Cornwall, located in the southwest of England, is a popular vacation spot known for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and rich history.
Recently, the county has made headlines for the reintroduction of beavers to its rivers and wetlands, which has been hailed as a conservation success story.
Here are some things to do in Cornwall that allow visitors to experience these remarkable animals and learn more about the efforts to protect them.
Visit the Tamar Otter and Beaver Visitor Centre
This popular attraction is located near the border of Devon and Cornwall, and offers visitors the chance to see beavers and otters up close.
You can learn about the conservation efforts that have helped to bring both species back from the brink of extinction, and see them in action in their natural habitats. There are also a variety of other wildlife exhibits and activities on offer, making this a great option for families.
Take a Beaver-Watching Tour
Many tour operators in Cornwall now offer guided beaver-watching trips, which take you out on the water to see the beavers in their natural habitat. You’ll learn about their behavior, how they interact with other animals, and how they’ve impacted the local ecosystem.
Explore the Wetlands
The wetlands of Cornwall are an important habitat for beavers and other wildlife, and are also a great place to explore. The RSPB’s Tamar Lakes Nature Reserve is a beautiful place to visit and offers a variety of walks and trails that take you through the wetlands.
You can also look out for other wildlife such as otters, waterfowl, and kingfishers.
Visit the Cornwall Beaver Project
The Cornwall Beaver Project is a research and conservation organization that works to protect and study beavers in the county.
They offer a variety of activities and events, such as guided walks and talks, that allow visitors to learn more about the beavers and the work being done to protect them.
Attend an Event or Festival
There are a number of festivals and events throughout the year that focus on beavers and other wildlife in Cornwall.
For example, the Tamar Valley Beaver Festival is a popular event that takes place annually and celebrates the beavers and the work being done to protect them. The festival offers a variety of activities, talks, and guided walks that allow visitors to learn more about the beavers and their impact on the local ecosystem.
Try out the Local Cuisine
Cornwall is not only known for its beautiful landscapes, but also for its delicious local cuisine. Here are some other things to do in Cornwall that focus on the area’s delicious food and drinks:
Sample Traditional Cornish Pasties
Cornish pasties are a traditional local dish made from pastry filled with meat and/or vegetables. The traditional meat pasty is usually filled with beef, potatoes, onions and swede. They can be found at most local bakeries and are a perfect snack to take with you on a hike or day out.
In addition to traditional bakeries, many restaurants and cafes in Cornwall are now also offering vegan pasties on their menus. These vegan pasties are a delicious way to enjoy the traditional taste and texture of a Cornish pasty while also sticking to a plant-based diet.
Try Some Cornish Cider
Cornwall is home to a number of cider makers, who produce a variety of delicious ciders using local apples. You can visit a cider farm to learn about the production process and sample different types of cider.
Many pubs and restaurants in Cornwall also serve local ciders and it’s worth asking the server for suggestions or recommendations
Visit a Distillery or Brewery
Numerous distilleries and breweries that produce a range of delicious spirits and beers can be found in Cornwall. Some of them offer tours and tastings, where you can learn about the production process and sample their products.
Have an Afternoon Tea
Cornwall is also known for its cream teas. A traditional cream tea consists of scones, jam and cream, paired with a cup of tea. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day exploring the county’s beautiful landscapes and enjoy a delicious sweet treat.
Visit Local Attractions
In addition to the delicious food and drink options that Cornwall has to offer, there are also many other exciting things to see and do in the county. Here are a few additional suggestions of things to do in Cornwall:
Visit St. Michael’s Mount
This beautiful island is located off the coast of Cornwall and is accessible by foot at low tide. The island is home to a medieval castle and a charming village, and offers beautiful views of the surrounding coast.
Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, explore the village, and enjoy a cup of tea or a meal in the island’s cafe.
Explore the Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle is a historic castle located on the coast of Cornwall that is steeped in legend and mystery. The castle is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur and was built in the 13th century.
Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and learn about its history, take a guided tour, or walk along the coastal path to enjoy the stunning views.
Visit The Eden Project
The Eden Project is a large visitor attraction in Cornwall that is dedicated to the environment and sustainability. The project features a number of large biomes, which house plants from around the world.
Visitors can learn about different ecosystems, see plants and wildlife up close, and enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits and activities.
Visit The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a restored garden located in Cornwall. The garden was rediscovered in the late 20th century after it fell into disrepair and has since been restored to its former glory.
Visitors can explore the different areas of the garden, including the Victorian pleasure gardens, the Jungle and the upper gardens.
Visit the Tate St Ives
Tate St Ives is a modern art gallery located in the town of St Ives. The gallery is home to a permanent collection of works by artists associated with St Ives, as well as temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.
It’s a great way to experience the town’s artistic heritage and discover contemporary art.
Conclusion
Cornwall offers a wealth of things to see and do, from natural beauty, ancient historical sites and also art, culture, and entertainment. There are plenty of options to suit all interests and ages, so you can be sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful county. The return of beavers to the area is an exciting development for both conservationists and visitors alike. With a range of opportunities to learn about and explore these fascinating animals, there are plenty of reasons to visit Cornwall, explore this beautiful county and discover the beaver’s story.
