This Summer we spent 4 days in glorious Newquay, a seaside town on the North coast of Cornwall.
Now, Newquay as a somewhat mixed-bag of a reputation. It has some of the most beautiful beaches and coastline in the country. The surf is top notch for folks with surfboards. There’s unique flora and fauna as there is with most of Cornwall. There are gorgeous indie coffee shops and boutiques. There are a whole host of live events.
Newquay deserves some attention. You just need to know where to look.
What To Do in Newquay
Beaches – Newquay is renowned for its beaches and rightly so. The great thing about having so many beaches and coves is that there is a personality to each. So depending on whether you’re looking for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, leisurely stroll, loads of atmosphere or calm serenity, there is a beach in Newquay for you.
Surfing – This Cornish town has a famous surfer culture for good reason; those waves pretty much bring the surf action all year round. Apparently something to do with Atlantic pressure systems means that the surf in Newquay is some of the best in the UK.
If you’re new to surfing you can find plenty of surf shops offering beginners lessons. Try Watergate Bay, Great Western beach or Fistral beach.
Check out the Newquay Activity Centre for a range of water activities including surf lessons, coasteering and bodyboarding.
Fishing – Don’t do what we did and go on a deep sea fishing trip lasting 4 hours on a choppy water day. Cue… all the sea sickness. Do, however, a little research and pick a nice, gentle, shorter trip and learn how to fish. Or stay on dry land and try your hand at crabbing.
Coastal Horse Riding – Well, if that doesn’t stir up some romantic moments, what will?
Steam Railway – I absolutely LOVE steam railways. I’m a huge fan of trains anyway so it’s always the perfect excuse to release my inner child. The Lappa Valley Steam Railway in Newquay is a cute activity for all the family.
Shopping – There are a fantastic collection of boutiques and independent shops in Newquay. I love grabbing a coffee from Jam Jar and taking a gentle stroll into town, popping into the boutiques along the way.
Barbecue – Our absolute favourite thing to do in Newquay is to simply hit up the local Sainsburys in town for food supplies and then head down to the beach with loads of blankets and a barbecue. It’s the most relaxing way to spend an evening, made especially lovely with a good sunset.
Where To Stay in Newquay
The Headland Hotel – Old school glamour ahoy at the classic red brick Victorian hotel perched out on the headland near Fistral beach. It has a stunning views all around and the interior is as sumptuous as you’d hope for. The spa is fabulous and the cream teas are served with the best view in Newquay. And did anyone say croquet?!
The Pentire Hotel – A fab mid-range option, it also has great sea views and is perched on high on the Pentire headland also overlooking Fistral Beach.
Travelodge Newquay – Good no-fuss budget option also with a sea view. It’s located pretty near to the train station and the main town of Newquay. It’s close to Tolcarne Beach.
We stayed at a friend’s apartment near Fistral Beach. For self-catering options you might like to try Blue Chip Holidays.
Where To Eat and Drink in Newquay
Lenwick Lodge – Beautiful gastro food with fresh ingredients and great portions. I had the Mussels and French Fries and Raj had the Pulled Pork Burger. Both were immensely enjoyable. Highly recommended!
Gusto Deli Bar – We popped into here for lunch one day and were delighted with the both the options avaialbe and the high quality of the food. We opted for a salad box where you get to pick a protein, dressing and salad items. I opted for the pulled pork with a few pork scratchings, chickpeas, potato and lettuce leaves. It was soooooo filling and tasted super fresh. Each day they offer different meat or vegetarian options.
The Fish House – Serves up fantastic fresh fish and seafood. It’s located right on Fistral Beach within the Staples building. I had the prawns, they were delicious.
The Jam Jar – They serve iced coffees with ice cream in a jam jar. What more do you need to know?
The Beached Lamb – Go here for the breakfasts and milkshakes. It’s on the way to Fistral Beach. They also do decent vegan food and have a fab beach-y vibe.
The Harbour Fish and Grill – Central location, built on a cliff with a lovely view over the bay. The Harbour offer fresh fish and seafood options.
The Cosy Nook Cafe – Exactly as the name suggests, this is a cafe in a cosy nook. Go there for Afternoon Tea and scones. Located on the otherside of the River Gannel, it’s well worth a stop after a brisk walk.
Have you been to Newquay? What are your favourite spots?
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Disclaimer: if you ARE looking for a stag do or hen party night out then Newquay does still cater nicely for that too.