Exploring the Diverse Culture of Cornwall
One of the most enjoyable aspects of renting a holiday cottage in Cornwall is the chance to spend relaxing evenings in front of the fire after a good day's adventuring, but if you're staying for more than a few nights it can be fun to have a change of scene. The region may be known for its staggering natural beauty and rich seams of history, but that doesn't mean that its entertainment scene should be overlooked. From its proud folk music tradition to its vibrant theatre companies, the county offers something to suit every culture lover's tastes. Here are just a few ideas for great nights out - or days out, for those who prefer to get home early - that can be had in this inspiring region.
The Eden Sessions
Top of many people's lists of what to see while staying in a holiday cottage in Cornwall is the Eden Project, with its incredible domed greenhouses containing steamy forests and its graceful gardens teeming with common and rare plant species. It is certainly worth a visit for anyone interested in natural science and the environment. Thanks to its events programme, however, it is also brilliant for music lovers. Described as one-day music festivals, its Eden Sessions feature some of the world's most popular and talented artists, and take place in the Project's stunning grounds during the warm afternoons of the Cornish summer.
The Folk Scene
For anyone who enjoys good folk music, staying in a holiday cottage in Cornwall is a golden opportunity to investigate one of the most vibrant folk scenes in Britain. No matter where you go, there will be chances to hear local bands, and regular folk nights abound in the towns and cities. If you're staying anywhere near Truro, it is well worth investigating the monthly Troyl Club, which features music, dancing, storytelling, and more, while Penzance has the fortnightly Benbow Folk music sessions. In smaller towns, look out for pubs with live music nights, and who knows what you'll discover? And, if your holiday takes place in August, there's the Cornwall Folk Festival in Wadebridge, where the audience can get a taste for the full spectrum of Cornish folk music.
The Minack Theatre
If you're thinking of taking in a play during your stay in a holiday cottage in Cornwall, there are a number of great theatres to choose from - but for sheer atmosphere nothing beats the Minack Theatre, located in Porthcurno near Land's End. An open-air amphitheatre carved into the granite cliffs and facing the open sea, it is unlike any other performance venue. Its season runs from June to September, and features companies from across the country and the world. As well as being an inspiring place to watch a performance, it is a breathtaking site in its own right, with its windswept botanic gardens and views of the turquoise sea.
The Eden Sessions
Top of many people's lists of what to see while staying in a holiday cottage in Cornwall is the Eden Project, with its incredible domed greenhouses containing steamy forests and its graceful gardens teeming with common and rare plant species. It is certainly worth a visit for anyone interested in natural science and the environment. Thanks to its events programme, however, it is also brilliant for music lovers. Described as one-day music festivals, its Eden Sessions feature some of the world's most popular and talented artists, and take place in the Project's stunning grounds during the warm afternoons of the Cornish summer.
The Folk Scene
For anyone who enjoys good folk music, staying in a holiday cottage in Cornwall is a golden opportunity to investigate one of the most vibrant folk scenes in Britain. No matter where you go, there will be chances to hear local bands, and regular folk nights abound in the towns and cities. If you're staying anywhere near Truro, it is well worth investigating the monthly Troyl Club, which features music, dancing, storytelling, and more, while Penzance has the fortnightly Benbow Folk music sessions. In smaller towns, look out for pubs with live music nights, and who knows what you'll discover? And, if your holiday takes place in August, there's the Cornwall Folk Festival in Wadebridge, where the audience can get a taste for the full spectrum of Cornish folk music.
The Minack Theatre
If you're thinking of taking in a play during your stay in a holiday cottage in Cornwall, there are a number of great theatres to choose from - but for sheer atmosphere nothing beats the Minack Theatre, located in Porthcurno near Land's End. An open-air amphitheatre carved into the granite cliffs and facing the open sea, it is unlike any other performance venue. Its season runs from June to September, and features companies from across the country and the world. As well as being an inspiring place to watch a performance, it is a breathtaking site in its own right, with its windswept botanic gardens and views of the turquoise sea.
