Truro

Truro, Cornwall's only city, makes a central base for reaching the county's famous beaches, wild swimming spots and hidden coves. With its three-spired cathedral and Georgian streets, it sits close to both the south coast's sheltered creeks and rugged Atlantic shores. Our guides bring together the best beaches within reach, secret hidden gems, refreshing wild swimming spots, a wider set of places to visit, and day trips for exploring more of Cornwall's celebrated coastline and countryside.

Best Beaches Near Truro

Surf-swept Perranporth, sheltered Porthcurnick and Chapel Porth are among the best beaches near Truro, two very different Cornish shores within easy reach.

Best Places to Visit Near Truro

Best places to visit near Truro follow Cornwall's creeks and coves, from Loe Beach and Porthcurnick to Kennall Vale and the wooded Carnon Viaduct trail.

Best Wild Swimming Spots Near Truro

Around Truro, Cornwall's rugged north coast strings out sea and tidal pools for wild swimming, from Porthtowan and Trevone to Piskies Cove and Kynance Cove.

Hidden Gems Near Truro

Truro's hidden gems sit among creeks and old mining country, from Kennall Vale and Gwennap Pit to Carn Marth, the Newham Trail and Lamorran House Garden.

Top Beaches Day Trips from Truro

Truro sits between two coasts, so its beaches range from surf at Perranporth and Chapel Porth to the sheltered sands of Porthcurnick, Towan and Flushing.

Top Hidden Gems Day Trips from Truro

Carnon Viaduct, Gwennap Pit and the quarry pools of Carn Marth are among the hidden gems near Truro, Cornwall's quieter corners sitting close to the city.

What are the best beaches near Truro?

Truro's central Cornwall position puts both sheltered south-coast beaches and wilder Atlantic surf sands within easy reach. Our beaches and day-trip guides cover the best options, from family-friendly bays to dramatic stretches ideal for surfing and long coastal walks.

Where can you go wild swimming near Truro?

The area offers tidal creeks, hidden coves and sea swimming spots within a short drive of the city. Our wild swimming guide highlights the best places to take a dip, with notes on access, though you should always check tides and conditions first.

What is there to do near Truro?

Plenty. Central Cornwall combines beaches, coastal paths, gardens and characterful villages, all within easy reach. Our places-to-visit and hidden gems guides gather the standout attractions and quieter corners, helping you plan days across both of Cornwall's coasts.