Easter in West Cornwall is the perfect time to escape: by early April, hedgerows are splashed with wildflowers, fields are turning lush green, and the beaches are often quiet with that glassy, crystal-clear water Cornwall does so well. With longer days and (hopefully) brighter sunshine, it is one of the best times of year to slow down, get outside and enjoy this beautiful corner of Cornwall before the summer crowds arrive. In this journal, I will give you a brief introduction into my 5 favourite things to do during the Easter Holidays. If you have a few of your own – do please let me know!
Take a bracing sea swim (then warm up with hot chocolate)
If you are tempted by the turquoise water, Easter is a great moment for a cold-water dip – whether that is a quick plunge at Praa Sands, a sheltered swim at Penzance’s Art Deco Jubilee Pool, or a calm cove on the Helford estuary. Post‑swim, wrap up and reward yourself with a proper hot chocolate at a beachside café, Praa Sands has Stones Reef looking straight over the sand and Penzance promenade offers plenty of spots to sit, sip and watch the waves roll in. Even without the swim, the hot-chocolate option has to remain on the family Easter activities in Cornwall to-do list! Always check sea conditions, tides and your own limits before getting in, and at that time of year, I would really recommend sticking to lifeguarded beaches.
Long dog walks with a pub at the end!
Spring is made for long coastal walks, when the paths are quieter and the sea thrift and gorse are starting to bloom. The stretch of coast between Lands’ End and St Ives is spectacular, with routes above Sennen, Gwenver and Botallack offering big skies, well-trodden paths, sea views and plenty of opportunities to let the dog enjoy a good scamper. On this stretch of coast, then you have plenty of options for a well-earned drink or lunch afterwards, try The Gurnard’s Head on the B3306, or The Queens Arms, Botallack. The Southwest Coastal Path, running between Penzance and Porthleven is also stunning, park at Rinsey Head and walk to Porthleven for a cheeky cider at The Ship or grab some local sea food at Mussel Shoal. Each of these options is perfect for muddy boots, tired paws and a relaxed pint, definitely one for the Easter in West Cornwall to-do list!
Visit Cornwall’s most beautiful gardens
By Easter, many of Cornwall’s gardens are bursting into life, with camellias, magnolias and spring bulbs putting on a show. Near Penzance, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens combines exotic planting, contemporary art and sweeping views across to St Michael’s Mount, plus a lovely café for coffee or lunch. Closer to Falmouth, Trebah Garden near Mawnan Smith is a sub‑tropical valley garden that leads down to a private beach on the Helford River, with four miles of pathways and family‑friendly activities through the season. Many gardens run trails or children’s activities around the Easter holidays, so it is worth checking individual websites for special events and opening times before you visit. The recent storms have played havoc across all of our beautiful gardens so supporting them this spring has never been more important.
Book in a proper Sunday roast
Easter Sunday (or any Sunday over the holidays) is the perfect excuse for a long lunch. Think lazy morning, a good walk along the coast, and then a hearty roast in a welcoming pub with local meat, seasonal vegetables and maybe a Cornish pudding to finish. Some of my favourites would include: The Old Coastguard, Mousehole; The Ship, Porthleven, The Ferryboat Inn, Helford Passage or The Mexico Inn, near Penzance. All known for simple, seasonal menus, a relaxed vibe and nearby coastal walks. Head back to your cottage afterwards for board games, a film or simply curling up with a book while the dog snoozes by the fire.
Enjoy Easter egg trails and family fun
Across West Cornwall, you will usually find Easter‑themed trails, hunts and family days out, from National Trust gardens to local attractions. In and around Falmouth, the National Maritime Museum often runs family events and trails over the Easter break, including themed shows and make‑and‑take workshops. Trebah Garden usually runs an Easter trail for children; their “Hoppy Tail Trail” includes a bunny-themed garden hunt with a small chocolate egg prize and runs throughout the holidays. Many holiday parks closer to Penzance such as Kenegie Manor usually run egg hunts, craft sessions and great family evenings, so its worth checking what is on close to your cottage nearer the time.
West Cornwall offers a myriad of options for family Easter activities, whether exploring scenic trails, enjoying wild swims and hot chocolate, relishing Sunday roasts and board games, or following bunny themed trails, this corner of England has something special for everyone. So, why wait? Book your Easter holiday in West Cornwall now. I list below a small selection of our Cornish cottages with availability this Spring, all of which are ready to welcome you, your family and your furry friends to experience an unforgettable Easter staycation.
Places to stay this Easter in West Cornwall
So if this Easter in West Cornwall journal has inspired you, let me tempt you with some options for your Easter holiday this year, book your stay and come and enjoy some Spring sunshine in West Cornwall. I promise some Easter eggs of your own on arrival!
Morningtide, Mousehole
Beautiful Cornish cottage set in a quiet residential part of Mousehole, near Penzance. With glorious sea views across Mounts Bay, private, secure, dog friendly garden, With three comfortable bedrooms and two bathrooms. Sleeps 6, dog friendly, with two wood burners for cosy evenings. Available from 3 – 19 April.
Porth Nanven Cottage
Beautiful detached Cornish cottage set at the end of a magical valley near St Just, with two comfortable bedrooms, two bathrooms and a spacious sitting / dining room. With footpaths from the doorstep leading in every direction, a short walk down to the sea at Porth Nanven Cove, an exhilarating walk along the South West Coastal Path to Sennen Cove or a stroll up to the local market town of St Just. Sleeps 4, dog friendly, parking and garden. Available from 3 – 10 April.
The Little Barn
Romantic bolthole for two people, located in a beautiful rural location close to village and coast. With comfortable bedroom, good sized bathroom and large open plan kitchen / dining / sitting area. Glorious footpaths from your doorstep, walk to the coast at Perranuthnoe, Co-op and pub within walking distance. Sleeps 2, dog friendly, parking and courtyard garden. Available from 4 – 19 April.
