Perranporth Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and practical information for a trip to Perranporth, Cornwall.


Introduction to Perranporth

Located in Cornwall, in the West Country of England, Perranporth is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the region. It boasts beautiful beaches, scenic views, and a rich cultural history that makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

This comprehensive guide will give you an in-depth understanding of everything you need to know for planning a trip to Perranporth. From the best places to visit to the local culture and customs, this guide has got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Perranporth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Perranzabuloe Museum: This small museum is dedicated to the history of the local area, with exhibits showcasing the mining and agricultural heritage of Cornwall.
  • St Piran’s Oratory: This 6th-century chapel is believed to be one of the oldest Christian sites in the country.
  • Wheal Coates Tin Mine: This historic mine is a symbol of Cornwall’s mining heritage and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Natural Attractions of Perranporth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Perranporth Beach: With its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Perranporth Beach is among the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall. It’s also the perfect spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
  • South West Coast Path: One of the UK’s most beautiful long-distance hiking routes, the South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
  • Perranporth Golf Club: Take in the stunning views while playing a round of golf at the Perranporth Golf Club.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Perranporth

  • Cornwall Coast Path: This 630-mile trail is one of the UK’s most beautiful hiking routes, passing through small fishing villages, surf spots, and ancient sites.
  • St Agnes to Perranporth Trail: This 5-mile trail takes you through the beautiful Cornish countryside, with views of the coastline along the way.

Best Things to Do in Perranporth: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing: Perranporth is home to some of the best surf spots in the UK, with plenty of surf schools offering lessons for beginners.
  • Coasteering: Experience the Cornish coastline from a unique perspective by trying coasteering. It involves jumping into the sea, swimming, and exploring the coastline.
  • Sea kayaking: Explore the coastline and see the natural beauty of Perranporth from the sea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Perranporth

Day Activity
1 Visit Perranzabuloe Museum, St Piran’s Oratory, and Wheal Coates Tin Mine
2 Spend a day on Perranporth Beach, swimming and sunbathing
3 Hike along the South West Coast Path
4 Take a surfing lesson
5 Explore the countryside with a biking tour
6 Try coasteering for a thrilling adventure
7 Take a sea kayaking tour

Food and Drink Scene of Perranporth

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish pasty: A famous local savory pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Cream tea: A classic English afternoon tea, consisting of scones, clotted cream, and jam.
  • Cornish ice cream: Made from locally sourced dairy products, Cornish ice cream is a must-try treat.

Local Beverages

  • Cornish cider: Refreshing and tangy, Cornish cider is a perfect drink for a summer day.
  • St Austell Brewery beers: The award-winning beers brewed by St Austell Brewery are a must-try for any beer lover.
  • Camel Valley wine: This local wine is praised for its exceptional quality and flavor.

Where to Stay in Perranporth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Seiners Arms: This historic inn is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the sea.
  • Tywarnhayle Inn: A cozy and welcoming inn, perfect for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
  • The Watering Hole: An iconic hotel built into the cliffs above Perranporth Beach, it features stunning sea views and live music events.

What to Buy in Perranporth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish fudge: Sweet and creamy, Cornish fudge makes a perfect gift or a comforting treat for yourself.
  • Cornishware: This distinctive blue-and-white striped ceramic collection is a must-buy for anyone who loves quirky and unique design.
  • Cornish sea salt: Harvested from the Cornish coastline, this gourmet sea salt is a perfect choice for a foodie souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Perranporth

Perranporth is a part of Cornwall, which has a distinct culture and cultural heritage. Cornish is recognized as a minority language in the UK, and many people in Cornwall are proud of their Cornish heritage. It’s worth learning a few Cornish phrases, such as “dreckly” (meaning “soon” or “in a bit”). Cornish music and dance are also an important part of the Cornish culture.

Best Time to Visit Perranporth

The best time to visit Perranporth is between late spring and early autumn, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are perfect for swimming and surfing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Perranporth

Do:

  • Try surfing, coasteering, or sea kayaking.
  • Take a walk along the South West Coast Path.
  • Explore the Cornish countryside with biking or hiking trails.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in the countryside.
  • Ignore the warning signs on the beaches indicating any potential dangers.
  • Ignore the traffic rules while driving or biking around Perranporth.

Safety and Health

Safety in Perranporth

The beaches in Perranporth can be dangerous at times due to strong currents and sudden changes in the tides. Always follow warning signs and guidelines issued by the lifeguards while swimming or surfing. During hiking or biking trips, keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

Health in Perranporth

As a coastal town, Perranporth is at a low risk for most health issues. However, it’s important to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun during hot and sunny days.

Getting to Perranporth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Perranporth

There are two major airports located within two hours drive from Perranporth:

  • Newquay Cornwall Airport: The closest airport to Perranporth, with several daily flights from different UK cities.
  • Bristol Airport: Located two hours away from Perranporth and offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Perranporth

Regular bus services operate from nearby towns and cities including Newquay, Truro, and St Austell.

Other Options

Driving is one of the best ways to explore Cornwall, and hiring a car is a popular choice for many visitors to Perranporth.

How to Get Around in Perranporth

A car is the easiest way to get around Perranporth and the surrounding area. It provides access to the countryside and sites that are difficult to reach by public transport. Alternatively, walking, biking, and public transport are all good ways to get around the town itself.

Where to Go Next from Perranporth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Newquay

Newquay is a popular seaside town known for its surf scene, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches.

St Ives

St Ives is a picturesque fishing village known for its art galleries, stunning beaches, and quaint harbor.

Truro

Truro is the capital city of Cornwall and has an impressive cathedral, museums, and shopping areas.

Conclusion

Perranporth is a beautiful, unspoiled coastal town that offers an unforgettable experience to visitors. From its stunning coastline to its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in this charming destination. Follow this comprehensive guide to make the most of your trip to Perranporth, Cornwall.