Best Things to do in Cornwall for couples

Many of us have rediscovered the joys of a Great British holidays in the last couple of years, and it’s no wonder that the country’s most south-westerly county of Cornwall is high up on the favourites list.

It offers a slice of sea, sand and sights to rival any romantic getaway abroad. Hotel Penzance places you in the far clutches of the county, but right in the centre of a town brimming with culture, in an environment of unparalleled beauty.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing couples’ retreat in a romantic Cornwall hotel, looking to take in the local sights together, or immerse yourself in nature, we’ve got your romantic holiday covered with our top pick of things to do in Cornwall for couples.

Minack Theatre

For things to do in Cornwall for couples, the unique open-air Minack Theatre is dramatically situated on the cliffs at Porthcurno, near Land's End, just a short half hour drive around the coast from the Hotel.

The theatre hosts a season of performances, ranging from renditions of Shakespeare plays for any star-crossed lovers to music events that take you dancing into the sunset, from February to November. Tours of the Theatre & Gardens can be booked for £8 for a single adult, whilst show tickets vary from £10-£30 per adult.

Head to the Beach

Perhaps one of the best things to do in Cornwall for couples is taking a romantic trip to the beach.

Cornwall’s extensive coastline means there are numerous beautiful beaches to visit, whether you want to walk, swim, or sunbathe.

Kynance Cove is a particularly beautiful and secluded beach on the Lizard Peninsula. With crystal clear waters and sandy shores, you might be fooled into thinking you are in the Mediterranean and, being the southernmost point of the UK, it is certainly the closest you can get!

Pack up a romantic picnic, go for a swim, or hike around the peninsula, known for its interesting geology and breathtaking panoramas. 

Tremenheere Scultpture Gardens

In addition to the outstanding natural beauty of much of Cornwall’s countryside, the county is also home to multiple fascinating gardens including the much-famed Eden Project, showcasing exotic plant life you would otherwise have to travel far and wide to experience.

Taking the concept of things to do in Cornwall for couples in a different direction, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens feature varied, interesting plant life alongside works of contemporary artists, as a meeting of human nature and our environment, which you can enjoy as a couple for just £19.

Wind your way through tranquil, shaded corners, blooming flora, inspiring sculptures and stunning vistas in the sheltered valley overlooking St. Michael’s Mount for a wholly stimulating day. The site also has a kitchen serving local produce and boasting the same gorgeous views for you to relax, enjoy being together as a couple, and take in the scenery. 

A couples' trip out to Sea

For couples searching for more adventure, the Cornish coast is a hub of activity for water sports. There are plenty of places to rent a kayak or paddleboard and take in the lesser-visited coves and coastlines, spot wildlife, or take a splash in the turquoise waters.

The Hoxton Special in Mounts Bay, Marazion, offers a perfect package including 2-hour paddleboard or kayak hire and a picnic for couples, costing £90, with lessons also available for beginners. The company also advertises a beachside coffee shop to wind down after a stint in the water or to fuel up for more Cornwall fun! 

Couples wine & Dine

After a day of sightseeing, relaxing or enjoying activities, a romantic couples dinner is the perfect way to spend the evening and explore Cornwall through food.

Not only will you find a range of fantastic restaurants and cafés across Cornwall, there is also a strong focus on using fresh and local ingredients, reflecting the surrounding environment.

The Tolcarne Inn at Newlyn is a historic maritime inn nestled in the sea wall, offering gorgeous ocean views on your approach and a taste of the native waters once you are inside.

Seafood changes to reflect the season and comes from local fishmongers, whilst the harvest from land is sourced from small, local farmers and community gardens. Local ales, ciders, and perfectly paired wines are also available to accompany your meal or for a quick drink, either by the cosy burner or on the sunny terrace. 

Sample Homegrown Delights

You can't list the best things to do in Cornwall without mentioning food and drink.

If food and drink is your thing, you must make the most of the local breweries, distilleries, delis, and farm shops that showcase the best of Cornish products, many of which achieve renown on a national scale.

Of course, a visit to a local distillery or vineyard is also an enjoyable day out in its own right and makes a perfect indulgent treat to include in any romantic getaway. Colwith Farm Distillery offers a guided tour of its gin and vodka distillery, including tasting sessions, for £27 per person or a chance to distil your own perfect gin infusion in their Gin School at £99 for two.

Polgoon Vineyard is an alternative for wine and cider lovers, offering guided tours from April to September for £15 per person. The 90-minute tour includes a stroll around the beautiful vineyard and orchard, concluding with a delicious tasting session.

Local Treats

Of course, you couldn’t make a trip to Cornwall as a couple without sampling the county’s famous pasties, and there are plenty of places to choose from.

Take a stroll down the cobbled streets of Penzance and pop into one of the numerous delis, such as The Cornish Hen, Lavender’s or Rowe’s, for a fresh, handmade pasty to accompany you around the town. If pasties are not for you, the local fishing trade means a quality fish and chip shop is never far away. Pick up a portion and take dinner al-fresco on the beach or the promenade.

With a wonderful mix of culture, coastline and cuisine, Penzance makes the perfect base for your next romantic Cornish break, and we’d be delighted to welcome you to our sea-view hotel and restaurants just moments from the seafront and the town’s bustling centre.