Cornwall is the UK's number one holiday destination for numerous well known reasons, and rightly so, as it is a fantastic place to visit.
It can seem at times like it takes forever to get here, but it is without a doubt worth the journey. Here are some helpful tips for getting here and navigating around:
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If you are driving in Cornwall stay on the A30 to get anywhere fast, it is mostly dual carriageway. The alternative A38 road is a much slower route.
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Cornwall attracts a high volume of traffic in the summer so the main A30 route can get congested especially at weekends and bank holidays, to avoid being stuck in traffic try to travel overnight, early in the mornings or later in the day. Look to avoid peak rush hours.
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Do not use the “shortest route' option on your sat nav, it will take you off faster A roads and down roads and narrow lanes that are no wider than a car, much longer in the long run. More precarious and testing for your nerves.
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There are daily train services that will take you and your companions down to pretty much anywhere in Cornwall. Direct train services are operated from most major cities.
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Be prepared to be patient when driving here, it is not uncommon to encounter stray livestock, slow tractors, cyclists, windy roads and corkscrew bends, it is best to take it slowly it avoids any potential problems. Be prepared to 'hedge-it' as the locals say, to make room for two cars on the narrow roads. Reversing into a tight space is frequently required so get confident with this manoeuvre. Local etiquette dictates that the driver nearest a passing place pulls in, so be prepared to reverse up hills, round tight binds and blind corners. After passing it is then customary to exchange waves before continuing with your journey.
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If travelling by car you have to pay £2.00 to leave Cornwall, the Tamar Bridge has a toll charge, make sure to have some loose change available. Only payable one-way on the trip from Saltash (Cornwall) to Plymouth (Devon).
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The locals are not keen on you calling Cornwall a county they prefer its historic description as a Duchy, some even view it as a separate country.
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Please make sure to remove all your rubbish from the beaches especially plastic, there are litter bins provided. The beaches and their environment are very important to the Cornish people.
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If heading to the beach follow the simple beach rules. Know the tides, the last thing you want is to be cut off and stranded by the tide and needing help. Some of the beaches disappear at high tide and get crowded so best to be prepared.
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Rip tides and strong currents are a hidden danger for anyone in the water, it is advisable to only swim between the flags on the beach and where there is a lifeguard on duty. Most of the popular beaches have a lifeguard on duty from May to September.
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If out and about in the countryside in the spring and summer it is important to be aware of ticks, these can cause diseases like Lyme disease. Wear an insect repellant when walking through the countryside especially through dense vegetation and long grasses in moist areas. After a walk make it a habit to do a tick check, look over your clothes and body for any ticks to brush off. They can look like a speck of dirt or a tiny freckle so be observant.
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The most important rule here is in relation to the traditional cream tea, you must always, always put the jam on the scone first, followed by the cream, so it doesn't all off. Under no circumstances do it the other way, that is the Devon way and not looked upon favourably here.
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Cornish pasties should be eaten from a bag and not with a knife and fork. As it is a meal in itself it does not require any sides.
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Portwenn in Doc Martin is fictional so don't make the mistake of asking for directions to here. It is Port Isaac that you want.
Cornwall is the ultimate staycation destination, once here there is so much to see and do, it really is a fabulous retreat and perfect for all ages.