How to spend the perfect day in St Agnes, Cornwall

St Agnes (affectionally known as ‘Aggie’ to locals) is a pretty coastal village just 10 miles southwest of Newquay. Its picturesque streets, award winning pubs and rich mining heritage make it popular with tourists. Most people only stop here for an hour or two, and I think it’s worth spending the entire day exploring. Here’s how you can spend the perfect day in St Agnes.

Coffee – The Sorting Office Coffeehouse

Every day, for me at least, simply must start with caffeine. And the best place to get it in town is The Sorting Office Coffeehouse. Formerly a post office (hence the name) it’s super cosy inside, with beautiful interiors and friendly staff. They do a great flat white and I hear their carrot cake is to die for.

Breakfast – Genki

If cake for breakfast is not really your thing, take the wonderfully named Stippy Stappy street down towards the coast and stop at Genki for a healthy brekkie in a lovely surrounding. Often welcomed at the door by the owner’s little dogs, you’ll find the inside is tiny but the gardens more than make up for it. Order a smoothie bowl and sit amongst the various plants and flowers. Feels a bit like being at a rainforest retreat!

Snack for later – St Agnes Bakery

On your way down to Genki, you’ll walk past my favourite bakery in Cornwall. St Agnes Bakery has been making pasties, cakes and bread here since 1905. If the almost permanent queue doesn’t give it away, let me tell you: these guys really know what they’re doing. They also have loads of vegan options, and I recommend the giant sausage rolls. Whether you go for a classic flavour, or one of the more unique offerings (check their board for daily specials) I can pretty much guarantee it will be delicious. Save it in your bag for snacking later.

Beach morning – Trevaunance Cove

Whether you enjoy a mid morning swim or just want to laze about on a stretch of sand, Trevaunance is a lovely little cove. Watch the local boats come in as local families build sandcastles and dogs splash around in the shallows. Just keep an eye on any rip currents if you do venture into the water!

Lunch – Schooners

Owned by Cornish brewery Verdant, Schooners is a perfect place for a post-swim pint. Grab a table on the decking overlooking the sea if you can, and dig into their delicious sourdough pizzas from 12pm. There’s a friendly, beachy vibe here and you’ll probably be tempted to have another drink before tearing yourself away.

Afternoon hike – Trevellas Cove

To walk off the pizza and beer it’s time to hit the coast path. Pick it up right next to the Driftwood Spars pub and climb steadily to get a cracking view of the cove. Then its on to Trevellas Cove, which is about a 20 minute walk. Take care on the way down as it’s pretty steep. This tiny beach is usually very quiet and great for rockpooling.

Dinner – The Tap House

Run by the same team since 2001, the Tap House is a local favourite. Their bright, beachy decor, which they refer to as apres-sea, is matched by fresh, delicious dishes at affordable prices. They’re known for their poke bowls, but there are also burgers and small plates on offer. Add in a cocktail or 3 and you might end up spending the entire evening right here.

Sunset – Wheal Coates

If you aren’t quite ready to finish exploring (and you opted for non alcoholic cocktails!) then jump in your car and head to one of our go-to sunset spots. Wheal Coates is one of the most photographed places in Cornwall. The mine is perched dramatically on the cliffs, and in the summer and autumn is surrounded by purple heather. It actually tends to be fairly quiet towards the end of the day, and is therefore a terrific sunset spot. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

WHERE TO STAY: The St Agnes Hotel is in the centre of town and rooms are roughly £150 per night for a double. It’s a great location and the bar downstairs is popular with guests and locals alike. Book direct here.

Alternatively the Driftwood Spars offer bed and breakfast with sea views above a cracking pub, famous for its home brewed ales. It’s great if you want to get in a lovely early morning swim. Pricres for a double start from £130 per night. Book a stay here.

That’s how i would spend the perfect day in St Agnes. If you’d like to know more about other places in Cornwall, take a look here.