Adventures in Newquay with Vertical Descents Cornwall
Operating in Newquay since 2001
- AALA Licensed & Inspected to take minors (under 18's) on adventurous activities
- Fully qualified and trained staff
- DBS Checked Staff
- Adventurous Activities Insured
- WiSe Adventure trained - The WiSe Scheme is about watching marine wildlife the wildlife-safe way
- All equipment included
Our Adventures in Newquay
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Accommodation
We have listed a range of accommodation in the Newquay area to suit a variety of tastes and budgets from Camping to Cottages.! We are constantly trying to improve our offerings so if you have stayed somewhere nice and would like us to add it to our site please don’t hesitate to be in touch
Newquay offers a variety of camping and glamping options, perfect for enjoying the beautiful Cornwall countryside and coastline. Here’s a guide to some of the best campsites and glamping sites in and around Newquay:
Camping Options
Trethiggy Holiday Park, Campsite and caravanning is sat on the outskirts of Newquay in the quaint village of Quintrell Downs. Its perfect for those wanting to Camp or caravan in Newquay without been in the hustle and bustle of town.
Newquay View Resort
A family-friendly holiday park situated on a hilltop with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. Offers camping pitches, static caravans, and lodges. Amenities include a swimming pool, restaurant, and entertainment. Close to local beaches, and a great base for exploring Newquay and nearby attractions.
Hendra Holiday Park
A large family-friendly park just a short drive from Newquay’s beaches. Offers camping pitches as well as luxury lodges and static caravans. Facilities include a heated indoor pool, entertainment venues, and restaurants. Great location for exploring local attractions, with plenty of on-site activities like mini-golf and adventure playgrounds.
Porth Beach Holiday Park
Located near Porth Beach, this campsite offers a relaxing environment for families and couples. Offers tent pitches, static caravans, and glamping options. Facilities include a restaurant, shop, and laundry. Easy access to Porth Beach and coastal walks, plus nearby attractions in Newquay.
Glanmor Camping
A small, eco-friendly campsite located near Crantock Beach. Offers tent pitches in a tranquil setting with basic amenities, including showers and toilets. Close to beautiful beaches and coastal paths, perfect for walking, surfing, and relaxing.
Glamping Options
Campsite and Glamping at Crantock Beach
This site offers both camping and glamping options, situated close to Crantock Beach. Luxury tents, yurts, and safari tents equipped with comfortable beds and furnishings. Shared facilities including showers and toilets, plus a café and shop nearby.
The Glamping Hub
fers various glamping options around Newquay, from treehouses to luxury yurts and bell tents. Unique accommodations with various themes, often set in beautiful natural surroundings. Vary by location but often include kitchen facilities, bathrooms, and communal areas.
St. Mawgan Farm Glamping
A peaceful glamping site set on a working farm near Newquay. Safari tents and eco-pods with comfortable furnishings and shared facilities.
Cornish Yurt
Located near Newquay, this site offers luxury yurts in a peaceful setting. Spacious, beautifully furnished yurts with comfortable beds and wood-burning stoves. Shared shower facilities and a communal kitchen area. Close to beaches and walking trails.
Tips for Camping and Glamping in Newquay
- Booking: Popular sites can fill up quickly, especially in summer, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
- Facilities: Check the amenities available at each site, especially if you have specific needs like access to showers, toilets, or kitchens.
- Weather: Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changing conditions. Bring appropriate gear for camping or glamping.
- Activities: Many campsites offer easy access to local attractions, beaches, and outdoor activities, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Camping and glamping in Newquay provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Cornwall while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Whether you prefer traditional camping or the luxury of glamping, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful coastal area.
A lovely little 4 star Guest house situated in Newquay.
An Amazing Family Hotel, One of the oldest in the area.
Getting to Newquay
Getting to Newquay couldn’t be easier, you have a train station, Bus Depot and an Airport all linking the major cities of the UK.
Taking the bus to Newquay, Cornwall, is a popular option, especially if you’re traveling from other parts of the UK or nearby towns. Here are some steps to help you plan your journey:
1. Long-Distance Coaches (National Express & Megabus)
- National Express and Megabus operate long-distance routes to Newquay from cities like London, Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester.
- These coaches typically arrive at Newquay’s main bus station, which is conveniently located near the town center and many of Newquay’s beaches.
2. Local Buses (First Kernow)
- First Kernow is the main bus service provider within Cornwall, covering Newquay and nearby areas like Truro, Padstow, and St. Ives.
- If you’re traveling from within Cornwall, you can catch one of the frequent First Kernow routes to Newquay, including popular services like the Atlantic Coaster (services A5 and A2), which also offer scenic views of Cornwall’s coast.
3. Using Train and Bus Connections
- If you’re coming by train, you can travel to Newquay Station or nearby stations like Par or Truro. From there, bus routes (like the Atlantic Coaster) can connect you directly to Newquay.
- For journeys with multiple transfers, apps or websites like Traveline, Rome2Rio, and First Kernow’s own planner can help you map out the best route and timings.
4. Booking & Tickets
- For long-distance journeys, book in advance on National Express or Megabus websites for better deals.
- For local routes with First Kernow, you can purchase tickets from the driver or through the First Bus app, which sometimes offers discounted fares.
5. Travel Tips
- Summer can be busy, so plan for potential delays on buses and book ahead where possible.
- Check schedules as some routes may run less frequently or seasonally, especially to more remote beach areas.
Getting to Newquay by bus is a scenic and relatively affordable way to travel, letting you relax and enjoy the views along the beautiful Cornish coast!
Taking the train to Newquay, Cornwall, is a scenic and straightforward option, especially during the summer when extra services run to accommodate the higher demand. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Main Train Routes to Newquay
- From London: You can take a Great Western Railway (GWR) service from London Paddington to Par station, and then transfer to a connecting train to Newquay. Some GWR services operate directly to Newquay during peak seasons.
- From Bristol, Exeter, and Plymouth: GWR trains also connect these cities to Par, where you can transfer to Newquay.
- From the North (Manchester, Birmingham, etc.): CrossCountry trains run to Plymouth and Par, from where you can catch the Newquay branch line.
2. Newquay Branch Line (Par to Newquay)
- This scenic branch line connects Par (on the mainline) to Newquay. The journey takes about 50 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Cornish countryside.
- The branch line typically has more frequent services in the summer, but it’s still advisable to check timetables in advance as off-peak services can be less frequent.
3. Seasonal Direct Trains
- GWR operates a summer-only direct Night Riviera Sleeper Service from London Paddington to Newquay. This is an overnight train, so you can sleep on the way and wake up in Cornwall.
- During the summer, direct daytime services between London and Newquay are also available on weekends, avoiding the need for a transfer at Par.
4. Booking and Tickets
- Tickets are available through GWR, National Rail, and other booking platforms. Booking in advance often gives the best fares.
- If you’re traveling within Cornwall, look into Cornwall’s Ranger or Ride Cornwall tickets, which provide unlimited travel on local trains and buses for a day.
5. Arrival at Newquay Station
- Newquay station is conveniently located near the town center and a short walk from Towan Beach and other attractions. Local buses and taxis are available nearby if you’re headed to more distant parts of Newquay.
Taking the train to Newquay is a comfortable and scenic way to reach Cornwall, especially with the option to transfer onto the local Newquay branch line. It’s a great way to start a relaxed beach holiday without the hassle of driving!
Flying to Newquay is a convenient option, particularly if you’re coming from other parts of the UK or Europe. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Newquay Airport (NQY)
- Cornwall Airport Newquay (NQY) is the closest airport to Newquay, located about 5 miles (8 km) from the town center. The airport primarily serves regional UK destinations and select European cities, especially during the summer season.
2. Direct Flights
- Domestic Flights: Major UK cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Dublin offer direct flights to Newquay through airlines such as Eastern Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, and Loganair.
- Seasonal European Flights: There are also seasonal routes to and from select European cities like Faro, Alicante, and Düsseldorf.
3. Airport Transfers to Newquay Town Center
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal, and the journey to Newquay takes about 15–20 minutes. It’s worth booking in advance, especially in peak season.
- Bus: First Kernow operates the A5 bus route, connecting Newquay Airport to the town center and nearby areas. This is a budget-friendly option but may take longer.
- Car Hire: Several car rental agencies are available at the airport if you prefer to explore Cornwall by car.
4. Flight Booking and Seasonality
- Peak Season (Spring & Summer): More flights operate during peak travel months, especially with budget airlines. Booking early is recommended to secure better fares and availability.
- Off-Peak Season: Limited flights may still be available from major cities like London, but fewer options and sometimes higher prices are common in the winter months.
Flying to Newquay can save significant travel time, especially if you’re coming from a farther distance within the UK or Europe, making it an ideal starting point for a Cornish adventure.
Cycling to Newquay can be an adventurous and scenic way to explore Cornwall, especially if you’re a keen cyclist! Here’s what you need to know to plan a bike trip:
1. Planning Your Route
- National Cycle Network (NCN): Newquay is accessible via Cornwall’s National Cycle Network. The NCN Route 32 and NCN Route 3 run near Newquay, connecting it with other major Cornish towns like Truro, Bodmin, and Penzance.
- Cornish Way: This is a popular cycling route in Cornwall that incorporates parts of the NCN. It stretches from Land’s End to Bude and passes through Bodmin Moor, where you can connect to routes leading toward Newquay.
- Terrain and Challenges: Cornwall’s terrain is hilly, so be prepared for challenging ascents and descents, especially near the coast. Make sure to plan routes that match your experience level.
2. Bike-Friendly Transport Options
- If you’re coming from further afield, consider taking the train with your bike to a nearby station like Truro, Par, or Bodmin Parkway. Most GWR and CrossCountry services allow bikes but may require advance booking for bike spaces.
- Buses generally don’t carry bikes in Cornwall, so trains are often the best option for integrating cycling with public transport.
3. Places to Stay and Bike Facilities
- Newquay has several bike-friendly accommodations that offer secure bike storage and facilities for cyclists. Camping sites along the way also tend to be welcoming to cyclists if you’re planning a multi-day trip.
- Bike shops and repair stations are available in Newquay and in larger nearby towns like Truro, which is helpful in case you need repairs along the way.
4. Safety and Preparedness
- Weather: Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, with strong coastal winds and occasional rain, so pack appropriately for changes in weather.
- Navigation: Use cycling apps like Komoot, Strava, or Google Maps to plan your route and track your progress. Printed maps of the National Cycle Network can also be useful if mobile signal drops in more rural areas.
- Hydration and Snacks: Since some routes are remote, carrying enough water and snacks is essential, especially on longer or more challenging legs of the journey.
5. Arrival in Newquay
- Once in Newquay, you can enjoy beautiful coastal routes and cycle-friendly paths around the beaches. There are also plenty of cafés and scenic spots to rest and take in the views.
Cycling to Newquay is a great way to experience Cornwall’s countryside up close, and it’s especially rewarding if you enjoy combining travel with adventure and fitness!
Walking to Newquay is an adventurous and scenic way to experience Cornwall, especially if you love hiking! Cornwall offers beautiful coastal trails and countryside paths that make for an enjoyable trek to Newquay. Here’s how to plan it:
1. Planning Your Route
- South West Coast Path: The South West Coast Path is one of the most popular long-distance trails in the UK and offers a stunning coastal route to Newquay. This trail covers Cornwall’s dramatic cliffs, beaches, and villages, and it’s well-marked. Key stretches near Newquay include Padstow to Newquay and Perranporth to Newquay.
- Other Hiking Trails: If you’re starting from within Cornwall and prefer an inland route, there are several footpaths and bridleways that intersect with Newquay. Cornwall has an extensive network of public footpaths, though they may require navigation skills and mapping.
2. Points of Interest Along the Way
- Padstow to Newquay: This leg is about 15 miles along the coast and passes through stunning spots like Bedruthan Steps and Mawgan Porth.
- Perranporth to Newquay: This stretch is about 11 miles and takes you through sand dunes, cliffs, and the well-known Porth Joke beach.
- Inland Routes: If you prefer a countryside route, consider incorporating Bodmin Moor or trails through areas like Trerice (National Trust property), which offers a scenic view of Cornwall’s rural landscape.
3. Accommodation and Supplies
- Camping: Cornwall has many coastal campsites and wild camping spots (where permitted). Check the South West Coast Path for recommended campsites along the route.
- Hostels, B&Bs, and Inns: There are plenty of accommodations in coastal towns and villages. Book ahead during peak seasons (summer) for availability.
- Food and Water: Coastal trails pass through small towns and villages where you can stock up on supplies. However, some stretches are remote, so carry water, snacks, and perhaps a packed lunch.
4. Safety and Preparedness
- Navigation: The South West Coast Path is well-marked, but a map or GPS is useful, particularly on less-traveled inland paths.
- Weather: Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers, waterproof gear, and sunscreen.
- Physical Preparedness: Coastal walks can be strenuous due to uneven terrain and elevation changes. Be prepared for steep climbs and descents, especially near cliffs.
5. Arrival in Newquay
- Once you reach Newquay, you’ll find plenty of things to do, from enjoying the beaches and coastal views to exploring local shops and cafés. Walking to Newquay offers a real sense of achievement, and you’ll have earned plenty of relaxation time once you arrive!
Walking to Newquay is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to experience the beauty of Cornwall up close, enjoying each stretch of the rugged and picturesque coastline.
Things to do
We have listed a range of things to do in the Newquay area, Beaches to check out, nature trails to go on, Eating and drinking and soaking up the atmosphere and when you are full to the bring from Adventure with us at Vertical Descents there are even some more attractions for you to see. if you would like to be part of these lists please dont hesitate to be in touch.
Newquay is renowned for its spectacular beaches, offering a mix of sandy shores, dramatic cliffs, and fantastic surf spots. Each beach has its own character, catering to surfers, families, and nature lovers alike. Here’s a guide to Newquay’s top beaches:
1. Fistral Beach
- Best For: Surfing
- Features: Fistral is Newquay’s most famous beach and a mecca for surfers. It’s divided into North and South Fistral, with consistent waves that draw surfers of all levels.
- Facilities: Cafes, restaurants, and parking. The Fistral Beach Complex has shops, a bar, and a surf center.
- Events: Hosts surf competitions like Boardmasters and the English National Surfing Championships.
2. Towan Beach
- Best For: Families and central access
- Features: Located right in the center of Newquay, Towan is ideal for families with its calm waters and sheltered location. It’s easily recognized by the iconic “House on the Island,” a private house perched on a rock with a suspension bridge.
- Facilities: Close to the town center with access to shops, cafes, parking, and beachside amenities.
- Tidal Pools: At low tide, Towan connects with Great Western and Tolcarne Beaches, creating a wide expanse for beachgoers to explore.
3. Tolcarne Beach
- Best For: Relaxing and bodyboarding
- Features: Tolcarne Beach has a distinct curved shape with golden sand and is perfect for bodyboarding. Surrounded by cliffs, it has a quieter atmosphere and offers good swimming conditions in summer.
- Facilities: Café, beach rentals, and beach huts.
- Accommodation: There are beachside apartments and huts, so visitors can stay right on the sand.
4. Great Western Beach
- Best For: Swimming and families
- Features: This beach is popular with families for its calm conditions and sheltered location. It’s also one of Newquay’s original surfing beaches and is ideal for beginners.
- Facilities: Café, and toilets.
- Access: Great Western has cliff access, which adds a sense of seclusion but may require careful navigation for young families.
5. Lusty Glaze Beach
- Best For: Seclusion and weddings
- Features: A secluded cove and one of Cornwall’s few privately-owned beaches, Lusty Glaze has a cozy, relaxed vibe. It’s known for beach weddings, and concerts.
- Facilities: Restaurant and bar, beach huts.
- Events: Hosts open-air music events, weddings, and family-friendly throughout the summer.
6. Crantock Beach
- Best For: Scenic beauty and a quieter experience
- Features: Just outside Newquay, Crantock Beach is ideal for those seeking a less crowded spot. Surrounded by sand dunes and the Gannel Estuary, it offers a tranquil setting with stunning views.
- Facilities: Parking, seasonal café, and toilet facilities.
- Activities: Paddleboarding, kayaking with Vertical Descents, and scenic walks along the Gannel Estuary.
7. Watergate Bay
- Best For: Surfing, kitesurfing, and wide open spaces
- Features: This expansive beach is about three miles north of Newquay and attracts surfers, families, and beach sports enthusiasts. Its two-mile stretch of sand is perfect for long walks.
- Facilities: Cafes, restaurants, and ample parking.
- Events: Watergate Bay frequently hosts surfing and beach sports events, making it lively in the summer.
8. Porth Beach
- Best For: Families and picnicking
- Features: With its flat sands and safe swimming conditions, Porth is perfect for families with young children. There are rock pools to explore, and the beach is backed by grassy areas ideal for picnics.
- Facilities: Café, parking, toilets, and lifeguard presence in the summer.
- Access: Porth is easily accessible, making it popular with locals and families.
Each beach in Newquay has something unique to offer, from surfing adventures at Fistral to the secluded charm of Lusty Glaze. Whether you’re there for water sports, family time, or relaxing coastal views, Newquay’s beaches are a true highlight of Cornwall’s natural beauty.
Newquay and its surroundings offer beautiful nature trails, coastal paths, and opportunities for wildlife watching, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Here’s a guide to some top trails and wildlife experiences:
1. South West Coast Path
- Trail Highlights: This iconic coastal path stretches around the entire Cornish coast and passes through Newquay, offering panoramic views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and wildflower meadows.
- Route Ideas:
- Newquay to Porthcothan: This stretch is around 11 miles and takes you past Holywell Bay, Bedruthan Steps, and Mawgan Porth.
- Newquay to Crantock: A shorter, 3-mile route across the Gannel Estuary to Crantock Beach.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and puffins in spring and summer, as well as seals along the coast and dolphins in the open water.
2. Gannel Estuary
- Trail Highlights: The Gannel Estuary is a tidal river between Newquay and Crantock. It’s a peaceful location for riverside walks, especially at low tide when you can cross the riverbed and explore nearby sand dunes.
- Wildlife: The estuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with species like oystercatchers, curlews, and little egrets. You may also spot crabs and other marine creatures in the shallows.
3. Trenance Gardens and Boating Lake
- Trail Highlights: This tranquil garden and lake area is a lovely spot for a relaxed walk or picnic right in Newquay. It features landscaped gardens, walking trails, and footpaths around the lake.
- Wildlife: You’ll find swans, ducks, and sometimes herons on the lake, along with squirrels, butterflies, and various small birds in the gardens.
4. Holywell Bay and Penhale Sands
- Trail Highlights: Holywell Bay, with its dramatic dunes, is just south of Newquay. The dunes of Penhale Sands form one of Cornwall’s largest dune systems and provide challenging walking terrain with stunning coastal views.
- Wildlife: The dunes support unique plants and butterflies. Along the beach, keep an eye out for seals, and offshore, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins or even basking sharks in warmer months.
5. St. Agnes Heritage Coast and Chapel Porth
- Trail Highlights: Located north of Newquay, the St. Agnes Heritage Coast is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The trail here takes you through mining heritage sites, cliffs, and wildflower-covered heathlands.
- Wildlife: This area is excellent for spotting kestrels, buzzards, and various seabirds, as well as dolphins and seals along the coast.
6. Lappa Valley
- Trail Highlights: Lappa Valley is a short drive from Newquay and offers gentle walking trails through woods and along rivers. It’s also family-friendly, with miniature trains and activities.
- Wildlife: Woodland birds, rabbits, and butterflies are common sightings here, and the calm environment makes it easy to appreciate smaller creatures and plant life.
7. Porth Reservoir and Nature Reserve
- Trail Highlights: Just a few miles from Newquay, Porth Reservoir has a lovely nature reserve with circular walking trails and quiet spots for picnicking.
- Wildlife: The reservoir is popular with birdwatchers, as it’s home to species like kingfishers, herons, and great crested grebes. The surrounding woods and meadows also attract butterflies, dragonflies, and deer.
8. Wildlife Watching Spots
- Seals and Dolphins: Head to Towan Headland, Crantock Beach, or Fistral Beach, where you may see seals resting on rocks and dolphins swimming along the coast.
- Birdwatching: The cliffs along the coast and the Gannel Estuary are hotspots for seabirds and migratory species.
- Marine Life: Newquay has a rocky coastline, which is great for rock-pooling at low tide. Beaches like Towan and Holywell Bay have pools where you can see starfish, anemones, and small fish.
These nature trails and wildlife-rich areas around Newquay let you experience Cornwall’s incredible landscapes and ecosystems up close, from coastal cliffs and sand dunes to serene gardens and wooded reserves.
Newquay offers a diverse dining scene, with everything from casual beachside cafes to fine dining with ocean views. Here are some of the best places to eat out in and around Newquay:
1. Fistral Beach Bar & Restaurant
- Cuisine: Casual beachside fare – pizzas, burgers, and seafood
- Highlights: Situated right on Fistral Beach, this spot offers a relaxed, surfside atmosphere with outdoor seating and sunset views.
- Specialties: Wood-fired pizzas, locally sourced fish and chips, and refreshing cocktails. It’s perfect for casual dining after a day at the beach.
2. The Fish House Fistral
- Cuisine: Seafood-focused, modern British
- Highlights: Located on Fistral Beach, The Fish House offers freshly caught, locally sourced seafood in a cozy setting with sea views.
- Specialties: Signature dishes include monkfish curry, crab claws, and catch-of-the-day options. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.
3. Lewinnick Lodge
- Cuisine: Contemporary British and seafood
- Highlights: Perched on the cliffs of Pentire Headland, Lewinnick Lodge offers stunning ocean views and a relaxing, upscale vibe.
- Specialties: The menu features local Cornish produce, including crab linguine, slow-cooked lamb, and indulgent seafood platters. It’s a great spot for a sunset dinner.
4. Bush Pepper
- Cuisine: Modern fusion with Australian influences
- Highlights: Located in Newquay town, Bush Pepper brings a twist on British classics with Australian flavors and unique ingredients.
- Specialties: Kangaroo steak, halloumi fries, and tempura fish tacos. It’s popular for its creative menu and intimate setting.
5. The Boathouse – Street Food on the Beach
- Cuisine: International street food with local ingredients
- Highlights: Set within Newquay Harbour, The Boathouse brings together a variety of street food stalls serving everything from seafood to wood-fired pizzas.
- Specialties: The lobster roll, fish tacos, and Cornish crab are crowd favorites. It’s an informal dining experience with a lively, social atmosphere.
6. Rick Stein’s Café in Padstow
- Cuisine: Seafood and British classics
- Highlights: Just a short drive from Newquay, Rick Stein’s Café in Padstow is a must-visit for seafood lovers. It’s a casual spot offering simple but well-prepared dishes.
- Specialties: Fish pie, crab linguine, and fresh oysters. Reservations are recommended, as it’s a popular choice in Padstow.
7. Box & Barber Coffeehouse
- Cuisine: Healthy café-style with vegan options
- Highlights: This is a popular breakfast and brunch spot in Newquay, focusing on fresh, healthy dishes, smoothies, and artisan coffee.
- Specialties: Try their acai bowls, smashed avocado toast, or specialty coffee. They also have vegan and gluten-free options.
8. The Stable
- Cuisine: Pizza and cider bar
- Highlights: Located at Fistral Beach, The Stable serves a variety of artisanal pizzas alongside an impressive selection of local ciders.
- Specialties: Surf-inspired pizzas like “The Blazing Saddle” (BBQ pulled beef with caramelized onions) and the “Crab & Rocket” are popular, as well as cider flights for tastings.
9. Kahuna
- Cuisine: Pan-Asian
- Highlights: Kahuna offers a taste of Southeast Asia with a menu inspired by Thai, Malaysian, and Japanese flavors. It’s located in Newquay’s town center, offering both indoor and outdoor seating.
- Specialties: Teriyaki salmon, Malaysian curry, and beef rendang. This spot is loved for its flavors and unique dishes that stand out in Newquay.
10. Pavilion Bakery
- Cuisine: Bakery and coffee
- Highlights: Located in the town center, Pavilion Bakery is a perfect spot for breakfast, pastries, and quality coffee. It’s popular with locals and visitors alike for its artisan baked goods.
- Specialties: Sourdough bread, freshly baked pastries, and cinnamon buns. Ideal for a quick bite or takeaway picnic for the beach.
Newquay’s dining scene truly has something for everyone, from casual seaside bites to unique international flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, pizza, or a healthy brunch, there’s a fantastic variety of options to explore in this vibrant coastal town.
Newquay and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions, from sandy beaches and wildlife spots to heritage sites and adventure parks. Here’s a guide to the best attractions to explore in and around Newquay:
1. Newquay Beaches
- Top Beaches: Fistral Beach, Towan Beach, Great Western Beach, Crantock Beach, and Watergate Bay.
- Highlights: These beaches are known for stunning scenery, family-friendly areas, rock pools, and surfing spots. Fistral Beach, in particular, is famous for its consistent waves and surf schools.
2. Blue Reef Aquarium
- Overview: Located on Towan Beach, this family-friendly aquarium has exhibits featuring marine life from Cornwall’s coast and tropical species from around the world.
- Highlights: A glass tunnel with views of sharks, rays, and colorful reef fish, as well as interactive rock pool sessions.
3. Newquay Zoo
- Overview: A popular family attraction in Trenance Gardens, Newquay Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, including exotic and endangered species.
- Highlights: Big cats, primates, red pandas, and the African Savanna exhibit. The zoo also has a café, picnic areas, and seasonal events.
4. Lappa Valley Steam Railway
- Overview: A unique attraction with steam trains, miniature railways, and scenic woodland walks, located just a few miles outside of Newquay.
- Highlights: Train rides through beautiful countryside, paddle boating, adventure play areas, and nature trails. Perfect for a family day out.
5. Holywell Bay Fun Park
- Overview: A family adventure park offering mini-golf, go-karts, and water rides, located at Holywell Bay Beach.
- Highlights: Family-friendly activities like bumper boats, tractor rides, and crazy golf. Holywell Bay itself is worth visiting for its scenic dunes and wildlife.
6. Pirate’s Quest Adventure Golf
- Overview: This immersive adventure golf experience takes visitors through a series of pirate-themed caves and scenes, guided by actors.
- Highlights: Interactive exhibits, storytelling, and mini-golf challenges. Kids love the treasure hunts and learning about Cornwall’s pirate history.
7. Trerice House and Gardens (National Trust)
- Overview: A beautiful Elizabethan manor house with stunning gardens, located just a few miles from Newquay.
- Highlights: The historic architecture, period rooms, and tranquil gardens. You’ll also find a tearoom and family-friendly events throughout the year.
8. Dairyland Farm Park
- Overview: A family-friendly farm and play area, perfect for children who enjoy hands-on animal encounters.
- Highlights: Animal petting sessions, tractor rides, indoor play barn, and pony rides. The park also has seasonal events and workshops for kids.
9. South West Coast Path
- Overview: The South West Coast Path runs along Newquay’s coast, offering breathtaking cliffside views and access to hidden coves and beaches.
- Highlights: Popular routes include Newquay to Crantock (passing the Gannel Estuary) and Newquay to Watergate Bay. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and coastal birds.
10. The Japanese Garden
- Overview: Located in St. Mawgan, just outside Newquay, this peaceful Japanese garden features traditional Zen landscapes, bonsai trees, and koi ponds.
- Highlights: Ideal for a tranquil walk among bamboo, Japanese maples, and carefully curated stone gardens. There’s also a nursery where you can buy bonsai and Japanese plants.
11. Screech Owl Sanctuary
- Overview: A unique sanctuary dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of owls, located near St. Columb, a short drive from Newquay.
- Highlights: Over 40 species of owls, interactive experiences, and bird handling sessions. The sanctuary also has meerkats, emus, and alpacas.
12. Watergate Bay
- Overview: A beautiful two-mile-long beach, Watergate Bay is known for water sports, beach activities, and dining with ocean views.
- Highlights: Surfing, kitesurfing, and dining at The Beach Hut or Fifteen Cornwall. It’s a great spot for long beach walks and exploring rock pools.
13. Camel Creek Adventure Park
- Overview: This adventure park near Wadebridge is packed with rides, animal encounters, and play areas for kids.
- Highlights: Family-friendly roller coasters, log flumes, animal petting zones, and daily live entertainment shows.
14. Crantock Beach and the Gannel Estuary
- Overview: A serene beach south of Newquay, Crantock Beach is backed by sand dunes and the Gannel Estuary.
- Highlights: It’s a peaceful spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and exploring rock pools. You can also take scenic estuary walks or kayak along the river.
15. Bedruthan Steps
- Overview: About 6 miles from Newquay, Bedruthan Steps is a stunning section of coastline featuring giant sea stacks and dramatic cliffs.
- Highlights: Breathtaking views, especially at sunset, and a coastal trail along the cliffs. Access to the beach is via steep steps, but the views alone make this spot worth a visit.
16. Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm
- Overview: A working cider farm and visitor attraction near Truro, about a 20-minute drive from Newquay.
- Highlights: Guided tours of the cider production process, tastings of traditional Cornish cider, farm animals, and the popular Rattler Bar.
17. Perranporth Beach and Dunes
- Overview: About 8 miles from Newquay, Perranporth is a wide, sandy beach with massive dunes and tidal pools.
- Highlights: Surfing, horse riding, and exploring the dunes. The Watering Hole, a beach bar located right on the sand, is a unique spot for food and drinks.
These attractions offer a little something for everyone, from family-friendly outings and thrilling activities to peaceful nature walks and historical explorations.
How to book.
Click on the Blue – Book Now – button above next to your chosen activity image, where you can also check availability too.
Availability can be limited so it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. If it looks like we are booked up, do give us a call we maybe able to fit you in!
If you would like a custom activity start time, experience any difficulties booking or would like activity advice. Please call or text 07891264342 where our friendly team are happy to assist you.
Discounts & Offers
Call us for Group Discounts & Multi Activity Discounts – Which are available on most of our activities.
Special Quotes for SCHOOLS / YOUTH GROUPS / MILITARY ADVENTURE TRAINING, please CONTACT US.
Limited time offers can be found in our BLOG – Our other offers for groups can be found on our groups & offers pages in our main menu above.
Great family activity.
Vertical Descents Amazing!!
We would both 100% recommend this experience these guys are great!
Wow - What an afternoon!
Booking was easy, friendly and professional. Finding the team in Newquay was also easy and whilst we arrived really early, they made us feel really welcome and even sorted us out with a coffee.
As a seasoned Skydiver I was not thinking this would test my adrenal gland at all - How wrong I was....Brilliant fun, plenty of excitement and a real rush from start to finish. Our guides were friendly and very good.
I went with my 17 year old and my 12 year old. Both are girls and I spent the first 15 minutes staying close to them in the water but It was very clear they were in excellent hands and I had absolutely no worries for their care or safety. It really was a superb adventure and I cannot recommend highly enough!
Amazing Experience
Sam and Scott made us all feel safe taking part and showed us round some amazing caves, holes in rocks that we could swim through and we did a load of cliff jumping too. We were even fortunate to see a seal so keep your eyes peeled if you go! One of the highlights of our trip and I'd definitely recommend.
Great Extreme Coasteering Experience
Great experience in the wash - very friendly and organised, had a good laugh along the way and felt safe at all times!
Really recommend these guys if you are up for a challenge and adventure!
A highlight of our holiday to Cornwall.
If you want a morning full of fun, laughter, challenges and a sense of achievement then don't hesitate to book! We will be back!
We all got taken out of our comfort zones in different ways and felt very proud afterwards. Even had some photos and video footage take of us all jumping in.
The sea that day was bounce which made for some dramatic moments and a very fun day. Our guide was a very strong swimmer and helped tow our youngest around the corner as it wasn't that easy swimming in all the gear, which was provided.
Thank you so much.