Celebrating Valentine's Day in Cornwall.

Are you planning a romantic Valentine’s Break in Cornwall? We are hopeless romantics here at Cornish Escapes, so we have drawn up a list of our favourite places in Cornwall for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Whether spa days and romantic restaurants are what make your partner feel special, or sunset walks and cosy pubs are more their style, we have suggestions for everyone. For couples that want options that are a little out of the ordinary, we also have some great ideas for unusual things to do to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Cornwall.

Things to Do on Valentine’s Day in Cornwall.

Cornwall is an especially excellent choice for couples who prefer celebrate Valentine’s Day a bit differently – read on for some inspirational ideas.

Romantic Days Out in Cornwall.

Where are the best places for a romantic day out in Cornwall? With its links to the Arthurian legend, dramatic Tintagel Castle is a real favourite. The castle and gardens of St Michael’s Mount may be closed; however, you can still walk across to the island to explore the harbour and village of one of Britain’s most romantic landmarks.

Trengwainton Garden near Penzance (National Trust) blooms earlier than most gardens, thanks to its glorious magnolia and camellia collections. The winding paths and walled gardens make Trengwainton a wonderful place for a romantic stroll, even this early in the season.

For couples that enjoy looking at art together, spend a morning or afternoon at Tate St Ives (include a cafe break in your itinerary, as the views are incredible). Combine your love of art and nature with a day at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens near Penzance, which is also an excellent place to eat and drink.

Special Romantic Activities on Valentine’s Day in Cornwall.

If you love the idea of relaxing together, why not bring the pampering to your doorstep?  Home Spa Cornwall bring the spa to you, whether you would just like 30 minutes of pampering or a whole day and evening of treats, there is something to suit everyone.  

For couples who like to share an adventure, yes, you can still take a surfing lesson in February (find out more about winter surfing here). If you want to test your talents together but prefer a warmer environment, Philleigh Way Cookery School offers a great range of classes.

Wild and romantic places in Cornwall.

If your idea of romance is more Heathcliff and Cathy than Hallmark, you will love Cornwall’s wild landscape. Head for the moors of West Cornwall for glorious sweeping ocean views: Bartinney nature reserve is especially lovely, or set out along the coast path, pausing at pretty coves (or detouring to cosy pubs) along the way.

Blend romance with your love of history by exploring some of Cornwall’s ancient sites. Men-an-Tol (“The Holed Stone”) is a Bronze Age monument in the countryside near Madron, made up from a distinctive tyre-shaped stone and three granite pillars (warning: this site has long been associated with fertility…). The Merry Maidens stone circle near St Buryan is another remote and beautiful spot, or head up to the ancient hill fort on Trencrom Hill, where you will get incredible views over both coasts.

Romantic Beach Strolls in Cornwall.

What do you mean, not in February? The winter is simply the best time to go to the beach if you are looking for a romantic experience. The empty sweep of sand, the wind in your hair, the crashing of the waves… honestly, a Cornish beach in February is the stuff of movies.

The best romantic beach has to be Porthcurno, with its year round silver sands and turquoise sea (although of course, we also love our local St Ives beaches). 

Prefer a more secluded and hidden beach? Porthgwarra is a pretty little cove in the west, complete with intriguing old smugglers’ caves and fishing boats. You might recognise Porthgwarra from BBC’s Poldark (just please do not re-enact the skinny dipping scene here. Not in February at least…).

Sunset Walks on Valentine’s Day in Cornwall.

Cornwall’s stunning scenery makes it the perfect destination for a Valentine’s weekend for couples who like to go for a walk together. Trencrom Hill (near St Ives) is a romantic place for a glass of fizz while you watch the sun go down (weather permitting!). This National Trust managed hill has sweeping views across West Cornwall and you can explore the remains of the Neolithic fort. Trencrom has a small car park at its foot (TR27 6NJ ish), or you can reach it via the St Michael’s Way footpaths.

The South West Coast Path is packed full of breathtakingly beautiful stretches for a romantic walk. Try the paths around Zennor or Mousehole, or head up Cape Cornwall for wild Atlantic views. Just be aware that this is February in West Cornwall and the footpaths may be wet and muddy. Still, wellies can look sexy on the right person, yes?

Romantic Food and Drink on Valentine’s Day in Cornwall.

Cornwall, and especially St Ives, has some fantastic food and drink options with regards to a romantic, Valentine’s Day meal. Discover some tips and tricks below!

Find a Cosy Pub on Valentine’s Day.

After braving the elements at the top of Trencrom, you need a cosy pub. A snug table in the corner of an old inn, ideally with an open fire, is perfect for a romantic evening. The medieval Victoria Inn in Perranuthnoe (between Penzance and Helston) serves excellent food in a lovely environment. 

The Tolcarne Inn in Newlyn is another cosy old pub serving excellent food. If you would like a pub with a romantic view, there is nowhere to top the Godolphin Arms, which is at the foot of the causeway to St Michael’s Mount.

Other top picks include the Gurnard’s Head in Zennor.

Book a Romantic Restaurant on Valentine’s Day.

Carn Brea Castle Restaurant is almost too romantic to be true: aromatic Middle Eastern food served in an actual castle. The Sawalha family has created a truly unique destination in this 18th century hilltop hunting lodge, which has glorious views across the Cornish landscape. Share some mezze at a cosy candlelit table in this incredible venue.

Other recommendations for a romantic dinner for two include The Shore in Penzance (stunning food) and 2 Fore Street in Mousehole. Stroll along Mousehole harbour and around its narrow old lanes after your meal.

Other top picks include the Tremenheere Kitchen (during the day). Check out our guide to hidden cafes for an even wider choice of romantic meals during the day.

Valentine’s Day Gifts.

You can easily find traditional Valentine’s Day presents here in Cornwall, but with a local twist. Pick up a bottle of Camel Valley sparkling wine or a bouquet of beautiful flowers from Zennor Wild in Penzance. Add a box of chocolates from Trenance and you have the Holy Trinity of Valentine’s Day gifts, Cornish-style.

We are lucky to have so many talented jewellers in Cornwall: walk down the main shopping street in any town and you will come across a wonderful choice of exquisite artisan jewellery: look out for sea glass designs for a real Cornish feel. Choose an artwork or print of a place in Cornwall that means something to you, or indulge yourself in some luxurious local beauty products from a brand like the Cornish Seaweed Bath Company.