Why you should visit Newquay, Cornwall

If you’re not fond of driving, but also want to visit the countryside, you’re not alone. Most people choose city breaks such as Bath, Bristol, Edinburgh and other cities that rely on public transport and Uber as heavily as London does, because of this very reason.

If you’re a city person who longs to go to the countryside, let Newquay in Cornwall surprise you.

According to car company Kia, Cornwall was crowned England’s greenest staycation spot, with over 15 eco-friendly spots per every 100,000 people. Famous globally for surfing, many of Newquay’s surf competitions are world ranking and some of the best surfers in the world can be seen in competition here. It seems like it’s on its way to becoming the Miami of England.

A train ride away from London, this town was the most searched for place to live on Rightmove. Around April 2021, eight out of every ten homes put up for sale were sold. You have to rely on local taxis to take you from one place to another, but it’s quite simple and hassle-free. 

If you’re looking to get away from the screaming-crying-throwing up children, Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is your go-to paradise. With the view of the beach and the cliffs from the floor to ceiling bathroom window, unwinding from the day is a luxurious activity here. From the balcony of your room, you can sip champagne enjoying the stunning view of the fine sand which is one of the most famous surfing spots of the country.

Don’t forget to carve out time for the spa, where there's a vitality pool, steam room, sauna, hot tub and nine treatment rooms including a couple’s room. Go to the beachside restaurant for the ultimate Cornish experience.

For an even more luxurious experience in the same location, the iconic five star Headland Hotel occupying the highest spot on the cliff, is a massive upgrade. The 1990 film adaptation of The Witches was shot here.

The Aqua Club, a 30-second walk from the main hotel, is a separate facility for the guests, consisting of three adjoined indoor pools as well as a sauna. Sip some champagne at the outdoor deck overlooking the ocean with another hydrotherapy pool, a hot tub and infinity-style edge pool.

Book a surfing class at the Newquay Activity Centre if learning to surf is your new year’s resolution. They provide classes for beginners as well as for the pros. The lessons are zero pressure and super fun. If you’re a beginner, the first few hours might result in falling off the surfboard but soon enough you’ll be catching the waves.

Wetsuit and surfboard are provided (and so are boots and gloves in winter.) The friendly instructors are Surfing England ISA level 1 qualified coaches and experienced surf lifeguards. You can also opt for a package where the instructor will take pictures of you while you’re on top of the waves.

Newquay has actually become the rising star in terms of foodie destinations more so now as Gordon Ramsey is regularly seen eating at the highly-lauded Fistral Beach’s Fish House restaurant.

If you’re looking for a restaurant overlooking the Newquay harbour, dine at Harbour Fish and Grill. For dinner, opt for the catch of the day, which in this case was sole and crab linguine. The portions are huge, and they are open until midnight.

For a fancy afternoon, go to The Terrace restaurant at the five star hotel Headland, known for its seasonal bistro classics. Lunch menu includes the crab open sandwich and many antipasti boards, though the Cornish cream tea during the afternoon is highly recommended.

Book a taxi to take you to Fir Hill Glamping, a 15 minute-drive from Fistral Beach. It brings you right in the heart of nature, which is hidden away down the narrow roads of Cornwall and then down a tree lined drive to the most perfect location, an enchanting old 16th century Cornwall estate. Charlie, the owner, is a welcoming host. 

With nine gigantic, Mongolian-inspired yurt, sleeping up to six people, you can stargaze from the yurt and maybe finally understand why people leave big cities to move to the countryside, to watch stars at night. Light some fire in the outdoor seating area and have a barbecue dinner with fellow glampers looking at a stunning sunset and Porth Reservoir view.

The estate has modern toilets and shower rooms providing the ultimate comfort and luxury. Charlie and his team have planted over 200 fruit trees in an attempt to restore the abandoned orchards, hence definitely go for a tour to explore the sprawling grounds.