Online Information for Backpackers about NEWQUAY!

Surf capital of the UK, Newquay, is the most popular holiday destination in Cornwall. Once you’ve seen the beaches you’ll understand why.

If you’re a surfer, you’ll be in your element here. Beaches like Fistral and Watergate Bay are fantastic for this sport. Wind, tide and water combine to create the perfect wave! And even if you’re not a surfer, there’s plenty for you to enjoy. Why not while away the day soaking up the sun and stunning surroundings? Let's hope this summer brings in some tasty temperatures!

Aside from the sandy beaches, Newquay has a lot more to offer. The bustling town centre boasts restaurants, cafés and an active night life with clubs that stay open till the early hours. There’s also the award winning Newquay Zoo to explore with its oriental garden, tropical house and African plains.

So what are you waiting for? Get packing. Just don’t forget your flip-flops and beach towel.

by Liam Tullberg

tasty fare!

If you enjoy eating out, Newquay far from disappoints due to the wide range of restaurants on offer.

A must visit is the oldest restaurant in town, Ye Olde Dolphin. Established for over 50 years, the restaurant is in the centre of the town and offers an extensive traditional English menu specialising in locally sourced steaks and seafood. With fabulous food and window seats overlooking the bays, Ye Olde Dolphin offers an eating experience not to be missed.

Close to the beautiful Watergate Bay is another restaurant that’s sure to appeal. 'Fifteen Cornwall' offers modern, Italian-influenced dishes, using ingredients from Cornwall’s finest producers. With a menu that changes daily, customers enjoy food that’s in season and is at its very best. The restaurant, which won this year’s ‘Taste of England’ award, is one of Newquay’s newer venues and also one of the finest.

by Liam Tullberg

Did you know?...

Iron Age Man smelted ore in Newquay for weapons, while Industrial Age Man used the town to trade tin and china clay.

newquay festivals

Run to the Sun 2008: 23rd-26th May. Newquay. Celebrating its 22nd year, this is really a VW Owners Festival with lots of classic cars. There's plenty more things going on... DJs, up-and-coming bands and other events.

White Stuff Surf Relief Festival: 26th July, Watergate Bay. This beach festival combines live music, pro- surfing as well as an array of beach games for surfers and non-surfers alike to enjoy.

Rip Curl - Unleashed Festival: 8th August. Watergate Bay.This annual surf, music and skate festival has great music and a lively atmosphere.

animal anitics

Newquay Zoo, set in lush sub-tropical lakeside gardens, is a fun day out. Discover the rainforest exhibit and the stunning oriental garden as well as over 130 different species of animals. Why not do some good and adopt an animal to help reduce the number of species becoming extinct? An adoption costs just over 8p a day and helps continue the important work of wildlife conservation. See www.newquayzoo.org.uk for further details.