We moved to the other campsite, closer to St Ives on day three. But before that, we have decided to upgrade our tent. Sleeping as a family of three in a small tent and having wet days wasn't working for us. So I googled the nearest shop with camping gear, and after packing and having breakfast, we went straight to Truro. The plan was to get a larger tent and return to Newquay for a family day out.
Truro
Truro, as turns out, is the capital of Cornwall. It is a beautiful city, has plenty of character and old buildings. We stayed between Lemon and Back quay. Here we found a naked drummer's statue next to the Hall for Cornwall. Something tells me these two are connected.
As much as I like the view of the "goods" on display, I enjoy architecture just a touch more. So back to the Hall of Cornwall. The building is an excellent example of the Italianate style, and a grade II listed too. It was used as a skating rink, cinema, theatre, and even as a market at some point in its history. Not to mention, the building was the first concert venue for the legendary music group Queen! These days, it serves as an events venue. I wish I could see the interior.
Turning into Lemon St, we found the royal coat of arms above the entrance to the hotel. The motto seemed to have been written in Cornish.
Our final turn into Boscawen St brought us to the war memorial. The soldier stood perfectly against the neutral sky with a seagull proudly sitting on its head. With that quick stroll, we left the city with a new tent, all happy and ready to have some fun in Newquay.
Newquay
A fun family day out was long overdue. And as much as I love seeing every old building, I had to think about the interests of others. So we headed to the Trenance Gardens near the viaduct. There were many attractions in this area, like the zoo and skate park, leisure centre and boats. We have chosen to go for the Little Western Railway and the crazy footgolf.
Little Western Railway is a miniature train for the little kids. It takes them around the green area with ponds and a tunnel. I don't find this kind of entertainment often, and I was glad to take my kid to experience it. The driver was a very kind person and kept the little passengers amused.
Right next to the Little Western Railway is the children's playground. Guess what we did next! Of course, we stayed here for a bit. But then we convinced the little one to try the crazy footgolf.
I am not sure why it says "footgolf" because we did not use our feet, and the ball was not a football but an ordinary golf ball. However, it was fun never the less.
Viaduct near the playground
Carnewas at Bedruthan
In the evening, the family was ready to do what I came to Cornwall for - sightseeing! We drove to the Carnewas at Bedruthan. It is part of the National Trust which means a well-kept area and parking.
I hoped for some tea and cake, but unfortunately, the place was already closed by 6 pm. Toilets too. It was absolutely empty.
We paid for the car park and followed the path to the giant rocks for which this place is famous. The walk was easy, with steps going down to the cliff staircase. You could enjoy the beautiful vistas from far!
When I researched the area, I bought the idea of the cliff staircase. I wasn't sure what to expect other than the steep stairs leading to the beach and the beautiful vistas. In reality, stairs were carved into the cliffs like a zigzag snake, opening a low-key view onto the rocks. The tide was high, covering the beach with strong waves. The dramatic weather conditions and the tide made for beautiful images, but I wish I could have walked on the beach. That was my selling point to the little one who carried a bucket and a shovel. He was incredibly disappointed. And so was I.
Instead of building the sandcastles, my son played with the pebbles. I am not sure how, but we spend here one and a half hours before calling it a day.
All in all, the view from the cliff is spectacular and the pathway looks tidy with markings for the coastal hike. So well worth the visit! Just take it from me, come here during the day and check the tide times!
To be continued...
Read more:
Day 1, Cornwall #1 - Setting in
Day 2, Cornwall #1 - Eden Project