Top attractions to visit within an hour of Crantock Bay Apartments
There’s so much to see and do around Cornwall, from spectacular vantage points, to theme parks, wildlife attractions to horticultural spectacles – you’ll never be short of things to do!
With temperatures rising and the school holidays just around the corner, we thought we’d share just some of our favourite attractions to visit within an hour of us here at Crantock Bay Apartments.
The Eden Project
Spanning 35 acres, the stunning global gardens at the Eden Project offer an unforgettable experience to visitors. Explore the two spectacular biomes which house the largest rainforest in captivity as well as Mediterranean landscapes home to a wide range of exotic plants. Add to that the vibrant gardens outside, a variety of fantastic eateries and fascinating exhibitions and you can be sure of a great day out.
The Screech Owl Sanctuary
A haven for sick and injured owls, the Screech Owl Sanctuary houses one of the largest collections of owls in the south west, with over 40 species from all over the world. The perfect place to learn about these beautiful birds, you’ll even have the unique opportunity to meet a number that are hand-tame. Other animals at the sanctuary include emus, meerkats, alpacas, pygmy goats and Shetland ponies.
Bodmin Jail
Explore the cold, dark cells that were once home to the jail’s prisoners and get an idea of the lonely lives they led as hard labour and hunger awaited them each day. Steeped in both social and architectural history, visitors can wander through the depths of the jail where you’ll find creative exhibits depicting penal life in Victorian Cornwall. You’ll even find the only working execution pit in the country, which was discovered during renovations in 2005.
Bedruthan Steps
One of the most popular places to visit in Cornwall, taking a trip to Bedruthan Steps during your time in the county is a must. Look out over the huge rock stacks and enjoy the spectacular views out to sea, before heading off on one of the many walks or trails in the area – the perfect way to explore this stretch of the spectacular north Cornwall coast.
Photo by Robert Pittman
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Previously lost beneath a tangle of weeds for decades, it was in 1990 that the derelict gardens were discovered by Tim Smit and John Willis – starting the restoration process that still continues to this day.
As a visitor, step back in time and explore one of the most loved and romantic gardens in the UK. Over 200 acres are now a paradise and well worth a visit.
Photo by Daderot
Camel Creek Adventure Park
The perfect day out with the kids, you’ll find a great range of wild rides, new attractions and masses of indoor entertainment at this all-weather theme park. Younger children will love the Safari Train, whilst older kids will enjoy the various rides available. For the horse lovers out there don’t miss the opportunity to meet the Shires who call the park home.
Restormel Castle
Once a luxurious retreat for its medieval owners, Restormel Castle stands amid beautiful countryside, enjoying spectacular views across the valley of the River Fowey. Make your way around the castle and you’ll find hints of its opulent past, from the high windows and large fireplaces to the Great Hall that would have once been used for large gatherings. Take a walk around the inside of the keep and you’ll be able to imagine castle life bustling below you.
Healey’s Cyder Farm
For anyone with a love of cider, a trip to Healey’s Cyder Farm is a must! As award-winning makers of ciders, wines, spirits and preserves, you’ll find plenty of fantastic food and drink to sample – as well as lots of other family fun. Don’t miss the guided tour which will take you through the press house, jam factory, museum, distillery, and cellars, ending up with an aerial view of the cider production halls. The kids will also love taking a tractor ride through the beautiful orchards.
Newquay Zoo
Ready to meet over 1,000 of the world’s rarest and most endangered animals? From lions to songbirds, meerkats to snakes you’ll find plenty of amazing species at Cornwall’s biggest zoo. During your visit you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy exciting keeper talks, activity trails, the Dragon maze and much more.
Blue Reef Aquarium
Taking visitors on a journey from the Cornish coasts to the exotic seas, the Blue Reef Aquarium has 40 naturally-themed habitats to see, housing a variety of fascinating creatures. These range from those you’d find in a Cornish rockpool, to Black Tip Reef Sharks – and even a Giant Pacific Octopus. With daily events and feeding to watch – visitors can come and go from the aquarium as they please with their day pass, allowing you to pop back to watch the events you don’t want to miss.
Photo by Nilfanion
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