How big is Cornwall?
Cornwall is a county renowned for the unforgettable adventures that await, no matter whether you are seeking adrenaline-filled days out or total relaxation. The county has something for everyone, and you can enjoy a variety of attractions and activities.
Many people know Cornwall is a big county, but just how big is big? We have the answer, and we also share some interesting facts that you might not know about the Duchy of Cornwall.
How big is Cornwall in miles?
Cornwall is the 16th biggest county in England with an area of around 2,149 miles (3,459.1 km2), according to Wikipedia. This is significantly smaller than the largest counties in England, which are Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
ALSO READ: Cornwall explained: Frequently asked questions about Cornwall
How long is Cornwall’s coastline?
Cornwall’s coastline stretches 422 miles (697km), featuring plenty of beaches, cliffs and coves that are within easy driving distance from some of the best holiday parks in Cornwall. In fact, the county has the longest coastline in Great Britain.
How big is the population in Cornwall?
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the population size for Cornwall has increased from around 532,300 in 2011 to 570,300 in 2021. This is an increase of 7.1%, which surpasses the average population growth for England of 6.6%.
ALSO READ: The best places to visit in Cornwall for couples
What is the biggest town or city in Cornwall?
In terms of population size, Redruth (including Camborne) and Falmouth (Penryn) are the most populated towns in Cornwall, with a population size of 42,690 and 31,988, respectively. Below are the 10 most populated towns and cities in Cornwall, according to Wikipedia:
- Redruth (including Camborne): 42,690
- Falmouth (including Penryn): 31,988
- St Austell: 25,447
- Truro: 23,041
- Newquay: 20,189
- Penzance: 19,872
- Saltash: 15,566
- Bodmin: 14,614
- Helston: 12,184
- St Ives: 9,966
What is the tallest structure in Cornwall?
Cornwall is not well-known for its skyscrapers, but more for its Celtic language and food, including its Cornish fudge and Cornish ice cream.
The Caradon Hill transmitter mast, which has broadcast TV signals since 1961, is the tallest structure in the county. Perched on top of Caradon Hill, the mast itself rises 780 feet (238 m) above the moorland.
How big is Bodmin Moor?
The unique and popular Bodmin Moor, which is around a 40-minute drive from Looe, is an 80 square mile (around 190 square kilometres) area of outstanding natural beauty in Cornwall. The moorland is diverse and boasts granite outcrops, open moorland and wind-sculpted hills.
What is the biggest beach in Cornwall?
Cornwall is famous for its world-class beaches, but what is the biggest beach in the county? The biggest and longest beach in Cornwall is Gwithian, which stretches over four miles across St Ives Bay.
As well as the spectacular beach, you can visit the Godrevy Island lighthouse. The beach has lifeguard stations and is a popular one to visit for families.
How many beaches are there in Cornwall?
According to Cornwall Council, there are over 300 beaches in Cornwall, ranging from large sandy stretches to secluded coves. There is a beach for everyone in Cornwall, with some offering great surfing conditions and others perfect environments for families. If you have brought your dog with you and are staying in a pet-friendly caravan, there are lots of beaches around the coast of Cornwall that are pet-friendly.
ALSO READ: Best beaches in and near Looe
What is the biggest lake in Cornwall?
The largest natural lake in Cornwall is Loe Pool, which is only separated from the sea by a large strip of shingle. It can be accessed via the coastal path from Gunwalloe beach or the harbour town of Porthleven. In total, the lake is around 50 hectares (120 acres) in size.
Colliford Lake, which is a reservoir on Bodmin Moor, is the largest manmade lake in the county as it covers an area of more than 900 acres (3.6 km²), and The Association for Cornish Heritage states that it holds over 28,500 million litres of water when full.
Cornwall only has one neighbouring county
Cornwall is the only county in England that borders only one other county, Devon. The rest of the county is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean.
Cornwall is home to the largest indoor rainforest
The county of Cornwall is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, the Eden Project, one of Cornwall’s top attractions. The Rainforest Biome covers about 16,000m² and is 50m high, and you could fit the Tower of London inside it!
ALSO READ: 5 top Cornwall attractions for families
The largest fish in the world lives in Cornwall
The waters of the Atlantic Ocean around Cornwall are home to basking sharks, the largest fish in the world. They feed on plankton and are regularly spotted near the shoreline or in the harbours of towns and villages in Cornwall.
Where is the most visited place in Cornwall
St. Ives is widely regarded as the most visited place in Cornwall, as it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. St. Ives can get very busy at peak times, but it is a great place to visit, and it is around a one-hour and 20-minute drive from Looe.
Where is the biggest surf in Cornwall?
Newquay is a mecca for surfers from all over the world. The reef off the northern end of Fistral Beach welcomes what is known as the Cribbar once or twice every winter. This is a period when surfable waves of over 30ft arrive at this popular beach in Newquay.
ALSO READ: Cornwall Surfing: Where to learn to surf on your holiday
What is the highest cliff in Cornwall?
Funnily enough, the highest cliff in Cornwall is actually called High Cliff. This towering section of cliff between Crackington Haven and Boscastle is part of a rugged section of coastline in North Cornwall.
The cliff is around 735 feet (220 metres) tall, around three times Truro Cathedral’s height. If you decide to visit this part of the county, you can enjoy some spectacular views from the top of the cliff.
Discover Cornwall for yourself
From the most popular town and city to the biggest lake, this guide has highlighted some of the best facts about the size of Cornwall. Our Cornwall holiday park in Looe is the perfect base for exploring some of these amazing locations and attractions. Book your holiday at Tencreek Holiday Park and enjoy all that Cornwall has to offer.
