St Agnes

St Agnes is a characterful north coast village with a strong creative, surfy and local feel. It has independent shops, pubs, cafés and access to some of Cornwall’s most dramatic coastal scenery, making it a brilliant base for both beach days and walking holidays.

Trevaunance Cove is the main beach, tucked below the village between steep cliffs. It is great for rock-pooling, paddling, swimming and surfing when conditions are right, though the sea can be powerful, so it is always best to follow lifeguard guidance and local signage. Nearby Chapel Porth is another beautiful beach, backed by a steep valley and mining remains.

For food and drink, The Taphouse is a lively year-round option in Peterville, known for its laid-back atmosphere, drinks and casual dining. It is a good choice after a beach walk or surf, especially if you want somewhere relaxed rather than overly formal. Taste fresh bread and pasties at St Agnes Bakery, or award-winning pizza at the Cornish Pizza Company.

A seaside holiday requires fresh fish and chips. St Agnes has those too with a quality chip shop that has been there for over 50 years. Or at nearby Trevaunance Cove is Schooners, a relaxed, local beachside café with simply delicious locally-sourced food and live music.

Walking is one of St Agnes’s best bits. The coast path from Trevaunance Cove towards Chapel Porth is spectacular, passing cliffs, sea views and mining heritage around Wheal Coates. For a longer outing, continue towards Porthtowan or head the other way towards Perranporth for big Atlantic views and wild north coast scenery. The Chapel Porth to St Agnes route is around 9.8 km as an out-and-back, with a fair amount of ascent, so sturdy footwear is useful.