The hustle and bustle of the summer season is soon over. So what is it exactly that draws visitors to our wonderful region between September and November? Here are 5 great reasons for visiting Cornwall and Devon this autumn.
Nature
OK – so every season here has its charm, but autumn can be one of the most spectacular. Our grounds are awash with deep oranges and golden browns, and the hedgerows are heavy with berries. Even a brisk walk to our local post box offers a punnet of blackberries to eagle-eyed visitors, and there are conkers galore. For a more exotic splash of colour, visit any of the gardens in the South West; The Eden Project offers visual treats like purple leaved plum trees and yellow willow, while RHS Rosemoor even has autumnal flowers such as Lobelia and Monarda.
As for wildlife, you may also be treated to our favourite wildlife event – the spectacular starling murmurations, in which vast numbers of birds swoop in huge displays. See our blog post here for ideas of where to see them.
Weather
It may seem peculiar to list the weather as a great reason to visit Cornwall in the autumn, but hear us out. On average September gets as little rainfall as July, and temperatures are only a degree and a half lower. Even more surprising, is that the average sea temperature in September is actually warmer than July (though be careful if you choose to go in – there is less lifeguarding than over the summer). Thanks to the gulf stream, the South West enjoys a very mild autumn, and we normally only get a frost or two by the end of November. And when it finally does turn a little nippy, there are plenty of cosy pubs with roaring log-fires, or friendly cafes serving cream teas.
Peace and Quiet
We love the hustle and bustle of summer, and it’s great to see visitors enjoying our beautiful part of the world. However, we can’t deny a certain relief when autumn comes our way. No more driving around for parking spaces, no more endless traffic jams, and a good chance of getting the beach more-or-less to yourself. Similarly, many of the attractions will be considerably less busy until the October half-term.
Dog-friendly beaches
Some local beaches are dog-friendly year round (see our blog post here), but for most of the others, we need to wait until autumn comes our way before taking Fido for a paddle – the first of October to be precise. Letting them off their leads and watching them racing across the sands is a sight for sore eyes!
But it’s not just dog-friendly beaches. In a 2016 survey, autumn visitors to our region rated our beaches even more highly than summer visitors. This is probably because you will find them much quieter, yet usually surprisingly mild.
Autumn events
Autumn has some cracking events to offer. From beer and food festivals, to some early Christmas fairs that give you a chance to stock up for winter. Here are a few of our highlights in the local area:
Eden Beer Festival
Callington Honey Fair
Oktoberfest Truro
Launceston Carnival
Mid Century and Vintage Fair, Newquay
Holsworthy Carnival,
The Cornish Winter Fair, Wadebridge
Of course, this list doesn’t include the many themed events taking place for Halloween or Bonfire Night. We also include an up-to-date what’s on guide so you don’t miss out on anything while you stay with us.
Have we missed your favourite autumnal event or another great reason to visit this season? Let us know in the comments below!
