10 amazing hidden gems in Cornwall

As a frequent visitor to Cornwall, I’ve always adored its rich history, picturesque villages, and rugged coastlines.

The county’s popular attractions draw visitors all year round nowadays, so there’s no escape from the ‘tourist season’ – but I have my own secrets!  

Over the years, I’ve discovered some truly enchanting locations off the beaten path. Here’s my handpicked round-up of 10 amazing hidden gems in Cornwall for your next visit.

Map of hidden gems in Cornwall

Use the map below to see where all my favourite secret spots in Cornwall are located:

1. St. Nectan’s Glen

Cornwall is actually home to a number of impressive waterfalls, and one of my favourites stands at 20 metres high in St. Nectan’s Glen.

The cascading water flowing through circular rock formations is a mesmerising sight.

It took nature thousands of years to carve out this masterpiece we know as the Kieve or Pothole Waterfall.    

Back in the day, the Celts considered St. Nectan’s Glen sacred grounds. They believed that it was a place of healing and spiritual renewal.

Today, you can still enjoy the scenic walkways along the banks of the River Trevillet, knowing that it’s on its way to the sea at Rocky Valley.

2. Trebah Garden

The Eden Project usually gets all the attention, but you shouldn’t miss Trebah Garden.

It’s a 26-acre subtropical paradise situated near Falmouth. The garden’s unique microclimate has created an incredibly diverse assortment of plants. 

As you walk through the garden, you can admire the giant gunneras, rare rhododendrons, and towering bamboo.

The promenade leads to the picturesque private beach on the Helford River, where you can have a memorable picnic, or just relax and enjoy the view.

3. Minions

It’s hard not to think of the little yellow cartoon characters when we say ‘Minions’, but that’s not what I’m referring to here!

Minions is a village on Bodmin Moor, and it’s one of Cornwall’s most dramatic destinations. 

This ancient village is wrapped in mystery with its geological structures and historic engine houses.

The most prominent is The Hurlers, which is a set of three huge stone circles that easily dominate the landscape. They date back to the Bronze Age, around 1500 BC.

Nearby, you can find the Cheesewring, which is another rock formation created from centuries of climatic chiselling and crafting. 

The precariousness of this stack of granite slabs is quite interesting, and its function is a matter of speculation and urban legends.

The one I like best claims that giants had built it long, long ago. Wouldn’t that be fascinating!    

4. St. Just in Roseland Church

Imagine being around a church that’s often described as one of the most beautiful places of worship in the UK.

That’s what you’ll find when you see the grandeur and architectural genius of St. Just in Roseland Church.

The church was built in the 13th century, on the edge of a tidal creek, off the Carrick Roads. This stunning setting adds to its serenity and spirituality.

The surrounding gardens were added in the 19th century, and they contain an impressive collection of semi tropical plants.

Don’t miss the most exquisite stained glass windows of the church, depicting portraits of local saints. 

5. Charlestown

Charlestown is a perfectly preserved Georgian port, and walking into it feels like stepping back in time.

The Harbour is home to a fleet of tall ships, and this scenic location has been used as a filming location for many TV shows. 

The Shipwreck Treasure Museum is also worth a visit. It contains a formidable collection of artefacts recovered from hundreds of shipwrecks.

6. The Rumps

If you’re dreaming about a spectacular walk along the famous Cornwall coastline, then you should head to The Rumps in Wadebridge.

The Rumps is a twin-headed promontory that offers a breathtaking view of the Atlantic.

Here you can watch seals basking languidly on the rocks below. You may even be lucky to spot a dolphin or basking shark peeking out of the water, so keep your eyes peeled!

An Iron-Age cliff castle resides on this ancient headland, adding drama and dominance to the place.

The remains of its ramparts are still visible to this day. It’s believed that this fort dates back to 300 BC, and it was a prominent defence point up until 100 AD. 

7. Tintagel Old Post Office

Tintagel Old Post Office is a 14th-century yeoman’s farmhouse. Interestingly, it wasn’t used as a post office for too long.

But it’s an intriguing property that’s well-preserved and carefully managed by the National Trust. It offers a fascinating glimpse into mediaeval Cornish life.

Tintagel Old Post Office’s exterior reveals its age and resilience. I particularly like its wavy slate roof. The undulating look resulted from constructing it with unseasoned timber.

I was also fascinated by the rooms of the Tintagel Old Post Office, and how each room reflects a different era. It’s like a story going from the Tudor era to Victorian times.  

8. Trerice House

Trerice is a hidden architectural gem built in the 16th century. It’s an Elizabethan manor house located near Newquay. 

The Arundell family built Trerice House following the compact ‘E-plan’, which isn’t surprising as that was the popular design among the gentry of the time.

Its intricate details, lavish furniture, and fine textiles are definitely worth seeing.  

Avid gardeners will love the gardens outside, and the knot garden and kitchen garden are beautifully illustrative of Tudor and Elizabethan tastes. 

9. Chapel Porth

This secluded cove near St Agnes is my secret hideaway from the summer crowds.

Chapel Porth is the perfect blend of natural beauty, mining heritage, and Cornwall’s unparalleled coastal life. 

When the tides are low, you can walk on the golden sands and explore the rock pools. The beach extends for about a mile, but you can take a break at the beach cafe. 

If you continue walking all the way to the cliff top, you’ll be rewarded with picturesque views of the whole area.

I strongly recommend trying the ‘hedgehog’ ice cream, which is among the best in Cornwall. It’s vanilla ice cream rolled in clotted cream and hazelnuts. Delicious!

10. Minack Theatre

Reaching the Minack Theatre is literally like finding a gem! It’s carved into the cliffs near Porthcurno. You can only access it from the side of the cliff, and after ascending numerous stairs.   

The Minack is more than just a theatre; it’s also a subtropical garden. 

The sheltered, south-facing cliffs, and Cornwall’s mild climate, have allowed the growth of a variety of exotic plants, including succulents, palm trees, and South African flora.

It was Rowena Cade who dreamed up this theatre and began its construction in 1931. If you can, try to catch a performance in this open-air theatre for a memorable experience.

Even if you don’t catch a show, the trip is still worth it as the views are priceless!  

Have you visited any of these hidden gems in Cornwall? Or do you have any others to add to the list? Let me know in the comments below!

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful region of the UK, check out my guides before you go:

• 16 best spots for afternoon tea in Cornwall
• 15 amazing seafood restaurants in Cornwall
• 12 dreamy spa breaks in Cornwall
• 14 gorgeous places to go paddleboarding in Cornwall
• 21 things to do in Cornwall in the rain
• 10 luxury hotels in Cornwall
• 10 best towns in Cornwall for a UK staycation