Surf’s up!

Head to Newquay on the North Atlantic coast of Cornwall and you’re likely to encounter bronzed surf dudes, as the town’s population swells to 100,000 in summer. Drawn by ten long sandy beaches (and a healthy tourist economy to go with it) the town has reinvented itself in recent years – with a lively nightlife and decent eateries to boot.

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Must see:
Learn surf lingo, dude, and head to the legendary Fistral Beach, centre of the town’s surfing community and home to many an international surf competition.

Must eat at:
Fifteen Cornwall, on Watergate Bay between Newquay and Padstow, isn’t just an exciting restaurant with a brilliant view. It gives disadvantaged young people from around Cornwall the chance to build exceptional careers in the restaurant business. And that’s worth raising a glass to.

Must be there for:
The town’s Run to the Sun festival at the end of May brings a laid-back VW-loving crowd of Camper Van and Beetle enthusiasts, with surf dudes, DJs and live music all in the mix.

Well-travelled tips:
Avoid long waits at Par station for the branch line connection to Newquay by checking times in advance - as trains are limited to just a few a day.
Check out Tunnels Through Time for an immersive guide to Cornwall history, lore and legend.