Newquay

One of the UK’s most beloved seaside towns lies on the North Atlantic coast of Cornwall. It’s very popular in the summer months when the town’s population can swell by 100,000 people! This coastal resort has reinvented itself in recent years and now enjoys a lively nightlife and annual events including beach festivals and a sailing regatta. Drawn by its many sandy beaches, Newquay is a haven for those who love watersports, and there are plenty of surf schools and surf shops here to get you kitted out with wetsuits so you’re ready to hit the waves.

Newquay’s pleasant town centre is easy to explore on foot and you’ll find plenty of mainstream stores and quirky independent shops around the high street. Of course, this is the homeland of British specialities like the Cornish pasty, and tea with scones, jam, and clotted cream, so remember to sample these in a local café during your visit. But there’s a wealth of other dining choices too, including fresh seafood and plenty of international restaurants.

There’s a fine selection of accommodation here - but remember to book early if you’re visiting in peak season. Choose from boutique hotels with sweeping coastal views, to excellent lower-budget guest houses with all mod cons. There’s also an abundance of family-friendly attractions in the area including a zoo, an aquarium, National Trust properties, and a couple of small theme parks.