Outdoor activities further afield covers a very wide spectrum. What we really mean is Cornish attractions that it is worth travelling to see.
Minack Theatre
This is Cornwall’s world famous open air theatre. Sitting on the cliff, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this beautiful setting sees a full range of performance art. Concerts, Musicals, Storytelling, Opera, Drama and Comedy are all performed here. For over 80 years audiences have been kept entertained, not just by the high quality performances, but by the incredible setting of this beautiful theatre.
Sub tropical gardens, a shop, cafe and take away options are also available but its the view you will remember.
Built on the granite cliffs by Rowena Cade starting in 1931 this is a tribute to one woman’s determination and grit.
Dogs are welcome during visiting hours but not for performances
Distance 68 km TR19 6JU
Thanks to Minack Theatre for the images
Tintagel Castle
Cornwall is a land steeped in myth and legend . The most enduring legend is that of King Arthur and the Knights Of the Round Table. Welcome to Tintagel said to be the home of King Mark of Cornwall cousin to King Arthur.
As you walk up the path to the mainland courtyard it is easy to see why the Arthurian legend is so strong here . Looking at those dramatic cliff top views you can imagine that the Knights of old watched those same waves. Now cross the exciting new bridge to the island and you can be fully immersed in the atmospheric medieval surroundings. Whilst your on the island you have to have your photograph taken with the brooding figure of Gallos. This life size bronze sculpture is inspired by the legends of King Arthur and the Cornish Kings. For those of you who don`t speak Cornish Gallos means power .
It isn’t all myth, this place has history and archaeology at every step. The remains of the early medieval settlement are fascinating as this is the base from where the early Cornish Kings traded tin for exotic goods from far off countries.
Take a trip down to the beach and explore Merlin’s cave , check the tide times first as there is no life guard cover.
Back to the Beach Cafe now for some locally sourced goodies or perhaps a well earned pint.
Distance 47 km PL34 0HE
Tel. 01840 770328
Thanks to English Heritage for the images
St Michael's Mount
Keep your eye on the tides and you can visit this beautiful historic island via its causeway, or if you prefer, by ferry. Explore the castle and gardens or look around the village. Check the web site for activities including foraging and storytelling.
Distance 51 km TR17 0HS
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Visit the main convalescence pool to see the resident Grey Seals learn their story at the Seal talk. This is also where each years new pups prepare for final release back into the wild
Check out the three underwater viewing areas at the Southern Sea Lion pool, the Seal rescue centre and at Penguin beach
Each year the charity rescues an average of 70 seal pups and rehabilitates them into the wild. The sanctuary is home to Otters,Beavers, Sea Lions and Penguins. There are also a number of animals looking for forever homes such as Horses, Goats, and Sheep.
Dogs are allowed except for the hospital and the cafe (outdoor seating is available)
Distance 47 km TR12 6UG
Tel. 01326 221361
Thanks to Cornish Seal Sanctuary for the images
Lands End
Lands End has dramatic cliffs, seemingly endless seascapes, and coastal paths. It also has an abundance of bird and marine wildlife. Don’t miss the photo opportunity with the world-famous signpost. During the season, there are many pay-as-you-go attractions. These include a restaurant, 4D film shows, a children’s farm and exhibitions.
Check out the website here.
Dogs are not permitted in exhibitions, retail, or catering areas.
Distance 69 km TR19 7AA
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Fortunately, these fabulous gardens have now been re-found and refurbished. Visit the productive garden, which grows over 300, mainly heritage edibles for the kitchen and bakery (your chance to taste history). The woodlands have 60 acres to explore or check out the only outdoor jungle in Cornwall, with its Burmese rope bridge. With a history stretching back 200 years, walk through the pleasure gardens or check out the farm animals.
With 200 acres to explore, you and your dog will be kept busy.
Go to the website to fully appreciate what is available. Make sure you do not miss any of the events during your stay.
Thanks to The Lost Gardens of Heligan for the images
Distance 32 km PL26 6EN
Kernow Coasteering (Rock Climbing Cornwall)
I was born in Manchester, so I had easy access to the high crags of the Peak District and the Lake District. Back in the day, I spent many weekends on some slab of rock or other and so I can thoroughly recommend the sport of rock climbing.
Cornwall has not got much in the way of mountains, but it does have some fantastic granite sea cliffs. Kernow Coasteering offers a range of climbing sessions for all experience levels. Their experienced guides will lead you to places most people never see.
Kernow Coasteering will take you on a trip to remember when you are old and grey. There won’t be any visiting nice little tea rooms and pastie shops between climbs on this trip. You will need to take any food and drink you want with you. Check with them about what clothes to wear and what to take with you before you go.
All the specialist equipment you need will be provided.
Shorts and T-Shirts are probably not going to be appropriate.
Tel. 07734 343954
Distance 51 Km TR13 9TS
Thanks to Kernow Coasteering for the images