Newquay - the surfer paradise of Great Britain

From the north of England, I took a long, completely overcrowded train journey that was one or two hours delayed down to the southwest of Great Britain. Off to Cornwall. 
Since there was no place to sit in the train, I quickly took a seat in the luggage compartment with my backpack. This led to some jealous glances and a few good conversations with fellow passengers who gradually gathered in my aisle.

Eventually, I was able to leave the crowded train and get some fresh air before boarding the final train. 

From Wakefield, I took the train at five in the morning to Newquay, a six-hour journey. 

Newquay is a popular destination for many because it is located on the coast where you can surf in Great Britain. The first glimpse of the sea was breathtaking.

And indeed, I know lovely people in Newquay with whom I was able to stay for half a week. An old family from kindergarten. The older child was my key child in kindergarten, and later I also tutored them in German until they moved to Cornwall. 

A little outside, right next to a sheep pasture and with a view of the sea, lies the beautiful old farmhouse with a small extra Airbnb apartment where I was allowed to stay for a few days. 

I was welcomed not only by a beautiful environment but also by the most wonderful summer weather. On my first real day, I went for a hike from Watergate Bay into downtown Newquay. Google estimated the route to take 2½ hours. With regular stops to enjoy the view, take photos, and swim, I ultimately took just over five hours to get there and about three to return. I want to share with you the pictures from this beautiful path along the cliffs:

With every small or big cove, I got a little closer to Newquay and eventually, I could see the town behind the cliffs.

Not all coves are accessible. The one in the upper picture is currently closed due to potential collapses. That’s unfortunate, but even from above, it was beautiful to look at. 

At the next cove, I took a longer break for a swim. 

After swimming, I continued on directly to Newquay. 

Like many towns in Cornwall, Newquay is also an artist town. Many different artists have their studios and galleries here. But a lot of street art can also be found. 

I found the fisherman particularly interesting because his appearance reminded me a lot of my best friend’s father. And surfing is also reflected in the art.

Then, of course, I had to eat a Cornish pasty. This is a large filled pastry. Even though I was warned, it had to happen. Well hidden in the bag and protected by my hand, a gull still swooped in from above, jabbed its beak through my fingers, and stole half of my pasty. Shocked and with painful fingers, I made my way back. But at least I wasn’t the only one. On my way through the town, several people had their food stolen.

On my way back, I enjoyed the different coves one more time.

It was a really nice long trip and after 28,000 steps, I was quite exhausted. 

The next day, I took a short trip to Padstow. This is a small harbor town about 45 minutes away from Newquay. In the most beautiful weather, I checked out the place and of course also went for a swim.

I then spent the afternoon with the family and we all went to the beach together, built sandcastles, and enjoyed time together. 

It was lovely to see the whole family again. I was shown the new school, and we just played a lot together. 

Evenings were spent at the cozy little Airbnb or outside watching the sunsets. 

All in all, I really enjoyed my time here in Newquay! It was also the perfect combination: summer weather, the sea, great hikes/excursions, and lovely people I know from London and was able to visit! I found it a bit hard to leave this beautiful place, but I really hope to come back one day.