I get so many questions from people wanting to move to Cornwall about what it’s like in different areas.
But obviously I can really only speak from my own experience and where I’ve lived myself! It’s so hard to give advice on other places where I may have only visited myself for a few hours or days. Living somewhere is totally different.
So I’ve gathered up some folks from all corners of Cornwall to give their thoughts about living in their area:
^ Gylly beach in Falmouth
Falmouth
“My favourite thing about Falmouth is definitely the beaches and coastal walks. We’ve got water pretty much surrounding us, so no matter where you go, there’s always a beautiful view!
The worst thing is probably how crowded the roads can get in the summer… but thats me being very picky! There isn’t much that’s bad about falmouth.
My favourite place to eat is Olivers, but it’s quite up market and fancy so I don’t go often. The Chain Locker is a lovely pub to hang out in, and Ploy Thai does excellent Thai food! Gylly beach café also can’t be missed off the list, just because it is such a lovely place to sit and chat, especially on a sunny hot day in the summer!”
– Olivia, Photographer
^ Truro cathedral
Truro
“My favourite thing about living in Truro is how central it is to everywhere else in Cornwall; beaches, woods, river walks. And although it is a ‘city’ it still feels cosy and homely. It is full of character; cobbled streets mixed with little boutiques and bars.
The worst thing are the roadworks! Truro is ever evolving, and like a lot of places in Cornwall new houses are being thrown up and squashed in, constantly expanding the town. This is great for Truro’s economy and local businesses but not so great for Cornwall’s main hospital which is bursting at it’s seams.
My favourite places to hang out – you will often find me mountain biking in Idless woods, a mile or so away from the centre. Also down at the Heron Inn in Malpas. There’s also Trelissick Gardens just a short bike ride away, and the Bissoe cycle trail which leads to the coast at Porthtowan. My favourite spots to eat & drink are Truro Lounge, 1652 Donut & Coffee House, Sonder, Craftworks & the Thomas Daniell.”
– Holly (check out her Instagram!)
^ Charlestown, St Austell
St. Austell
“Like most places, they can have good and bad points. St Austell has come on leaps and bounds over the years with the developments from White River Place shopping Centre. They have held a number of events and activities such as live music performances, charity events and things for children to draw the community together which can make your shopping experience different.
However, my favourite part of St Austell is just outside the town in Charlestown. It is incredibly beautiful and picturesque, with the Cornish houses lined up overlooking the harbour. Nothing beats having a newspaper full of chips overlooking the boats and glistening blue waters as warm rays of sunshine hit the waves. You can feel a million miles away but still feel at home. The quaint antique shops are charming and really fun to look at. You never know what you may find.
I would recommend going to visit just before tourist season so you can enjoy some weather and have a better chance for parking because if you’re like me, I don’t like busy areas. But Charlestown is a really beautiful place. There are a couple of cafe’s and pubs to get refreshments and other delights, but I don’t think you can beat a bag of chips and an ice cream sat on a bench looking at the sea.
Worst thing is in tourist season the roads are incredibly congested.”
– Zoe (check out her Instagram!)
^ St. Mawes, in The Roseland, by Rachel
The Roseland
“The best thing about living on The Roseland peninsula is not having to go far for a morning swim or SUP. Swinging on the beach with an ice cream. And being able to see the stars at night!
The worst thing? When you’ve caught the ferry to Uni in Falmouth, then find out you can’t get back, because a storm decides to make an appearance!
My favourite things to do here include sailing out of the harbour, anchoring up at The Lighthouse Beach and enjoying a picnic on the water!”
– Rachel (check out her Instagram!)
^ Royal William Yard (via Wikimedia)
Saltash/Liskeard (nr. Tamar bridge/Devon border)
“I love the proximity to the rest of the UK here, and being so close to the sea and Dartmoor, but also a big city that has everything (Plymouth).
The worst thing is that it doesn’t have the same Cornish seaside town feel, and the beaches are better elsewhere in Cornwall.
My favourite place to eat/hang out is either heading 10 mins down the road to Royal William Yard or there is a great pub in our village! Saltash has some nice cafes too.
My best tips would be that it takes no time at all to get into Plymouth, and house prices are hugely reduced by being over this side of the Tamar, and for living in the middle of the countryside surrounded by fields.”
– Alice, Blogger (Wooden Windowsills)
^ Great Western Beach, Newquay
Newquay
“My favourite thing has gotta be just the sheer number of beaches at my doorstep. Newquay has about 7 beaches, and they’re all within walking distance. That, alongside the perfect views and coves of Bedruthen Steps, it makes a perfect place to live for someone who likes to adventure in the outdoors like me.
The worst thing has probably got to be the tourists during peak summer. Newquay is notorious for attracting tourism during June, July and August and I would recommend people to stay away during those months if you want a quiet break away.
My favourite place to eat? That’s easy! WAX on Bank Street is a fantastic little place, just in the centre of town. With a fantastic menu and location, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat midway through an adventure!”
– Dean (check out his Instagram!)
^ Portreath, nr. Redruth
Redruth
“Although Redruth is not the most appreciated town in Cornwall, it has its quirks. I mean, it has a new Aldi, a run down night club that people still can’t get enough of, an incredibly steep hill running through the main street and an illuminated clock… what’s not to like?
But being serious, it’s actually in a great position to go out and visit nearby treasures such as Portreath (my all time favourite spot), North Cliffs, Hayle, St Ives and also Truro – your only place for a decent shop! It’s always comforting to know you’re just 5 minutes away from the beach.
It also has a train station which is really convenient. And if you’re considering moving to Cornwall, it’s a good option to consider due to it’s low house prices compared to other areas.
If you’re a brunch and coffee lover like myself, I would highly recommend Baker Tom’s nearby. Just please don’t have a pasty here, save that for Cornish Oven.
And lastly, the Regal cinema is also one thing I couldn’t leave out. For a Cornish cinema, it’s pretty good and it’s always a lovely last minute trip on a rainy afternoon or evening.”
– Hannah, Blogger (Oh January)
^ Penzance Harbour
Penzance
“I have lots of favourite things about Penzance. One is simply being a town perched on this incredible aquamarine bay with a view of the mount. It never gets old.
I love the art culture here – it’s relaxed and eclectic and there’s some great cultural festivals like golowan and Montol that really bring the community together. I love all of the Art Deco architecture – in particular the salt water lido and the fact that there’s so many thriving independent shops. You could easily survive in PZ without going to the super market 🙂 But I just love how quirky the place is overall, it’s really unique and has such an exciting history and vibe.
I think the worst thing is either the fact that the town needs a really good jet wash, or that it’s the end of the line which means we’ve got quite a bad homeless problem here which is quite sad. Also, market Jew street has some empty shops which could house some great independent businesses if the rent was lower for them rather than just keeping them empty.
There’s so many great spots in PZ. My favourite place to eat and hang out would be the Jubilee pool cafe – their food is great and you can’t beat the view. Also, Tremenhere sculpture kitchen does hands down the best Sunday roast of my life. The Newlyn film house is the best cinema in Cornwall (literally In a converted fish factory!) and also The Cornish Barn is possibly the best place for a fancy, atmospheric evening meal. Go to the Admiral Benbow if you’re looking for a charismatic historic pub that’s literally made out of a ship. I also like to hang out and get work done at The Terrace, Newlyn Art Exchange and The Front Room cafe 🙂 Archie Browns is a vegetarian cafe which does the best breakfast in town.”
^ Coverack, The Lizard
The Lizard
“My favourite thing about living right near the Lizard is the countryside and coastlines literally on our doorstep. There is often a different weather front; if it’s raining in Falmouth then it’s sure to be sunny over the Lizard way.
The worst thing about where I live has to be the journey times, it takes ages to get to some places even though they are really not that far away, so trips out of the immediate area become more like an event.
My current favourite spots to eat are The Shipwrights Arms in Helford for lunch with a serene view or Poldhu Café on the beach for breakfast or an afternoon drink – they do the best hot chocolates!
The best place to watch the sunset is Gunwallow Beach, we often chase sunsets from Kynance Cove to there and finish with a hot chocolate on the beach. One of our favourite beach walks is Kennack Sands which is beautiful at anytime of year. My favourite short stroll is the walk around Poltesco its such a pretty spot!
The best way to experience a little of the Lizard area is to start at Gweek, work your way down to the Helford for a little stroll, pop down to Coverack for an ice cream from Archies Loft near the harbour, carry on through to Kynance Cove to take in the views then drive up to either Poldhu or Gunwallow to watch the sunset and perhaps some food at The Halzephron Inn.”
Obviously I’m missing a few towns and areas, but these are the main ones I get asked about and this post was already getting rather long! I’m definitely missing a few important places like St. Ives, Hayle, Lands End, Bude, Padstow/Wadebridge, Bodmin etc.
However, I’d love to hear your thoughts on your own area in Cornwall in the comments below – as it may help others with an important life decision!
Can anyone tell me what pond lane redruff is like please got a chance of moving to Cornwall heard not very good things also Redruff itself would realky appreciate
I live in Townsend between Hayle n Penzance. I have the best of both worlds the beaches of Hayle n St Ives one way and Marizion Praa Sands both within 8-10mins, however i live in a countryside setting, uninterupted views across the valley with engine house n Tregonning hill in the view, with a self sufficient garden, orchard, raised beds, a south facing garden sun 7am-7pm with large entertaining space, it has it all!
Any insights on living in Helston? Thanks 😊
I wonder if anyone knows what Lanner Hill is like … and I what Redruth is like 🤔 any help would be most appreciated
In two years I will be eighty. I left London six years ago, but I’m not very comfortable here in Stroud Gloucestershire. With daughter now down on the Lizard at St Keverne I’ve looked at Helston but am now also considering Truro. It won’t be nightlife or restaurants that I’ll be looking for but being able to walk to the centre, cinema and coffee and cake. I really liked the water and little bridges and what seems to be a mediaeval street pattern. Love buildings and the opportunity to attend choral evensong daily is a great draw.
Any encouragement and information would be appreciated.
Many thanks.
I don’t live in Truro but visited a fortnight ago. You’ll get all you asked for, with one caveat: if you want/need to use the train, you’ve got a walk uphill! It’s only 5-10 minutes back up from the city centre (depending on how fast you walk), but I’d suggest that for those of you aged 80+ it’s something to consider. Of course, there’ll be buses (there’s got to be!) and taxis, so not a massive problem. But if you’re reliant on Shanks’s pony, it’s a relevant point.