Whilst the ‘every day is a beach day’ mantra might be the plan for your Cornwall getaway –Truro, our cathedral city, is more than worthy of a day trip – and when the weather dampens beach plans it makes the perfect alternative.
I’ve picked just some of my favourite places to visit on a day out in Truro to inspire you to explore Cornwall’s only city for yourself –
Lemon Street Market
Lemon street itself was named after merchant William Lemon and was completed in 1831 – the houses are a fine example of Georgian Architecture using Bath stone. This historical street is also home to Lemon Street Market, which is a contemporary indoor shopping venue housing an amazing selection of independent shops.
I always love a visit to Wishlist, where much like the name suggests you will leave wanting everything! They have a dreamy selection of luxury homewares, clothing and accessories – from sumptuous velvet cushions to the best scented candles ever and lust-worthy delicate jewellery. You will find a further selection of wonderfully curated pieces amongst a unique collection of paintings, photography and illustration in the Atrium gallery which lives on the upper floor of the market.
Other favourite shops in the market are Rosewood Florists who always have a gorgeous selection of fresh, local flowers that tempt me (they also do amazing wedding flowers!), and Johns Liquor Cellar with their enormous selection of craft spirits, fine wines and local beers.
Lemon Street Market is also home to Truro’s Refill Store, where you can refill your own containers or use recycled paper bags provided to stock up on store cupboard basics like rice, pasta, cereals, spices, grains, pulses, dried fruits, nuts and seeds as well as body care and household cleaning products. A great way to lessen unnecessary single-use plastic consumption!
The Cornish Food Box
The Cornish Food Box are proud to work with more than 150 Cornish farmers and food producers – and it is THE place to go for special Cornish foodie treats! There Is an amazing array of produce available, from as fresh as it gets local veg to must have clotted cream and delicious Cornish chutneys and cheeses.
‘We sell produce that is grown, reared, caught or made here in the county, and a fair price is paid to everyone we work with’
The Cornish Food Box is a great pit stop if you’re enjoying a self-catering stay in Cornwall and want to cook up a storm in the kitchen, but it’s also the perfect place to pick up tasty local treats as gifts for friends and family.
Truro Cathedral
Soaring above the surrounding rooftops, it would be unthinkable not to include Truro Cathedral in this list! Designed by architect John Loughborough Pearson and completed in 1910 it is one of only three cathedrals in the UK which has three spires and is a magnificent example of gothic revival architecture. A must-see place to visit in Cornwall – and with free entry you can choose to spend as little or as much quiet time here as you like.
Everyone is welcome to visit simply to enjoy the tranquillity and the beauty of the building, but there are also regular services open to all and even free half term and summer holiday activities for children.
Emilys
There are so many great independent places to eat and drink in Truro, but I tasked myself with choosing just one and Emily’s is it!
This small but perfectly formed café is a hidden gem a short walk away from the main hubbub of the city towards the end of River Street. The interior is beautifully decorated with a modern hygge vibe – think cool whites and greys, earthenware crockery and eucalyptus stems galore and there is even a seriously stylish garden for lunch al-fresco.
If you’re looking for the perfect start to the day then Emily’s has a reputation for the best pancakes in town – and we can certainly back that up after numerous taste tests! For lunch there is always a great selection of choice, from epic frittatas to the best salads with veggie and vegan options a plenty.
And for an afternoon pick-me-up, freshly baked cakes and expertly made artisan coffee fits the bills perfectly! I have never been greeted with less than the warmest of welcomes on each of my visits to Emily’s and always look forward to returning.
‘Whatever you’re up for, we’re here for you. And yes, you deserve cake. Because darn it, you’re amazing’
And one last favourite worthy of a mention is Walsingham Place – a beautiful curved street of Georgian townhouses that sits in the centre of the city. Now frequently used as a walk through, a stroll down this street with its elegant arches and established rose bushes never fails to bring a smile to my face.
Discover more blog posts with ideas for great days out on your Cornish holiday –
