Cornwall’s most Instagrammable locations
When it comes to jaw-droppingly beautiful natural scenery, Cornwall is up there on a global scale. From incredible sea views to golden beaches to historic fishing villages, the county is an absolute treasure trove of stunning places to snap and post online. There are plenty of weird and wonderful locations as well, encompassing rugged moorland, rock formations and ruined castles. Cornwall is a photographer’s dream and you’ll find photographic destinations literally just around the corner from your Cornish holiday cottage. To narrow it down, we’ve listed our top 12 most Instagrammable locations in Cornwall, guaranteed to wow. So charge your camera or your phone, get out there and start shooting.
1. Truro Cathedral
Three soaring spires, silhouetted by the bright blue Cornish sky, amazing architecture and stunning stained glass windows make this gothic revival building picture perfect.
2. Moomaid in the Village ice cream parlour, Zennor
This ice cream brand has become something of a Cornish legend, with its quirky flavours – choose from Shipwreck (sea salt and caramel), creme fraiche and lemon curd or prosecco – and tantalisingly Cornish mermaid backstory. The Moomaids’ fourth parlour is housed in a highly Instagrammable shed next to the Old Wayside Museum and the ice creams themselves are a real feast for the eyes as well as your tastebuds.
www.moomaidofzennor.com/parlours/#4
3. Eden Project, St Austell
A visit to the world’s largest greenhouse will give you fabulous photo ops in a range of different environments, making it look like you’ve travelled all over the world! Try the rainforest biome with its steamy jungle and waterfall and the Mediterranean zone for brightly coloured flowers against white Grecian-esque walls.
4. Rough Tor, Bodmin Moor
Stunning views, wild ponies and cairns galore are the order of the day when you venture inland to Rough Tor on Bodmin Moor. This rocky outcrop is steeped in archaeological history and also happens to sit in Bodmin’s designated Dark Sky Landscape, making it the ideal spot for a touch of star-gazing! Don’t forget your SLR if you plan to shoot for the stars.
5. Porthcothan Bay, near Padstow
Porthcothan is one of Cornwall’s hidden gems. Just a mile away from Padstow, it’s lesser known than Constantine but just as pretty, with its white sand and fascinating caves and rock formations. Head here for true desert island vibes.
6. Emily Scott Food, Watergate Bay
Insta pretty plates of food AND the gorgeous view at Emily Scott Food. This elegant and contemporary restaurant has plenty of photo opportunities inside as well as far-reaching views both through the full-length windows and from the terrace.
7. Pedn Vounder, near Penzance
This Cornish beach is a real showstopper. At high tide, you wouldn’t even know it was there, but at low tide, the sea retreats to reveal a beautiful corner of paradise. Discover a glistening sandbar, hidden coves in rocky walls and crystal-clear waters as jagged cliffs tower overhead.
Part of Pedn Vounder’s charm is that it’s off the beaten track, making it a real adventure and well worth the amazing pictures you’ll be rewarded with once you’re there.
8. RMS Mulheim, near Sennen Cove
If shipwrecks are your bag, head to Gamper Bay, along the South West Coast Path, between Sennen and Land’s End. There you’ll find part of the remains of RMS Mulheim, a 294 ft German cargo vessel that ran aground on 22 March 2003. Its huge, mangled pieces of rusted steel have been beaten into organic shapes and are a visual reminder of the power of the sea. Please take your photos from above – it’s not safe to climb down the cliff among the wreckage.
9. Land’s End, west Cornwall
One of Cornwall’s most famous landmarks, Land’s End is a must-visit location, purely for its symbolic meaning. Situated on Cornwall’s western tip, it boasts unending views across the Atlantic Ocean. Snap its famous signpost as well as the view for maximum Insta kudos.
10. Polperro, south Cornwall
The quaint little fishermen’s cottages in Polperro are stunning. For a quirky photo, head to the old ‘Warren’ part of the village overlooking the harbour and look out for the Shell House. You can’t miss it – one wall is completely covered in shells, the handiwork of retired sailor Samuel Puckey. Pop into the Blue Peter Inn to soak up true olde worlde ambience and gaze at the luggers in the harbour.
11. Restormel Castle, Lostwithiel
Explore the circular Restormel Castle, standing in ruins amid beautiful countryside. Huge fireplaces, high windows and the Great Hall give clues about its opulent past. Climb up the stone staircase from the courtyard and you will be rewarded with stunning views.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/restormel-castle/
12. Ladies Window rock arch, Bocastle
Located on the steep cliffs near Trevalga between Tintagel and Boscastle, Ladies Window rock arch provides a stunning frame with which to capture the drama of the rugged north Cornish coast.
Want even more beautiful places to photograph? Read our 10 places to pop the question in Cornwall article for more inspiration.
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