One of the most enjoyable things to do during the summer is to have a picnic – and some of the prettiest picnic spots in the UK are in beautiful Cornwall! It’s time to pack your wicker basket and blanket and set off for the great outdoors.
Cornwall has some top spots for a picnic, with something for all the family. Whether you enjoy simply relaxing in the fresh air, walking, paddling in the sea, building a sandcastle or seeing the sights, this is one of the best spots in the country for dining al fresco!
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Helford River
If you enjoy visiting the great outdoors as nature intended it, take a trip to the famous Helford River, which is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic on a warm, sunny day. The Helford River is one of Cornwall’s most famous rivers, fed by smaller streams. There are seven creeks off the river, the most famous of which is Frenchman’s Creek, thanks to Daphne du Maurier’s novel of the same name.
Marvel at historic Tremayne Quay, built in the 1840s and take a ferry to Trebah Gardens and Glendurgan Gardens for a stroll amidst the flowers. There are several places to park en route, including the main Helford Car Park, on the south-west coastal path.
Watergate Bay, Newquay
Watergate Bay offers two miles of golden sands, so there’s no chance it will be overcrowded – you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the views! To work up an appetite, the more adventurous can venture into the water and partake in a little surfing, bodyboarding, kayaking and kite surfing. Afterwards, you can spend the rest of the day lazing on the beach and enjoying the picturesque scenery. The bay has its own carpark and motorhomes are permitted between 8am and 11pm.
Gwithian Beach
Located near Hayle, Gwithian Beach is the ideal place to escape the summer crowds at St Ives, but it’s still close enough to admire the coastal beauty from afar. The beach nestles just across St Ives Bay and is close to the landmark Godrevy lighthouse.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach and watching the gentle waves, which are great for novice surfers. There is plenty of parking, which is available for motorhomes between 8am and 11pm. Once you’ve dined, you may fancy exploring the scenic sand dunes and rock pools, which will keep the kids entertained.
Ten Acre Wood, Polmorla
Ten Acre Wood is famous for its fragrant carpet of bluebells in May. A wonderful setting for a family day out and a picnic, the ancient woodlands have been lovingly restored to their former glory. There’s a woodland activity area to entertain the children after your picnic.
Along the Polmorla River, in the shade of ancient oak and holly trees, you will surely find the ideal picnic spot. There’s good vehicle access and on-site parking. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, you can leave your vehicle in nearby Wadebridge and cycle the short distance to the wood, which is also near the Camel cycle trail.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, located near Mevagissey, is one of Cornwall’s most mysterious and atmospheric destinations. The botanical gardens date from the mid-18th century, when they were created by the historic Cornish Tremayne family.
Maintained until the start of World War One, afterwards they became overgrown with brambles and seemed lost to the passage of time. Like Sleeping Beauty, they were reawakened in 1990, when they were restored to their former glory. The 200-acre estate has become a paradise for visitors and garden enthusiasts, and there are numerous picnic areas to enjoy an outdoor feast.
If you’re planning a road trip, Driveline’s modern motorhomes are ideal for every occasion when you want to get away from it all with family and friends – and you can’t go wrong if you’re planning a holiday to Cornwall! Hire a comfortable, reliable vehicle by contacting us for further information.
