5 Things to Experience in Cornwall this September and October
We love the early autumn in Cornwall, when the sun’s still warm but the roads are quieter. It’s the perfect time for a grown-up trip to Cornwall, with plenty to keep you entertained. As well as Cornwall’s famous attractions and beaches, there are lots of lesser-known venues and experiences that (we think!) every visitor needs to try at some point.
If you fancy learning a new skill or simply doing something a bit different on your St Ives holiday, take a look at our selection of unique Cornish experiences.
St Ives Cookery School
Do you love good food and pottering around in the kitchen? take your culinary skills to the next level with a day course at St Ives Cookery School. Founded by Green Michelin Star chef (and St Ives boy) Jeffrey Robinson, the courses take a holistic view of food and cooking, involving you in every aspect of preparing a three-course meal. There are also specialist courses available including fascinating foraging days.
The school is based at lovely Primrose House, in an inspirational location just above Porthminster Beach. Alternatively, you can arrange an at-home cookery course in your St Ives holiday cottage kitchen. Find out more at St Ives Cookery School
Leach Pottery Workshops
You’ve perfected your cooking skills – now you can really impress your diners by presenting the food on a platter you made yourself. Learn how to throw a pot or decorate a plate with a session at the famous Leach Pottery in St Ives. The Pottery offers a choice of workshops for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned potters looking to develop their talents.
Day workshops and taster sessions are perfect if you’re here on holiday and look out for extra events during the St Ives September Festival. You can also book onto a guided tour of the pottery to find out more about Bernard Leach, his work and the history of pottery in St Ives.
Discover the programme of workshops at the Leach Pottery
Polgoon Vineyard Tours
And a drink to pair with your food? Polgoon Vineyard and Orchard in Penzance has become one of our favourite spots. Their Vinehouse cafe/bar creates the most delicious tapas and wood-fired pizzas, served with their own wines and ciders. The shop at Polgoon is a must-visit place to pick up Cornish holiday treats, and if you can, make time to take one of their vineyard tours.
You can choose from guided or self-guided vineyard and orchard tours, and dogs on leads are welcome to join in. Tours finish in the restaurant with a tasting of both food and drink. In mid October, the tastings and tours change from summer to winter tours, showing the different seasons of wine production (if you time it right, you might be able to experience them both!).
Book a tour of Polgoon here.
St Ives Bikes
Leave your car at the holiday cottage and explore West Cornwall by bike. The weather in September and October is (usually) perfect for cycling – sunny and still warm, but with a pleasant cooler edge. You can rent an e-bike or regular bicycle from the friendly team at St Ives Bikes, saving you the effort of transporting your own down to Cornwall.
Cornwall’s lanes are often far more enjoyable on two wheels, and you’ll have a lovely time discovering new places on your high-end hire bike. You can also book a two-hour or half-day guided tour of the best cycle routes around St Ives – the Ancient Stones and Moors tour is absolutely stunning.
Hire a bike or take a tour with St Ives eBikes
Newlyn Filmhouse
You’ve cooked up a storm and cycled around Penwith. Now it’s time to relax in the comfort of Newlyn’s independent cinema. Newlyn Filmhouse is a decidedly grown-up-feeling cinema. Yes, it shows family favourites and kids are welcome, but its diverse programme of world cinema and live events as well as blockbusters is aimed at a wider audience.
The former fish cellar is also home to the Barr and Rastell restaurant, a comfortable space that manages to be both cosy and sophisticated. Come here before or after the film for fresh local seafood and fabulous veggie dishes.
See what’s on at Newlyn Filmhouse
Book your September or October break in Cornwall
Experience Cornwall’s unique attractions for yourself with a September or October break. Take a look at our selection of luxury Cornish holiday cottages and start planning your autumn adventures.
The Mermaid Seafood Restaurant
Mermaid Seafood Restaurant, Fish Street, Saint Ives, UK