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Portrait of a young married couple and their cute daughter who have fun on the beach in winter.

As the crowds disperse and the beaches become quieter, enjoy these things to do in Cornwall in October.

Picture-postcard scenery, soft sandy beaches, and crystalline clear waters. Cornwall is known around the world for being a staple summer holiday destination. But, there’s more to Cornwall than the sweltering heat and packed beaches of the summertime.

Cornwall in October and the autumn months will see you uncover a county filled with beauty and wonder.

To get you inspired, we’ve created a roundup of fantastic things to do in Cornwall in October and beyond…


Our favourite things to do in Cornwall in October:

  1. Walk through Idless Woods – Truro
  2. Enjoy the quieter beaches – Carbis Bay
  3. Pick your own at Trevaskis Farm – Hayle
  4. Go cold-water surfing – St Ives and Carbis Bay
  5. Be inspired at the Tate – St Ives
  6. A cinematic experience at Newlyn Filmhouse – Penzance
  7. Get pampered at the HarSPA – St Ives

Dramatic winter coastal scene in Cornwall with waves crashing against rocks.

Why visit Cornwall in October?

Autumn and October breaks in Cornwall are great for enjoying an array of activities.

Indulge in evening drinks at one of the beach bars taking in the orange sunsets. Have a go at surfing and other watersports during autumn to take advantage of the choppier waters. Or wrap up warm and begin exploring the South West Coast Path with coastal walks.

The weather can still be amazing into October, with only a slight drop in temperature. Plus, there are far fewer people in the car parks, at the tourist attractions and in the sea!


Autumnal outdoor things to do in Cornwall in October

The shifting colours of autumn look beautiful in Cornwall in October. The countryside, woodland, moorland and coastal pathways all transform.

We are spoilt for choice with spectacular scenery here. The changing season is the perfect opportunity to get amidst nature and enjoy the outdoors.

Read on to discover some of the glorious outdoor things to do in Cornwall in October…

Sun shining through Idless Woods in Cornwall, in Autumn with orange and red foliage.

1. Take in the changing seasons at Idless Woods – Truro

Where better to experience the beauty of the changing seasons than beneath a blanket of leaves in the stunning Idless Woods.

Stretch your legs in the glow of the autumn sun and feel the crunch of bright auburn leaves under your feet as you stroll through the winding woodlands. And, when stomachs start rumbling, be sure to call into the Woodman’s Cabin for a bite to eat.

2. Enjoy the quieter shores of Carbis Bay – St Ives

We might be biased, but we think one of the best things to do in Cornwall in October is to take advantage of the quieter beaches. Think sunrise or sunset walks along Carbis Bay or one of the many St Ives beaches.

The sun still shines throughout Cornwall in October, and while you might not feel like braving a dip in the blue waters, there’s still plenty to enjoy at the beach.

Take a walk along the St Ives Bay shoreline in the early morning with a coffee to go. Grab one from one of the many fabulous cafés in St Ives. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the sunrise.

If you’re more of a night owl, pack a blanket and a bottle of wine. Head down to the beach in the evening and share a glass while the sun sets over the south west. The low October sun makes for stunning, vibrant sunsets that can’t be missed.

Two young children pumpkin picking in October.

3. Pick your own fruit and veg at Trevaskis Farm – Hayle

For a true taste of autumn, head to Trevaskis Farm. Renowned for its fantastic food and incredible cake counter, Trevaskis is also a great place to pick up your own produce. So you can create a gorgeous meal back at your self-catering accommodation.

With a seasonal selection of pick-your-own fruit and veg, including pumpkins in October, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy. And, with the on-site farm shop, you can stock up on a range of local products for a real Cornish taste experience.

4. Go cold-water surfing – St Ives and Carbis Bay

Have a go at surfing and other watersports during autumn to take advantage of the choppier waters.

Avid surfers will know that the waves are at their best in the cooler months and the water isn’t as cold as you might think.

Beaches like Carbis Bay which are normally too calm for any decent breakers transform in the autumn and winter months. At Carbis Bay Beach you’ll find a strong and hollow beach break, made possible only by a big swell backed by a northerly wind.

It’s important to remember that they’re aren’t any lifeguards around in October and the rest of winter, so take care. Always ask the locals if you’re ever unsure about anything, or local surf schools like St Ives Surf School.

 


Cosy indoor things to do in Cornwall in October

If the great outdoors isn’t your thing, don’t panic. Enjoy Cornwall’s indoor attractions without the summer queues.

Whether you’re on a cosy romantic escape to St Ives, or an off-season family holiday adventure.

Discover plenty of fantastic indoor things to do in Cornwall in October to indulge in during your stay…

Tate St Ives art gallery in St Ives, Cornwall.

5. Seek inspiration of an artistic nature at the Tate St Ives – St Ives

Of course, no stay in St Ives is complete without a trip to the world-famous Tate St Ives gallery.

Featuring artworks from some of the most well known and beloved artists throughout history, the Tate is a must-visit for any art lovers.

In the autumn months expect a quieter gallery experience and stunning views from the sea-facing gallery.

6. Enjoy an intimate cinema experience at Newlyn Filmhouse – Penzance

When the temperature drops and the evenings draw in, there’s nothing better than a trip to the movies for a slice of cinematic escapism.

And, at the Newlyn Filmhouse, you don’t just get a slice of escapism, you get a slice of history. Located in a stunning converted fish smoking cellar in the heart of Newlyn, the Filmhouse shows both mainstream and art-house titles throughout the week.

And, to add even more enjoyment to your autumnal evening, a meal at the Eathouse restaurant is a great way to round off the cinema experience. Indulge in delicious plates of food made with fresh local produce and seafood landed mere metres away.

Woman in a spa having a face mask applied.

7. Indulge in a day of pampering at the HarSPA St Ives

There’s nothing quite like a bit of pampering to help you relax and enjoy your autumn break in Cornwall. And there’s nowhere better to unwind than the HarSPA at the Harbour Hotel St Ives.

When you book one of our cottages with spa access, you can enjoy beautiful sea views alongside the benefits of access to the spa facilities at HarSPA.


Tempted to book a break? There’s plenty going on to make sure that breaks in Cornwall in October and autumn are just as good (if not better) than summer holidays in the county.

For more fun in spooky season, find out what Halloween activities in Cornwall you can enjoy too.


This post was adapted from original content by Tony Townsend.