Newquay’s Top 5 Art & Culture Spots: A Local’s Review
Okay, so you’re off to Newquay, you know, for the surf, the sand, and maybe just a little something different? That sounds super great! A lot of people think Newquay is all about catching waves, which is completely fair enough because the waves are truly fab, however, there’s quite a lively side to Newquay that usually gets overlooked: its art and culture. That actually goes a bit beyond seagulls and surfboards. As someone who’s basically lived in Newquay my whole life, let me show you my top five spots for soaking in a bit of that Cornish creativity.
1. Newquay Harbour Gallery: A View with a Hue
The Harbour Gallery, right there on the quayside, is absolutely our starting point. Basically, its location is amazing, but, to be honest, it’s the art that truly gets you. That seems clear enough. The pieces they have are usually reflecting the raw coastal charisma – lots of seascapes, of course, too it’s almost a given, and depictions of Newquay life. You will feel the salty wind just by gazing at some of the artwork. In some respects, there is always quite a diverse range, from conventional watercolors to much more modern abstracts, which usually means that there’s very nearly something for everyone. Plus, and here’s the thing, lots of the artists are locals, so, you know, you’re literally supporting the community while finding yourself a special keepsake. To be honest, it’s the perfect spot for a gift or to just grab an interesting memory to take back home.
Read our full review: Newquay Harbour Gallery Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check it out)
2. Lighthouse Cinema: More Than Just Movies
Okay, so now, you might be thinking, “A cinema? Art and culture?” However, hear me out. That is very important. Lighthouse Cinema is basically not just any old cinema. Sure, they show all the latest blockbusters, seemingly, which is awesome if you are keen for the new action flicks. They even display films by local filmmakers. Yet it’s their dedication to showing independent films, classic movies, and broadcasting National Theatre shows that certainly makes them unique. That, clearly, helps offer you some deeper cultural engagement. To be honest, picture this: it’s slightly pouring, you’ve spent your whole morning surfing, and instead of just sitting around in your hotel, you are just going to find an unknown, yet very great independent film with a pasty and a pint. Sounds fairly superb, right? Plus, and listen, they always hold some amazing little festivals and special showings. Usually there’s something great going on, so be sure to have a look at what is actually happening before you travel.
Read our full review: Lighthouse Cinema Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Get tickets)
3. Fistral Beach Arts and Crafts Market: Cornish Creations by the Sea
Speaking of surf… If you’re off to Newquay, you would more or less want to explore Fistral Beach anyway because, let’s face it, it is what Newquay is quite rightly known for. On specific dates, they put on these arts and crafts markets there. These markets have a super laid-back, yet awesome vibe. What will be available? Plenty of local artisans promoting everything from handmade jewelry crafted from sea glass, you know, the authentic things, to local photography and paintings, often really capturing the essence of the beach’s mood. That has proven true for a while now. Honestly, there isn’t really a better way to purchase unique pieces and actually support the local artists and crafters right where they take their inspiration. Keep an eye on the schedules, as, by the way, these usually depend on the time of year and weather, of course, yet when they do happen, they are seriously worth going to. It sounds great, clearly!
Read our full review: Fistral Beach Arts and Crafts Market Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Find market dates)
4. Newquay Museum: Step Back in Time
So now, if the rain kicks in, what do we do then? Alright, then maybe try the Newquay Museum. Of course, the surf’s very great, however, Newquay’s got rather a past! That means more than just boards and wetsuits! At the Newquay Museum, you’ll literally discover all of it. From its beginnings as a little fishing village to its rise as a serious surfing destination, very all of Newquay’s heritage is here to explore. So often, you might see displays about the local wildlife, the railway’s effect on the town, and, frankly, some genuinely interesting items retrieved from shipwrecks. It usually has a genuinely small, friendly feel to the area. That is certainly reassuring. Therefore, it really gives a good awareness of Newquay and what creates this little corner of Cornwall special. It feels a little small inside and very homely too it’s almost great to explore on your travels. Do be aware though as their exhibition program does actually tend to alternate too it’s almost good to be aware of this.
Read our full review: Newquay Museum Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Plan your visit)
5. Trenance Gardens: Nature’s Art
Speaking of nature! A break away from museums for a few minutes and, okay, if you appreciate something a little calmer, very stroll through Trenance Gardens. They are generally only a short walk away from the center, which certainly means they are an ideal spot for, to be honest, a relaxing wander. It’s clear they really keep the space pretty with, by the way, floral displays, a tea room in which to take a load off and also, yet a pretty cute boating lake. However, what really brings the artist out, a little, at the heart of many is that there is a garden particularly for sensory. Usually full of fragrant herbs and vibrant blooms and, really designed to stimulate your senses. You’ll easily lose just a little bit of time simply admiring all of it or taking photos that show you know art’s seriously literally everywhere, you know? Also they hold events throughout the season. The local brass band performs, too it’s almost very Cornish! Be sure to attend any seasonal activities that are running through Newquay, they may occur.
Read our full review: Trenance Gardens Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Explore Trenance Gardens)
