Why September’s the best time to holiday in Cornwall
Cornwall doesn’t stop being beautiful on the last day of August. In fact, everyone who lives there knows the real summer starts in September – perfect for those who are not tied to school holidays. This is when the savvy take a break in Cornwall, steering safely clear of July and August’s congested beaches, fractious families and peak-season prices.
Cornwall’s autumn is milder than the rest of the country and fewer people visit then, so holidaying here in September is definitely calmer and quieter. Oh, and the sea’s still nice and warm so you can swim without the chill factor! What’s not to like? Head down to Cornwall for the late summer break you’ve been pining for. Here’s why September’s the best time to holiday in Cornwall.
There are fewer crowds
It goes without saying that once the school holidays are over, tourists return home in their droves. That means you can drive around Cornwall’s tiny country lanes with ease, always find a parking space and wander the little fishing villages’ cobbled streets without being jostled by frazzled families juggling small children, pasties and ice creams.
The weather’s better
Cornwall’s weather in September, like most places in the UK, has its ups and downs. There can be storms and there can be rain. But after a wet and warm July and August, the sun usually comes back out again in September. Expect amazingly clear, balmy days, stunning sundowners and slightly crisper mornings and evenings.
The days start to shorten with earlier sunsets and later sunrises, but there’s still a summery feel. It takes quite a while for the leaves to change down here, so you can put autumn off for just a few more weeks.
The sea’s still warm
The brisk Atlantic’s had all summer to warm up. Temperatures peak at about 17C in August, before settling at a respectable 16C again in September. This year, the warmest places to swim in Cornwall have been Fowey, Gorran Haven and Polkerris, all recording 17.2C sea temperatures.
Whether you fancy a short, refreshing dip, a longer swim or an energetic surf or SUP session, most of our Cornish holiday cottages are just a stone’s throw away from some of the best swimming beaches in the county. If you don’t fancy the sea, there are a host of charming places to have a wild swim instead. Pack your swimmers, a towel and a hot drink to warm up afterwards.
The beaches are clear
Wild and untamed, Cornwall’s glorious beaches are where you can get away from it all. Free from the crowds come September, you can roam for hours without seeing anyone but the odd dog walker or surfer.
Fancy a surreptitious dip in a secluded cove? No problem. Want to surf or bodyboard without worrying about running over small children or swimmers in the shallows? Now is your time. Ready to finally let your dog off the leash and run amok? Feel free!
The surf improves
Summer and surfing in Cornwall are generally not a good mix. But as the year rolls from the warmer months into autumn and towards winter, Atlantic storms send more dramatic swells rolling towards the UK coast. This means better, more consistent waves for surfers in Newquay and other popular Cornish surf spots.
Well-known breaks like Fistral Beach or Watergate Bay are perfect to learn to surf and are far less busy in autumn than during the peak summer holiday season, when every inch of sand and sea can end up teeming with people. In September, you’ll be able to enjoy uninterrupted swell and catch more waves, without worrying about colliding into someone or competing for space. If you’re really lucky, you may even find you have the waves to yourself for a few hours.
Restaurants are quieter
Cornwall’s foodie scene has exploded over the past few years, with celebrity chefs and their eateries popping up all over the county. But during the summer, bookings peak and tables are snapped up weeks or even months in advance. This can sting a bit, when you’ve worked hard all year to treat yourself to some fresh local seafood on your hols.
Whether it’s a family seafood lunch at Rick Stein’s Café in Padstow, crustaceans at the Lobster Shed at The Pig at Harlyn Bay or a special tasting menu at Nathan Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, you’re far more likely to get a reservation or walk-in meal in September.
It’s perfect for walking
Not too hot nor too cold and wet, September is the best time to hike the South West Coast Path. Saunter along the cliff tops to enjoy breathtaking views, explore hidden coves, step foot in World Heritage Mining Sites and spot the wildlife reclaiming their territory from the holidaymakers.
There are still lots of events on
Conrwall certainly doesn’t grind to a halt when summer’s over. September offers an abundance of fun music and food festivals across the county.
Head to Penhallow for the Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival at Healy’s Cyder Farm on 8-10 September. Expect a charming Cornish party with some big live bands, a groovy silent disco, BBC Introducing stage, camping and glamping and a huge range of delicious local ciders.
The Looe Weekender on 15-17 September offers three days of free live music in and around the town, while the inaugural Newquay Harbour Festival on Saturday 16 September celebrates the essence of the historic harbour with celebrity chef demonstrations, street food, entertainment for kids and live bands. Arts and culture will be honoured in myriad forms over in St Ives from 9-23 September.
Want to experience the charms of Cornwall this September? It’s not too late! Book your late summer escape.