Cornwall Without a Car: The Ultimate Guide 2024

Wondering if you can easily explore Cornwall without a car? This guide has everything you need to know.  

Although Cornwall is considered a great road trip destination, you can still enjoy this beautiful coastal county without relying on four wheels. With advanced planning around public transport and strategic location choices, you can still visit many of the best spots in the area. 

My husband and I have explored Cornwall both by car and by public transport. While having your own vehicle makes life easier, I can attest that it is very much possible to travel around the county car-free. 

Read on to find out how you can plan a trip to Cornwall without relying on a car. 

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please note, I only recommend products and services that I know and love. Read full Privacy Policy here. 

Do You Need a Car to Holiday in Cornwall?

Since Cornwall is a remote, rural county, it is best explored by car, whether your own or hired. Having your own vehicle gives you the most flexibility and allows you to explore more remote areas and cover more ground. 

However, this doesn’t mean that you absolutely need a car to visit Cornwall. The county has a public transport network that includes buses and trains. Some people choose to explore this part of the UK by bicycle, and there are also sections that you can tackle on foot. 

As long as you plan your travels in advance and have realistic expectations about how much time you will need to visit the places you want, you can have a great time in Cornwall without a car. 

The first time my husband and I went to Cornwall, we drove to our base in Penzance and then took advantage of the local bus network to visit many nearby sites. This allowed us to not stress about driving along narrow country roads and simply enjoy the views. 

How to Get Around Cornwall Without a Car

Let’s dive deeper into transport alternatives, from buses to organised tours. Cycle and walking trails prove additional options for exploring the county.  

Public Bus

Public buses are one of the main ways to get around Cornwall without a car. The county effectively has two different networks. 

Local Buses

The first is the local network that covers all major towns, nearby villages, and historic sites. The network is delivered by different operators, but there is a push to have a unified system that accepts each other’s tickets. 

This network primarily serves the locals, but of course, tourists can take advantage of it as well. You can learn more about the timetables and available routes on the Go Cornwall Bus website. 

Tourist Buses

There is also a small bus network aimed specifically at tourists. The two hop on/hop off routes that are covered by it are called the Land’s End Coaster and the Atlantic Coaster. 

The Land’s End Coaster covers areas in the southwest of Cornwall and includes stops in places like Penzance, Porthcurno, Marazion, St Ives, and, of course, Land’s End itself. My husband and I used it extensively on our first visit to the county and loved the open-top ride, which allows you to take in the stunning scenery. 

The Atlantic Coaster covers the route between Newquay and Padstow in the north of Cornwall, along the Atlantic Coast. Although it’s not as extensive as its southwestern counterpart, it can still help you visit some of the beautiful villages and beaches in this part of the county. 

You can learn more about the stops and timetables for these buses on the Land’s End Coaster and Atlantic Coaster pages.  

The main downside of using these buses is that you will need to plan your travel around their schedules. Some services are infrequent which may affect your itinerary. 

This is not necessarily a big trade off if you are not a fan of driving along country roads though. 

Train

Another great way to get around Cornwall without a car is by train, with several scenic routes available. These routes take you along stunning coastlines, river estuaries, and woodlands. 

The mainline service runs between Plymouth and Penzance, which in turn, connects to other parts of the national network. For example, there is a direct service between London Paddington and Penzance. 

There are also five branch lines that can take you to different destinations within Cornwall. Here is the list of options that you have: 

• St Ives Bay Line from St Erth to St Ives 

• Looe Valley Line from Liskeard to Looe 

• Atlantic Coast Line from Par to Newquay 

• Maritime Line from Truro to Falmouth 

• Tamar Valley Line from Plymouth to Gunnislake 

One of the main downsides of taking the trains in the UK is that they are quite expensive. Be sure to book your rail tickets in advance to get the best price. 

Taxi

Taxis are unlikely to be your main method of getting around Cornwall, but it’s good to know they are available. They’re a great option if you need to get from the airport or train station to your accommodation. 

There are many taxi operators throughout Cornwall. Some only cover their local area, while others, like Roseland Taxis, can take you to any destination within the peninsula. Once you know where you are staying, you can research the local companies in your area. 

Taxis offer a convenient way to get around, but they come at a high cost. Also, you might not be able to get to where you want at short notice as some companies have small fleets. 

However, if you do plan on having a late night at the theatre or a night out, the local taxis can be really handy. 

Organised Tours

Joining an organised tour is another option for exploring Cornwall without a car. Since tourism is an important part of the local economy, there are many tour operators that offer trips exploring different parts of the county. 

For example, this all-day tour of Cornwall’s North Coast includes stops at Tintagel Castle, Newquay, Port Isaac, and Padstow for a lunch break. Pickup from accommodation in Cornwall is included as part of the tour. 

Those wanting to explore the south coast of the county should consider this full-day guided tour. It includes visits to Falmouth, St Mawes, and Mevagissey, as well as pickup from your accommodation. 

If your heart is set on West Cornwall, then this private tour will give you an extensive introduction to the area, including stops at St Michael’s Mount, Penzance, Mousehole, Land’s End, Sennen, and St Ives, among many others. 

Tours are pricey, of course, but they take care of the logistics and remove the need to drive to all these superb locations. 

Cycling

If you love travelling on two wheels, Cornwall offers a great selection of cycle trails that cover many scenic parts of the county. You can explore dramatic coast, quaint villages, and scenic woodlands, often with minimal traffic. 

It’s impossible to cover all the available cycle routes in one article, but here are some great ideas to help you start planning your adventure. 

If you are up for a multi-day cycling trip, consider tackling the Cornish Way, which runs from Land’s End in the southwest to Bude on the north coast. The route takes about 16 hours to complete and includes the coastal villages of Mousehole and Marazion at the start. 

The route splits at Truro, and you can choose to travel either via the coastal path, taking in Mevagissey and St. Austell. This option also allows you to visit the incredible Eden Project along the way. Alternatively, the route travels inland via Newquay and Padstow. 

Other great cycle trails worth considering are the Clay Trails near St Austell, which allow you to discover some truly unique scenery; the Camel Trail, which runs along a disused railway line connecting Bodmin and Padstow; and the Cornish Coast-to-Coast, which runs between Portreath and Devoran. 

Walking

Alongside the cycling routes, Cornwall also offers many hiking trails that allow you to experience the natural beauty of the county at a slower pace. 

While it is not realistic for most people to explore the county entirely on foot, there is an epic trail worth considering if you are up for a hiking adventure. Cornwall is part of the South West Coast Path, which features 630 miles (1,014 km) of stunning coastline. 

The path starts in Minehead in Somerset, runs along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, and ends in Poole Harbour in Dorset. The great news is that the path covers all of Cornwall’s coastline, so you can focus on just this county if you wish. 

If a multi-day hike doesn’t appeal, you can tackle sections of the path instead. The South West Coast Path website offers many short walk ideas in different parts of the county. 

Where to Stay in Cornwall Without a Car?

Choosing the right location will make travelling in Cornwall without a car much easier. My list focuses on places that offer many activities within their immediate area and have good transport connections. 

Penzance

Personally, I think Penzance is the best place to stay in Cornwall if you are not planning on driving. As I mentioned before, it’s on the main train line, and you can get there directly or with minimal changes. 

The town itself might not be the most charming, but there are plenty of activities in Penzance that will delight you. From its small art galleries and boutique shops to tropical gardens and historic pubs, there is something for everyone. 

What’s more, there are many bus services that connect Penzance to nearby places of interest. The Land’s End Coaster operates in the summer, making it easy to visit spots like St Michael’s Mount, Porthcurno Beach, Minack Theatre, and Land’s End. 

Last but not least, the town has a great selection of accommodation options at different price points. Check out this guide on where to stay in Penzance to find out more. 

St Ives

St Ives is the artistic heart of Cornwall, boasting numerous art galleries and scenic views that continue to inspire creatives to this day. Although getting there without a car involves an extra train change compared to Penzance, once you are there, you can enjoy everything this picturesque area has to offer. 

Visit the impressive Tate St Ives to enjoy modern and contemporary arts, walk in the footsteps of sculptor Barbara Hepworth at her home and studio, now a museum, savour local seafood at the many excellent restaurants, and, of course, enjoy the sand and sea at the St Ives beaches. 

St Ives is also part of the Land’s End Coaster route, which you can use to explore the sites of the southwest of Cornwall. You can also use local buses to reach nearby beaches like Carbis Bay. 

Newquay

Newquay on the north coast is one of Cornwall’s most popular destinations. It is home to stunning beaches that are perfect for surfing and other water sports, as well as many other activities for the whole family, from mini golf to fishing trips. 

Newquay is home to an airport that connects the area with other parts of the UK and even some international destinations. Taking a flight to Cornwall might be an easier option than taking a train, depending on where you are travelling from. 

From the airport, you can get into town by bus or taxi. If you choose to travel by train, you will need to make a change at Par. 

Newquay is on the Atlantic Coaster bus route, which can help you explore local sites such as Watergate Bay and Mawgan Porth. 

One of my favourite things about Newquay is the coastal trails in the area. There are some stunning spots you can discover on foot while staying there. 

Padstow

Padstow is another spot that sits on the Atlantic Coaster route and is a great option for foodies. This charming village boasts a picturesque harbour and a great selection of restaurants and pubs where you can savour local produce. 

Padstow is firmly associated with celebrity chef Rick Stein, who has several eateries in the area that offer delicious meals at different price points. He even runs his own cookery school, where you can master the art of preparing seafood dishes. 

Don’t worry; the dining scene in Padstow is not limited to Rick Stein. The town is also home to Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at No.6, perfect for a special occasion meal. 

Getting to Padstow without a car involves getting to Bodmin by train and then taking a bus or a taxi. Once you are there, you can take advantage of the walking and cycling trails, take a ferry to the coastal village of Rock across the River Camel, and use local buses to get to places that are further out. 

Falmouth

Falmouth is another great coastal town that you can reach by train, with a change from the main line at Truro. It is home to several beaches, a wealth of art galleries, independent shops, and historic attractions showcasing the area’s maritime heritage. 

The town is also known for its festivals, from the Falmouth Regatta to the International Sea Shanty Festival, along with smaller events that showcase the local foodie and arts scene. 

Additionally, the town boasts great walking and cycling trails within its vicinity. To explore more of the local area, you can also join a boat tour to enjoy the scenery and spot local wildlife. 

Fun fact: Falmouth is home to the third deepest harbour in the world, surpassed only by Sydney Harbour in Australia and the Port of Mahón in Minorca, Spain. For more information like this, check out these fun facts about Cornwall. 

Things to Do in Cornwall Without a Car

Of course, there are many things you can do in Cornwall without a car. The list below features some of my personal favourites, and they are all linked to the places that I recommended above. 

Visit art galleries in St Ives

I’ve already mentioned that St Ives is the artistic hub of Cornwall, and visiting its numerous art galleries is one of the best things to do while you are there. From the big hitters featuring iconic names to small local independents, there is so much to explore. 

Most of the galleries are located in the St Ives town centre, making them easily accessible on foot. This provides an easy activity for those staying in St Ives or visiting as part of their Land’s End Coaster adventure. 

Here is the list of St Ives art galleries to add to your itinerary:  

• Tate St Ives 

• Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden 

• Leach Pottery 

• Penwith Gallery 

• Gallery 38 

• Harbour Galleries 

Walk the South West Coast Path

I’ve already mentioned the South West Coast Path as a way of exploring Cornwall on foot. Whatever your plans, I highly recommend tackling at least one section of the path during your trip. 

You can access the path from all five places that I’ve recommended for staying if you are not planning on driving. The coastline varies quite a bit, so this might determine where you go if hiking this trail is a priority. 

The section from Falmouth to Portloe offers beautiful scenery, historic sites, and several excellent beaches to relax at. I also love the dramatic coastline around Newquay. Here is the list of the South West Coast Path walks that you can do around there. 

Enjoy the Sub-Tropical Gardens Near Penzance

Penzance boasts its own subtropical microclimate, which has resulted in a wealth of plants making this area their home. That’s why one of the best things to do in Penzance is exploring its collection of gardens to admire the area’s abundance of natural beauty. 

Morrab Gardens and Penlee Gardens are both located in the heart of Penzance, so you can easily walk there if you are staying in town. They contain plant species from all over the world and feature historic sites such as the Victorian bandstand in Morrab Gardens and the Penlee House Gallery and Museum in Penlee Gardens. 

The Trengwainton Garden, managed by the National Trust, is another must-see for nature lovers. It features a large collection of exotic plants as well as stunning views over Mount’s Bay. You will need to take bus 17 to get there from Penzance town centre. 

Visit St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s Mount is one of Cornwall’s most scenic historic sites, with its medieval castle perched atop a small tidal island overlooking Mount’s Bay. 

At low tide, visitors can access this site via a causeway that connects it to the nearby village of Marazion. At high tide, the island is accessible only by boat. 

While there, you can explore the castle, admire its stunning terraced gardens, and enjoy a picnic with sea views within its grounds. 

If you are staying in Penzance, you can take a bus directly to Marazion from the town centre. The trip takes about 10-15 minutes. 

Alternatively, Penzance and Marazion are connected via the South West Coast Path, so you can walk between them. It’s not the most exciting part of the trail, but it’s a good option if you feel like stretching your legs. The one-way walk takes about an hour. 

See a Show at Minack Theatre

Another great site within relatively easy reach from Penzance via the Land’s End Coaster is the Minack Theatre. It sits atop a cliff above the beautiful Porthcurno Beach, which is also worth a visit if you are heading out that way. 

The theatre looks as though it was carved out of stone many centuries ago. However, it is less than 100 years old. Catching a show there is an unforgettable experience. 

If attending a performance is not an option, you can still learn about the fascinating history of this cultural attraction by joining a guided tour or simply coming in for a wander during the day. 

Since it’s a popular attraction, you will need to pre-book your visit in advance. You can do this on the Minack Theatre website. 

Explore Coastal Paths at Land’s End

Another great spot that the Land’s End Coaster can get you to from either Penzance or St Ives is Land’s End. The most westerly point of mainland England, it is home to a stunning rugged coastline. 

Land’s End also features a touristy complex complete with a hotel, paid parking, eateries, shops, and audio-visual experiences. There is also a famous signpost, which is a popular photo opportunity, although you do need to pay to take a photo with it. 

You can easily bypass the tourist trap and spend your time exploring the coastal trails in the area. As part of your visit, you can also walk to the nearby Sennen Beach, which is simply stunning. 

Go Surfing at Fistral Beach, Newquay

If you are staying in Newquay, one of the best things to do there is to go surfing. The beautiful Fistral Beach is located within walking distance of the town centre, so you don’t need to worry about the logistics of getting there. 

The long, sandy beach is considered one of the best surfing spots in Cornwall and attracts surfers of all experience levels. Its easy accessibility does mean that it can get quite busy in the summer, but the beach is spacious enough to accommodate many people. 

If you’ve never tried this sport before, check out the lessons at Fistral Beach Surf School. As the name suggests, it’s located right on the beach and offers lessons for all skill levels and ages. 

Savour Cornish Flavours in Padstow

looking to experience the best of Cornish produce, particularly the seafood. Foodies exploring Cornwall without a car will find their travel efforts richly rewarded in Padstow. 

The casual restaurant, Prawn on the Lawn, celebrates local seafood in all its glory, featuring oysters, crab, lobster, and everything in-between. The menu changes daily depending on the catch of the day. 

Rick Stein’s flagship Seafood Restaurant is another must-try for those seeking the finest marine delicacies. The extensive menu combines the best local produce with international flavours and cooking techniques inspired by Stein’s travels. 

Another great spot to add to your itinerary is Caffè Rojano by Paul Ainsworth. If you need a break from seafood, this excellent eatery offers a blend of Mediterranean dishes and local produce. 

Meet the Locals on a Seal Safari

If you choose to stay in Padstow, don’t worry—eating your weight in seafood isn’t the only thing you can do there. In between meals, you can spot local marine wildlife in their natural habitat. 

Join Padstow Sealife Safaris for a seal-spotting boat trip along the Padstow coastline. Alongside the adorable grey seals, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot local birdlife. 

The trip starts right from the town’s harbour, making it easily accessible if you are staying in town. The cost is £27.50 per adult. You can book your spot here. 

Visit the Eden Project

To be frank, getting to the Eden Project without a car is a pain. However, it is possible with the right planning. 

The Eden Project is a unique initiative that explores the world of plants and humans’ relationship with them. Its most famous features are two futuristic domes that contain two drastically different natural environments within them: tropical and Mediterranean forests. 

Apart from the domes, visitors can also explore outdoor gardens and exhibitions within the wider grounds of the site. If you need a break from all the walking, you can grab a bite at one of the many cafes available on site. 

The best way to get there without a car is to travel to St Austell, a town on the main Plymouth to Penzance train line. From there, you can take a bus that will take you directly to the Eden Project. 

If you can organise your itinerary to include this attraction, I highly recommend a visit. You can book your ticket in advance—£38 per adult—on the Eden Project website. 

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve found this article helpful and now have more confidence in travelling around Cornwall without a car. 

Whether you are planning to drive or not, the county does have plenty to offer to visitors. This guide to the best things to do in Cornwall provides more activity inspiration.  

Trying to figure out how much time to spend in the county? This guide to how many days in Cornwall you need has got you covered.

If you are visiting for a short amount of time, this 48-hour itinerary in Cornwall will help you make the most of your trip. 

FAQs: Cornwall Without a Car

Enjoyed this guide to exploring Cornwall without a car? Bookmark or pin it for later. 

Related Reads: Cornwall, UK

• The 13 Best Things to Do in Cornwall 
• 13 Fun Facts About Cornwall
• How Many Days in Cornwall Do You Need: Ultimate Guide 2024
• How to Spend a Weekend in Cornwall: a 2-Day Itinerary 
• 12 Best Things to Do in Penzance, Cornwall 
• Where to Stay in Penzance, Cornwall: The Best Hotels, Guest Houses and Holiday Homes