

1. Falmouth Oyster Festival

Unfortunately, but understandably, this fabulous festival was postponed this year because of Covid, but is typically a well visited and enjoyed festival frequented by tourists and locals alike, offering something pretty unique. Oysters don’t seem to be on the top culinary pick for most - but we must say, you are missing out! These delectable delights are, which some may like to know, are not only an aphrodisiac (wink), but also packed full of vitamins! This festival hosts everything from  pop up stands for sampling, through to sit down dining options,  along with culinary displays and live cooking shows - it’s certainly not one to be missed! Foodie festival haven that you can book a table at!

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2 .Truro’s Food Festival

Continuing on with one of our favourite pastimes…food...yep, that’s right - we consider eating a pastime! With local Cornish eateries and restaurants serving up some of the most sumptuous cuisine in the country, not to mention the views that come with a lot of them, it’s hard not to! This annual salivating sensation took place earlier in October, in the county's capital, Truro. With local vendors and chef’s from all over the UK making an appearance at this city wide festival, we are spoiled for choice. There are chef masterclass theatres sharing top tips and culinary secrets, through to street traders offering samples of delicious local produce, street performances and more!

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3. No crowds

As we said earlier, the summer time offers fantastic and diverse activities for the whole family, but with those periwinkle-blue skies and golden sandy beaches, comes the crowds. Along with our hidden gems, we love to visit some of the more well known highlights of Cornwall, when the queues are practically non-existent, you can find a seat for your seafront coffee stop and spend more than a microsecond taking in some of the most beautiful sites and breathtaking views, before shuffling along. It’s time to swap out the summer sandals for your autumn boots and get meandering! We can't finish up here though - as one of the most, if not the best, bit about heading to Cornwall in the autumn is undoubtedly the practically empty beaches! Walking along one of the many beaches, be it big or small, you truly get the sense that you have the entire stretch to yourself. Whether you’re wanting a beach BBQ, sunrise or sunset stroll or fancy taking on the autumn surf, you can do so without having to practice your social distancing skills!

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4. Mevagissey Sea Shanty Festival

Located just down the road from our headquarters, this fun filled festival is another absolute must. If you want to get a sense of the true Cornish culture, this is the best place to start. Sea Shanties are embedded in Cornish communities and heritage - and are taken quite seriously! Local folk are incredibly proud of the routes and connections to these beautiful harmonies. And rightly so. This festival took place earlier last month and was a huge success, with sponsors, fundraisers and a community really pulling together to lay on a great show! For more information about Sea Shanties, why not check our blog here.

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5. Nature and Wildlife.

If you follow us on social media (and if you don’t, you should!) then you will see just how beautiful Cornwall is at this time of year. From Japanese and winter gardens, chilly but stunning coastal path hikes, woodland walks and meanders along the river banks - you can’t help but feel energised. Once you’ve wrapped up in your favourite winter warmer and popped on your walking boots, some things to look out for on your walks are; mushrooms! These important organisms play a pivotal role in the natural world and you can spot toadstools, which are popular at this time of year, that grow to a pretty impressive size. Another impressive sight to see is the grey seals that often come to breed in Cornwall. Taking shelter in caves and cliff-backed beaches, these lovely creatures can be spotted from both the north and south coast - the adults being a bit easier to spot than their pups as they can weigh up to 200kg!

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To find out more about our  tours and experiences or to create your own special holiday, please contact us here. We would love to hear from you!

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