This year has been like no other, with lockdown and uncertainty, followed by a whirlwind season starting 3 months later in July; it feels like autumn has come around very fast!
September is a time of new beginnings, and even more so this autumn with the schools going back, as we continue to navigate a new normal.
Autumn often brings some lovely warm weather, so visiting Cornwall’s beautiful beaches and sunbathing on them is still a realistic possibility. There will also be opportunities to embrace the crisp air by wrapping up and exploring the coast as well as crunching your way through one of Cornwall’s gardens. In October kids look forward to Halloween, and there are still places to get spooky.
We have it covered with plenty of ideas on what to do this autumn.
1. Get a history fix at a National Trust Property 
There’s nothing more cosy than a walk around a National Trust property on a Sunday afternoon, followed by a pub lunch and settling down in front of the fire with a warm cup of hot chocolate or a glass of red.
Lanhydrock, near Bodmin, is opening its doors to visitors this autumn, pre-booking is essential. This majestic Victorian house is situated in a beautiful garden and wooded estate. There are also cycle trails around the estate. A fascinating insight into Victorian life; this house will be sure to impress.
Much closer to us, around the corner, is Trerice, which re-opens on the 16th of September. This Elizabethan Manor House and garden will delight. Pre-booking is essential.
2. Blow off the cobwebs on a coastal walk in Newquay
Newquay has seven beaches, so there’s plenty of coastline to explore. Walking from Porth to Watergate is a firm walk favourite with locals and holidaymakers. There are amazing views all the way, taking almost 2 miles each way, with the opportunity to stop off for food and drink at each end of the walk.
In town you can walk from Fistral, south, all the way around to the Harbour, with fantastic things to see the whole way, including the famous Fistral beach where you can spot surfers, to the old Coastguard hut and historic Huer’s Hut. The Huer’s hut dates back to the 14th century and by the 16th century it was used as a lookout point for the seasonal arrival of pilchards in the bay. Finish at the harbour, where you can spot a seal, grab something to eat and enjoy looking at the fishing boats.
3. Crunch through the leaves in a Cornish Garden
There is no better place to be socially distant than a Cornish garden this autumn.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan has ample space to enjoy. This garden was rediscovered in the brambles 25 years ago. There’s so much to see with over 200 acres to explore. There’s something for everyone’s tastes with Victorian Productive Gardens and Pleasure Grounds, a jungle in the UK which takes you on a sub-tropical journey through bamboo tunnels and under majestic tree ferns, giant rhubarb and bananas whilst the estate reveals a lost world of traditional and rare breeds, wildlife and ancient woodlands – perfect for autumn vibes and crunchy leaves.
Trebah, near Falmouth, is also a brilliant place to wander and open Saturday – Wednesday inclusive, pre-booked tickets only. This Cornish valley garden invites you down the winding footpaths to enjoy the vibrant plant life before you reach a Trebah’s very own secluded beach on the Helford River. Autumn is the perfect time to visit with the Hydrangea Valley casting clouds of china blue and soft white across Mallard Pond.
4. Get spooked with the kids at a Camel Creek
Halloween is by no means cancelled at Camel Creek who are planning much Spooktacular fun – pre-booking is essential. Keep checking their website for the latest news on Halloween antics. Kids will love the rides for all ages, along with an array of kids favourite TV characters visiting on certain days.
Hendra is also cooking up some Halloween fun – watch this space!
5. Wrap up for a woodland walk
Cornwall is known more for its beaches than its woodland but there are plenty of places to go for an autumn walk. Try Kennall Vale Woods, Ponsanooth near Truro. An attractive woodland with some open glades, this reserve also contains a water-filled quarry. The Kennall Vale gunpowder factory was situated here but closed in the first decade of the last century. It is a great reserve for wildlife, such as the pipistrelle bat, as well as plenty of birdlife.
Or explore Tehidy, near Camborne, an expansive woodland with over 9 miles of paths and 250 acres of peaceful woods and lakes to explore, together with a café and a picnic area. There are five main access points including North Cliff car park, and South Drive car park.
Cardinham, near Bodmin is nestled in a beautiful valley with a bubbling stream. A mixed woodland offers walking and mountain bike trails, and family-friendly play and picnic areas. There are amazing viewpoints history fans can spot remnants of the old mine and traditional clapper bridge.
