Magical Cornwall

Rolling waves at Fistral Beach

Cornwall is a place unlike any other. At the farthest south western tip of the UK Cornwall is mix of amazing beaches, ancient history and enticing myth's.

When writing my book Among the Olive Groves I wanted Kate's home town to be based in Cornwall, somewhere that complimented the Greek island of Zakynthos, and Newquay was the perfect choice. It suited her character and the lifestyle she lead growing up. 

Tintagel

I really enjoyed writing about Cornwall, it is such an inspirational place, as well as being a great holiday destination. There is so much to see and do. 

It is full of history, with amazing places such as Pendennis and Restormel Castles, Stone Henges and Megaliths dated to around 10,000 to 2,500 BC, and Mines from Cornwall's past Industrial history.  

One of my favourite historical places to visit is Tintagel. This fantastic castle is the fabled 'home' to the legend that is King Arthur, but it also has an interesting history stretching back to the Dark Ages. Perched on the edge of the cliffs, you climb up and down jagged rocks that lead to an isolated clifftop defensive settlement. Walls, ground works and even the ruins of an old church remain, and it is incredible to think that people lived on the top of this cliff. 

The Lower Courtyard

A view of The Upper and Lower Courtyard, from the island

The Great Hall, Tintagel

The Upper and Lower Courtyard

Cornwall also has an interesting literary link, many books have been set in the county, the most notable are Poldark by Winston Graham and the varied works of Daphne Du Maurier. One of those works Jamaica Inn, is one of my favourites.  

Bodmin Moor where the Inn is situated, is a wild but beautiful place. A large unspoilt moor topped with granite Tors that overlook marshy bogs and valleys. Jamaica Inn itself is a step back in time to a bygone era that gives any visitor a brief impression of what Cornwall would have been like in the days of highwaymen and smuggling. 

Hawks Tor Pool

Jamaica Inn

Bodmin Moor

Bodmin Moor

Cornwall has one of the best and varied coastline's in the UK, with numerous beaches and coves. There are great places for surfing, watching the sunset or relaxing on the sand with friends and family. 

For surfing the north west coast is one of the best areas, and Fistral beach is one of Europe's top surfing destinations. There are also plenty of family beaches and many of them now operate seasonal dog bans. 

Marazion Beach and St Michael's Mount 

North Cornwall Coast

St Agnes Beach/Cove

Pretty harbours are also dotted around the Cornish coast, many of which are still filled with fishing boats; signs of a continuing fishing industry that is vital to the county. Fishing has been the main economical source of income for Cornwall for many decades, something that remains important to Cornish residents. Some must-see harbours are St Ives, Padstow and Charlestown, but there are lots more to be explored.

Cornish Harbour 

Newquay

Fishing boat, harbour

Finally there is the industrial side of Cornwall. A history of the county that lies abandoned, yet visible, throughout the county. These buildings are so iconic and I love seeing them pop up on the horizon. The minute I see them, I know I have  finally arrived in Cornwall. Tin was the mining industry of choice in Cornwall and reminders of its history still remain. The Poldark Mine is a great place to visit. An underground tin mine that is open for visitors and it's a fascinating look into the past of an industry that was once so important to the county.

Blue Hills Tin Mine, Trevellas Porth

Old Tin mine, St Agnes

Blue Hills Tin Mine Chimney, Trevellas Porth

I absolutely love Cornwall, it's a county like no other. It's beauty, heritage and tourist appeal are second to none. There are parts of Cornwall that are so magical and timeless that you feel like you have stepped back in time. I highly recommend visiting Cornwall, once you visit you will want to return again and again.