Valentine’s Day with a Difference in Cornwall

Romantic days out in Cornwall

Where are the best places for a romantic day out in Cornwall? With its links to the Arthurian legend, dramatic Tintagel Castle is a real favourite. The castle and gardens of St Michael’s Mount may be closed; however, you can still walk across to the island to explore the harbour and village of one of Britain’s most romantic landmarks.

Trengwainton Garden near Penzance (National Trust) blooms earlier than most gardens, thanks to its glorious magnolia and camellia collections. The winding paths and walled gardens make Trengwainton a wonderful place for a romantic stroll, even this early in the season.

For couples that enjoy looking at art together, spend a morning or afternoon at Tate St Ives (include a cafe break in your itinerary, as the views are incredible). Combine your love of art and nature with a day at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens near Penzance, which is also an excellent place to eat and drink.

Wild and romantic places

If your idea of romance is more Heathcliff and Cathy than Hallmark, you’ll love Cornwall’s wild landscape. Head for the moors of West Cornwall for glorious sweeping ocean views: Bartinney nature reserve is especially lovely, or set out along the coast path, pausing at pretty coves (or detouring to cosy pubs) along the way.

Blend romance with your love of history by exploring some of Cornwall’s ancient sites. Men-an-Tol (“The Holed Stone”) is a Bronze Age monument in the countryside near Madron, made up from a distinctive tyre-shaped stone and three granite pillars (warning: this site has long been associated with fertility…). The Merry Maidens stone circle near St Buryan is another remote and beautiful spot, or head up to the ancient hill fort on Trencrom Hill, where you’ll get incredible views over both coasts.

Cornish Valentine’s gifts

You can easily find traditional Valentine’s Day presents here in Cornwall, but with a local twist. Pick up a bottle of Camel Valley sparkling wine or a bouquet of beautiful flowers from Zennor Wild in Penzance. Add a box of chocolates from Trenance and you have the Holy Trinity of Valentine’s Day gifts, Cornish-style.

We’re lucky to have so many talented jewellers in Cornwall: walk down the main shopping street in any town and you’ll come across a wonderful choice of exquisite artisan jewellery: look out for sea glass designs for a real Cornish feel. Choose an artwork or print of a place in Cornwall that means something to you, or indulge yourself in some luxurious local beauty products from a brand like the Cornish Seaweed Bath Company.

Romantic meals for Valentine’s Day

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to romantic restaurants in Cornwall, especially if you’re staying in one of our foodie hotspots like St Ives, Padstow or Porthleven. Reserve your table as soon as you can, especially if you want a spot with a sea view. Alternatively, book a tour of one of Cornwall’s excellent vineyards and wineries and sample some Cornish sparkly together.

However, a romantic meal doesn’t have to involve fine dining and dressing up (much as we love to do this). Go to one of the Moomaid of Zennor ice cream parlours and share a gorgeously decadent sundae. Buy a brace of pasties and find a sheltered spot on the coast path for a windswept winter picnic. Pick up freshly landed fish in Newlyn, wrap up well and have a barbecue on your terrace, lit by string lights and storm lanterns.