Quick answer

Cornwall is a scenic, coastal county in southwest England known for beaches, dramatic coastline (including the South West Coast Path), fishing villages, and Celtic heritage. Expect changeable weather, busy summers, limited public transport in rural areas, and a relaxed local culture.

Visa & entry requirements

• Cornwall is part of the United Kingdom. Check UK entry rules that apply to the whole country:
  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: rules changed post-Brexit — check current passport validity and whether you need a visa for longer stays.
  • Non‑EU visitors: most short tourist stays (up to 6 months) are visa-free for many nationalities, but confirm with the UK government website (gov.uk).
  • Ensure passport validity meets UK requirements and that you carry any necessary visas or proof of onward travel.

Best time to visit

• Peak season: late June to August — warmest and sunniest but very crowded and more expensive.
• Shoulder seasons: May–June and September–October — best balance of weather, quieter attractions, and lower prices.
• Winter (Nov–Mar): dramatic scenery, fewer tourists, many attractions and some services closed; ideal if you want solitude and lower rates but expect storms and short daylight.

Safety tips

• Coastal safety: heed lifeguards, red flags, and local warnings. Cliff edges can be unstable — stay on marked paths.
• Rip currents: prevalent on some beaches (e.g., Hayle, Gwithian). Swim at lifeguarded beaches and avoid alcohol before swimming.
• Weather: bring layers and waterproofs — conditions change quickly.
• Rural roads: narrow, single‑track lanes and many farm vehicles; drive carefully and watch for cyclists and walkers.
• Emergency services: UK emergency number is 999 (or 112). For non-urgent police contact, use 101.

Local customs & etiquette

• Cornish identity: many locals are proud of Cornwall’s distinct Celtic heritage — be respectful of local culture and language (some signage in Cornish).
• Pace: people are generally friendly and laid‑back; service can be relaxed in rural pubs and cafés.
• Tipping: not obligatory; 10–15% in restaurants if service is good. Rounding up taxi fares is common.
• Beach etiquette: take your litter home, respect wildlife nesting areas (especially seabird colonies), and observe dog restrictions on some beaches in summer.

Currency & payments

• Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP, £).
• Cards: widely accepted in towns and tourist spots; some rural pubs, markets, and B&Bs may be cash-only or prefer card minimums — carry some cash.
• ATMs: available in larger towns (Truro, St Ives, Penzance) but scarce in small villages.

Transportation

• Getting there: nearest major airports include Newquay (regional), Exeter, Bristol, and Plymouth. Trains run from London Paddington to Penzance and other Cornish stations (long journey times). Driving is popular and flexible.
• By car: recommended for exploring remote coves and villages. Expect narrow lanes, limited parking in peak season, and parking fees at popular beaches.
• Public transport: Great for some routes — GWR trains along the coast, local buses (less frequent in rural areas). Book trains in advance for better fares and seat reservations.
• Cycling & walking: excellent routes (South West Coast Path, Camel Trail). Hire bikes in towns but be prepared for hilly sections.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Popular sights: St Ives, St Michael’s Mount, Land's End, Lizard Peninsula, Minack Theatre, Eden Project, Tintagel (Arthurian sites), the South West Coast Path.
• Book ahead: summer accommodation, restaurants, and vehicle parking or attractions (Eden Project, St Michael’s Mount) can sell out.
• Food & drink: sample Cornish pasties (protected recipe), cream tea (Cornwall-style: jam first, then cream — note Devon/Cornwall debate), fresh seafood, and local ales/ciders.
• Wildlife & nature: seabird colonies, seals, and seasonal dolphins/porpoises offshore. Respect wildlife and observe from a distance.
• Avoid congestion: travel early/late to avoid narrow coastal road queues and crowded car parks; use park-and-ride where available.
• Connectivity: mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas — download maps/offline guides and carry a portable charger.
• Sustainable travel: use public transport where possible, follow Leave No Trace principles, and support local businesses.

Quick packing checklist

• Layers and waterproof jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes/boots
• Swimwear and towel
• Plug adapter (UK Type G) and power bank
• Cash for small purchases
• Binoculars for wildlife and a reusable water bottle

Enjoy Cornwall: plan for variable weather, book popular spots in advance, and leave time to explore quieter coves and coastal walks for the best experience.