Things To Do

Watergate Bay is in a superb position for just about anything that is going on in Cornwall. Being placed in mid-Cornwall means whether you want to do things in the North, South East or West you are placed right in the middle. The coast line is some of the most rugged and beautiful in Britain also boasting the best surfing waves that hit England, generated from the Atlantic. There’s plenty to do in the area, not just surfing! Other activities to try like kite surfing, which gives you the ability to jump 20ft in the air, to horse riding down the beach at sunset.

Sports

There are loads of sports to try, in the water and out. If you have come to Cornwall then you should really have a go at surfing, but if that is not to your taste then Watergate Bay can offer you Body Boarding, Kite Surfing, Power Kiting, Wave skiing and Windsurfing, whilst nearby you can find Sailing, Kayaking, climbing, abseiling, Power boating and a whole host of other things to do .

Extreme Academy

Watergate Bay

This is Watergate Bays local extreme sports school where you can get tuition in Power Kiting, Waves king or Kite Surfing, you can even get your B.K.S.A instructors qualification.

King Surf

Mawgan Porth

This Surf school is the best in the area and has been running for 11 years, with the use of there own privately licensed beach it never gets too busy perfect for learning on. All the instructors have their A.B.S.A qualification and will get you ripping up the waves in no time at all.

Lusty Glaze Adventure Centre

Newquay

Why not stay dry for a while with some Climbing, Abseiling, or have a go at a Zip wire. At 750ft long and 120ft high this is one of Europe’s longest aerial runways and perfect for a quick buzz when at the beach.

Canoeing & Kayaking

Camel

Wadebridge

There are all sorts of different kayaking and canon adventures to have a go at and is the best way to explore the inland estuary’s and ancient coastland. You can choose from guided trips, stand up paddle boarding and kayaking. On any of these adventures you are sure to enjoy yourself as you peacefully float wherever you want, you can even go try some fishing when out on the water.

Paddlefish Adventure

Newquay

Based on sturdy sit-on top kayaks that make even the most novice feel at ease, this is an adventure for the whole family - the best way to view the spectacular coastline with coves and caves to investigate. There is an abundance of wild life to look out for including sea birds, porpoise, seals, and if you’re lucky basking sharks. Much of Cornwalls history has left visible clues , with tin mines, harbours, wrecks and lighthouses all along this coastline.

Golf

There are some stunning courses in the area, including a driving range, with Merlin Golf course just a mile or two away at Mawgan Porth .

Merlin Golf Club

Mawgan Porth

The wonderful views of the sea and surrounding area make it a true pleasure to play here. The course has been designed with all levels of golfer in mind. Whilst the fairways are not too long for the higher handy capped there is always the wind to challenge the lower handy capped.

Treloy Golf Club

Newquay

Designed by Bob Sandow and opened in 1991 the reputation of this course has been growing ever since. The 9-hole course is 5 minuets out side of Newquay and is the first of its kind in Cornwall.

Animal Attractions

Cornwall is packed with some immense animal attractions, from the highflying Screech Owl Sanctuary to the creatures of the deep at the Bluereef Aquarium.

Newquay Zoo

Newquay

The back drop of a lush sub tropical lake side is just the start to this attraction. There are over 130 species to view, with new exhibits being added all the time. At the moment (2010) there is an amazing rainforest exhibit linking to the oriental gardens and a newly opened Madagascan walk through area. Newquay Zoo is perfect for the whole family.

Bluereef Aquarium

Newquay

Going to an Aquarium while in Cornwall is perfect as you’re where you can experience some of the animals that live just off our beaches and yet more who are visitors from more tropical shores..






This attraction will really will open your eyes to what lives on the planet with us.

Screech Owl Sanctuary

St. Column Major

This Sanctuary initially looks after sick and injured owls that come in from around the Cornwall area. There are new arrivals for 2010 the meerkats and Shetland pony’s giving you even more of a reason to and visit.

The National Lobster Hatchery

Padstow

Every wondered what a lobster does all day, well now’s your chance to come and find out. Explore the problems that lobsters are facing in the wild and what’s being done to save them. You can even adopt one if you fancy.

Day Trip Attractions

Eden Project

The Eden Project is the largest conservation project in the world. Its amazing location and green house structure is just the beginning, the plants that are inside are even better. From the Rainforest Biome to the Mediterranean Biome this day out will blow your mind.

Go Karting

St Eval

If you think of your self as a bit of a race driver then here is the safest place to come and prove yourself at St Evals Go-Kart track. This is the only track to feature the award winning Le Mans Twin Engine Pro Kart that can go 70 MPH. All age groups are welcome and with four different circuits, arrive & drive sessions and spectator’s area the whole family will have a great time here.

Crazy Golf

Mawgan Porth

When in Mawgan Porth you have got to have a round of Crazy Golf, there is also a pitch and putt course to have a go on. Located on the beachfront the course gives you a radiant view over the golden sands of Mawgan Porth. Just over the road are local shops that can supply you with the best of what is local including fresh Cornish pasties and home made cakes, perfect for that fantastic Cornish holiday.

Waterworld

Newquay

This is a big swimming complex, great for every one. There is a 25m swimming pool, erupting volcano, tropical fun pool, snake floatie, cannon & tipper, fountain and water flumes. The pool is always kept to the high standards in terms of sanitation and cleanliness.

Camel Valley Vineyards

Padstow

This is the only vineyard in Cornwall and has been running for 20 years, producing world class, award-winning wines. The grapes that are grown here suite the soil and climate of these sun-drenched hills perfectly, which is why the wine created here is so exceptional. Combining traditional methods with a more modern approach gives these well looked after grapes an unmistakable taste and aroma, creating a very pleasurable wine.

Gardens

There are many great gardens in North Cornwall for those of you who appreciate those green fingered experiences.

Japanese Garden

Mawgan Porth

The Japanese Garden brings a real piece of Japan to Cornwall with over 120 named varieties of Acer palmatum planted there and a extensive Bonsai Nursery. This is a place for every one to find some peace and quiet.

Pencarrow

Bodmin

The history here dates back over 500 years and has won nomnations for best property in the UK. It supports 50 acres of woodland and gardens for you to explore.

Horse Riding

Reen Manor

Perranporth

Ride down the golden beaches and over the dunes at Perrenporths finest beach, then head through down the leafy wilderness bridle ways and end up at 16th century thatched inn with staff on hand to look after the horses. After a fine lunch including the best in local ales make your way home.

Bike Ride & Walking

Why not hire a bike and make your way around some of Cornwall’s easy to cycle routes including “The Camel Trail” and “Goss Moor” which are flat with good surfaces and Cycle hire shops positioned up and down the length of them.

Camel Trail

This is a disused railway line that has been converted in to a multi use track. Connecting Padstow, Wadebridge and Bodmin this 18 mile track goes through some of the most beautiful coastal scenes and magical woodland. There are cycle hire shops up and down the length of the track so travelling the trails is made ever so easy.


(photo by Jim Champion)

Goss Moor

This Moor is a wild national nature reserve with 480 hectare for you to explore. The trail is almost all flat and off road making it easy for the novice walker or cyclist to come and make the most of. There are set routes that you can follow but you're more than welcome to make your own way round the heathland, wetland or even scrubland.

Fishing

Where are plenty of different fishing opportunities around from local pools and lakes to taking a trip out into the deep sea.

Course Fishing

Mawgan Porths Pools-Lakes

Mawgan Porth

This pool has a wooden path that leads all the way round making it accessible to every one. There are plenty of fish in the lake, so it should not be long before you get your first catch. The position of the pool is in the beautiful are with majestic scenery all around.

Menalhyl River

Mawgan Porth

Set into the Vale of Lanherne, the River Menalhyl makes it way from the moors to St Mawgan and Mawgan Porth. To fish in the river you have got to buy a day pass, which can be bought from the Merrymoor Inn in Mawgan Porth for £5.
There is parking and good access to the river, the fish tend can hode under the bridge and all that you need to catch them is a hook and some bread.

Colliford Lake

Bodmin

This is a major location to come fly-fishing for brown trout. There are good services on site including car park, toilets, catering and picnic areas doted around, so Colliford Lake can be a day out for the whole family as well as an enjoyable fishing trip. The lake is set into the heart of Cornwall with 365 hectares of lake surface area and the stunning Golitha Falls a short walk down the road, well worth a look.

Temple Fishery

Mawgan Porth

This is a well-liked fishery with two lake to choose from, 2.7 acres and 4.5 acres in size. One is dedicated to fly fishing and on the other coarse fishing is allowed to catch a variety of fish that include Blue, Rainbow, Brown, Gold and Triploid trout. In depths between twenty and eleven feet, these sheltered lakes are stocked daily with fish averaging 2lb+ and the record catch is a 16lb brown.

Siblyback Lake

Bodmin

There is a circular walk that takes you all the way around the lake and two play areas, giving you more than just fishing to do here. Fly-fishing if the only method permitted and all anglers over the age of 12 year must have a valid Environment Agency rod licence. The biggest fish court was a 10lb 8oz rainbow trout.

Sea Fishing

Newquay Boatmen’s Association

Newquay

If you think you have got what it takes to adventure out in to the big blue then get yourself to Newquay harbour where there are many fishing trips every day. The angling boats are insured for up to 60 miles off shore and MCA licensed. The GPS and fish finder technology means you sure of a catch and then finding your way back to shore.