One of the things I love most about living in Cornwall is the huge range of activities available on my doorstep.
You really don’t have time to get bored here, especially in Summer! Being close to the coast and the countryside at the same time has its benefits for sure.
Active Outdoors Hobbies
Surfing
I obviously had to mention surfing didn’t I? Funnily enough, not everyone in Cornwall surfs! I don’t, and I actually don’t know many people who do… but nevertheless it’s definitely a popular pass-time here!
Kayaking
I adore kayaking; I’ve put it here in the ‘active’ section, but it really depends on how challenging you make it yourself. On a calm day you can easily float about in the Fal or around Carbis Bay without having to expend much energy at all, and just enjoy being weightless on the water!
(Because of my tiny car, I have a pair of these inflatable kayaks* – they’re honestly cooler than they sound, and they do the job perfectly for me!)
Paddle Boarding
This is really popular at the moment, and I’m seriously excited to try it this Summer! Again, it’s probably not a hugely energetic activity, but it helps to strengthen your core and tone muscles if you do it regularly, so it must be some kind of hard work, right?
Sailing
Also a popular hobby here in Cornwall for those lucky enough to have a vessel of some sort! I know nothing about boats (strange as my dad is a frequent sailor), and I get pretty bad sea sickness, but the out-to-sea sailing lifestyle does look pretty good.
Other Watersports
Kite-surfing, wind-surfing and bodyboarding are all ocean-based hobbies that are loads of fun and not too expensive to try if you’re keen. All you need is a decent wetsuit (yes guys, you do need one, this is the Atlantic we’re talking about!) and off you go!
Cycling
There are plenty of beautiful cycle trails and routes for varying abilities around Cornwall where you can see the sights whilst getting some exercise!
Hiking or Running
The possibilities for these activities are really endless; you’ve got the choice of city parks, countryside lakes, woodland trails, the beach or coastal paths – seriously stunning!
Horse-riding
If you’re of the horse-riding inclination (I’m not…) you’ve got plenty of options too. There are various riding stables dotted around where you can train or go on hacks around some beautiful areas of countryside, or even the beach!
Dog Agility
Had to include this, didn’t I? Dog agility is a fun and rewarding hobby for you and your pup, and there are lots of places to practice and train around Cornwall. At the moment, Pepper and I are doing it just for fun, but eventually I might take her to some local shows or trials; who knows!
More Relaxed Outdoors Activities
Foraging
N and I went on a foraging course last year and loved it. Arm yourself with some research, a good foraging book and a basket and head to the countryside to find some grub!
Shell/Seaglass Collecting
Interested in making art with found/foraged items, or just like collecting pretty things? Head to one of Cornwall’s many beaches in search of some weathered seaglass or shells – it sounds silly but you do get a fun buzz each time you find something beautiful in the sand!
Beach Yoga
There are several yoga groups in Cornwall who now offer classes on the beach! This looks like so much fun; I’d love to try it myself when I’ve got the time (that’s what they all say, right?). What’s more peaceful than stretching on the sand with a beautiful view?
Gardening
A fond hobby for many, gardening is something I’m not sure I’ll ever get on with. It’s a shame really, as I’d love to be someone who could say they grow their own food and live off the land! But just because I fail at it doesn’t mean you will, so give it a go.
Photography
Get to grips with your camera by getting out and taking photos of all the beautiful scenery and nature Cornwall has to offer. In fact, you don’t even need a camera, there are loads of talented Cornish Instagram-ers who take many of their photos on their phones!
Conservation
Sign up for some environmental volunteering and use your hobby to help the planet and Cornwall’s wildlife. Good karma all around!
Got more to add to the list? Comment below!
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