From camping on the Lizard to sailing the open seas, here's how to explore Cornwall.

Renowned surf beaches, stunning coast paths and the World Heritage Site industrial heartland. Our location offers countless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. 

On the water

Revel in the north coast’s bounty of surf spots. Slip into a drysuit and deep dive into clear waters. Hoist the sails or jump into a kayak to explore tucked away bays. Whether you’re swimming, surfing, SUPing or sailing there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of studying by the sea. The Students’ Union hosts clubs for all sorts of water sports, which are a great way to meet new people too.  

Hire companies 

Need to hire equipment? There are plenty of places offering watersports rentals. Here are just a few to get you started. 

Surf schools

If you're new to surfing, why not join a surf school? You'll learn to ride while being supported by qualified instructors. 

A group of surfers walking down a coast path with surf boards under their arms
Surfing catching a wave.
Four people standing on beach with paddles and paddle boards.
Student diving backwards out of a dinghy.
Group of paddle boarders doing yoga on boards.

Kayakathon founder Matthew Loots received business support after graduating from BA(Hons) Creative Events Management.

FXU Sailing Club

Student in wetsuit jumping from wall into the water.

Cliff jumping in Cornwall

Tremough Quidditch Club

Falmouth student life. Photo: Benjamin Lum Kin

Cornwall offers a host of special places to explore

The view from Falmouth harbour

Kayaking in Cornwall. Photo: Emily Tapp

One of two stunning beaches within 10 minutes walk from Falmouth Campus

Falmouth students sat on harbour wall looking out to ship and sunset.

Views of the Falmouth harbour

Cornwall offers a host of special places to explore. Photo: Jonathan Vivaas Kise

On land

From rambling on Bodmin Moor, walking the craggy coast paths and climbing cliffs to cycling the backroads and pitching a tent in one of the many beautiful campsites across the county, there’s plenty of fun to be had on land too. Why not join the Expedition Society, or the Cycling Club, or perhaps you’re more into horse riding? Discover all our clubs and societies for outdoor pursuits

Our top camping spots 

Our top 5 hidden gems in Cornwall

1. Kynance Cove

If turquoise waters and a picturesque cove float your boat then you have to visit Kynance Cove. It's on the Lizard, the UK's southern-most tip. Great all year round, but you will need a car to get there.

Perfect for: Unspoilt beauty and coast-path walks.

2. Rinsey Cove

Located between Porthleven and Praa Sands. Rinsey Cove sits at the bottom of cliffs overlooked by the old engine house of Wheal Prosper mine. Accessible at low tide, the footpath is a bit of a climb down but it's worth every step.

Perfect for: Taking in the sea air and exploring the Cornish coast.

3. The Orchard at Penryn Campus

We're not going to tell you where the orchard is on the campus because half the fun is finding it yourself. It's more a secret garden than an orchard and you'll quickly feel like you've stepped into a different world once you find it.

Perfect for: Lazy lunches away from the campus crowds.

Orchard at Penryn campus
Kynance Cove
Secret garden at penryn campus

4. The Helford

Just a few miles from Falmouth, you'll find the stunning Helford Passage. Explore its seven creeks by kayak, stop off at Helford Passage for a pint in the pub and explore the nearby gardens. Relax in the sub-tropical paradise of Trebah and puzzle your way out of Glendurgan's magnificent maze!

Perfect for: Getting lost in nature.

5. The Roseland

The Roseland is probably Cornwall's best place no one knows about. From the amazing Hidden Hut through to expanses of golden sand, you could get lost for days exploring the Roseland. Get there on the St Mawes Ferry from Falmouth (where you get discounted travel) and then start your adventures.

Perfect for: Escaping the crowds in good weather and brilliant day trips.

Getting around

Much of Cornwall is explorable by public transport. From Falmouth train station you can catch the swell in Newquay or walk the St Ives coatline. Ferries will take you to Flushing, St Mawes and the Roseland Heritage Coast. And local bus services run regularly across Cornwall too. 

From subsidised bus journeys to our cycle scheme, find out more about getting around