Truro, England is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and attractions. From ancient cathedrals to bustling markets, Truro has something for every traveler.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, check out these 15 best things to do in Truro. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, these activities will make your trip to Truro one you won’t forget.
So pack your bags and get ready to explore all the wonders that Truro has to offer.
Visit the Truro Cathedral
Visiting the Truro Cathedral is an awe-inspiring experience that can’t be missed when visiting Truro, England.
Set on the highest point of the city, this grand structure has an impressive history that dates back to the 12th century when it was a small monastery.
The present-day cathedral was built in the 19th century, and it’s the only one in Cornwall, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
The building itself is a stunning sight to behold, with its elaborate spires, grand arches, and intricate stonework.
Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, ornate chandeliers, and intricately decorated walls and ceilings.
There are also regular organ recitals and other musical events held in the cathedral, making it an even more enjoyable experience.
For those interested in history, the Truro Cathedral also has a fascinating collection of artifacts, including a 15th-century chalice and a 16th-century vestment.
No matter what your interests may be, a visit to Truro Cathedral is sure to be a memorable one.
Explore the Royal Cornwall Museum
Exploring the Royal Cornwall Museum yields a wealth of knowledge, from historical relics to local artifacts, so come discover the stories of the past!
This museum, established in 1818, is the oldest and largest museum in Cornwall. It’s home to an array of fascinating artifacts and artwork, ranging from bronze age jewelry to contemporary pieces. You can find a variety of displays, including local and national history, geology, prehistoric artifacts, and fine art.
There are also special exhibitions throughout the year, such as the popular ‘Cornish Animals’ exhibit. As you explore the museum, you’ll learn about the history of Cornwall and its people, as well as understand the culture and customs. It’s an amazing way to get to know this beautiful part of the world.
In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and activities, such as lectures, workshops, and family activities. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun way to spend the day, the Royal Cornwall Museum is definitely worth a visit.
Take a Stroll Through Lemon Quay
Take a stroll through Lemon Quay and experience the vibrant sights and sounds of Truro, England! This bustling square is located right in the heart of Truro and is full of life.
During the day, you’ll find vendors selling local wares, musicians playing live music, and a variety of food stalls that all offer local cuisine. The area is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family back home.
In the evening, Lemon Quay transforms into a lively hangout spot, with a variety of bars and pubs serving up some of the best beer and cocktails in town. The atmosphere is always inviting and friendly, making it the perfect spot to meet up with friends after a busy day.
With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals, Lemon Quay is a must-visit spot while in Truro.
Marvel at the Truro City Hall
Admire the grandeur of Truro City Hall, a stunning architectural feat that stands proudly in the heart of the city.
Built in the mid-19th century, this building is a breathtaking example of the Gothic Revival style.
Its walls and buttresses are made of granite, with the latter decorated with gargoyles and other architectural elements.
Inside, the grand auditorium and council chambers are impressive works of art.
These rooms feature ornate wooden panelling, intricate stained glass windows, and ornamental stonework.
Don’t forget to take a look at the bell tower, which is home to a set of chimes that ring out over the city each day.
It’s the perfect place to admire the beauty of Truro’s history and architecture.
Visit the National Trust’s Trerice House
Step back in time and explore the stunning Trerice House, a 16th-century manor house that’s been lovingly preserved by the National Trust.
Situated on the outskirts of Newlyn, Cornwall, the manor house is a stunning example of a Tudor manor house with its original walled gardens, ancient terraces, and picturesque courtyard.
This National Trust property is a delight for history buffs and those looking to explore a piece of the past.
The manor house is a great place to explore with the family, with many activities such as guided tours of the house, a children’s trail that will keep the kids entertained, and the traditional walled garden, where you can find a wide variety of plants and flowers.
There are also a variety of events taking place throughout the year, such as historic reenactments, plays, and outdoor theatre performances.
Trerice House is a great place to spend a day, and be sure to bring a camera so you can capture the beauty of this National Trust property.
Climb the Castle An Dinas
Experience the ancient history of Cornwall and climb Castle An Dinas, a prehistoric Iron Age hill fort situated near Truro in England. Dating back to the Iron Age, the hill fort is a great chance to explore and discover the history of Cornwall.
Climb the hill and enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding area. The Iron Age hill fort is a great way to explore the area and gain an understanding of the history of Cornwall.
The hill fort is said to be one of the most powerful Iron Age hillforts in Cornwall. It was a stronghold for the people of the area during the Iron Age, and it stands on the highest point of St. Michael’s Mount in Cornwall.
The castle is surrounded by an impressive stone wall that stands 6 feet high and is said to have been built by the ancient people of the area. The views of the surrounding countryside are spectacular from the top of Castle An Dinas.
Make sure to bring a camera and take some amazing photos.
Soak Up the Sun on Porthmeor Beach
Relax and soak up the sun on Porthmeor Beach, a stunning beach located in St Ives, Cornwall. Porthmeor Beach provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the iconic St Ives Bay.
It’s a great place to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or just to relax and take a break from exploring the surrounding area. Despite being a popular spot for tourists, the beach is still relatively quiet and peaceful, making it the perfect place to unwind and get away from it all.
The beach is also a great spot for surfers, with consistently strong waves that make it one of the best surfing locations in the area. If you don’t have your own board, no worries – rental shops are located nearby.
Take a break from the waves and explore the stunning coastal path, which will take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the area. Whether you’re looking to take a dip, catch some waves, or just soak up the sun, Porthmeor Beach is the perfect destination.
Take a Boat Trip to the Isles of Scilly
Set sail on an adventure to the Isles of Scilly, a cluster of islands off the coast of Truro, England. With its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Isles of Scilly is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
From the mainland, a boat trip to the Isles of Scilly takes around two and a half hours, so you can make a whole day out of it. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty to explore. The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and seals.
You can also visit some of the islands’ historic sites, such as the fourteenth-century castle of King Henry VIII and the ruins of the Benedictine abbey on Tresco. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun. With its beautiful beaches, the Isles of Scilly is the perfect place for swimming, sailing, and snorkeling.
No matter what you’re looking for, the Isles of Scilly is sure to provide a memorable vacation experience.
Enjoy the Views from St Michael’s Mount
Perched atop a rocky islet, St Michael’s Mount is a spectacular sight to behold. The castle and chapel, dating back to the 12th century, are surrounded by terraced gardens and trails, offering breathtaking views of the harbour and beach below. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic stroll, with plenty of benches to rest and take in the scenery.
There’s also a fascinating history to explore – the castle was once owned by the St Aubyn family, who still live in the residence today. Visitors can explore the castle and learn more about its fascinating past. Tours are available for those who want to get up close and personal with the architecture.
A trip to St Michael’s Mount wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the island’s famous cafe, which serves delicious treats and refreshments. The perfect way to end a day of sightseeing!
Explore Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm
Take a break from sightseeing and head to Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm for a unique experience. Located in the beautiful Cornish countryside, Healey’s is a family-run business that has produced traditional Cornish ciders since 1983.
They offer plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, from cider tasting and guided tours around the farm’s cider-making facility, to tractor rides and a children’s play area.
Healey’s is also home to an on-site restaurant that serves up delicious farm-to-table fare, made with the freshest ingredients.
Visitors can also explore the farm’s cider-making process, learning about the different types of apples used to make the cider and the traditional methods used to craft it.
With plenty of activities for the whole family, Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm is the perfect place to spend a day and gain an appreciation for the area’s history and culture.
Spend an Evening at the Hall for Cornwall
Spend an evening at the Hall for Cornwall and experience the best of Truro’s culture! Located in the heart of England, this beautiful venue provides a variety of entertainment for all ages.
From live music and theatre performances to comedy nights and more, the Hall for Cornwall is sure to satisfy everyone’s tastes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing night of jazz, a laugh-filled evening of stand-up comedy, or a thrilling night of drama, the Hall for Cornwall has it all.
The venue also features a wide range of food and drinks, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a night in Truro. With its high-quality entertainment and inviting atmosphere, the Hall for Cornwall is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what Truro has to offer.
Sample Local Cuisine at the Lemon Street Market
Sample the best of local cuisine at the bustling Lemon Street Market, where you can savor the flavors of Truro’s culinary offerings.
On Saturdays, the market comes alive with vendors selling fresh produce, homemade jams and jellies, and other local specialities, such as Cornish pasties, saffron buns, and clotted cream.
Stroll around and sample a wide variety of dishes, from bangers and mash to fish and chips, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the market.
If you’re looking to sit down and enjoy a meal, the Lemon Street Market also has several cafes and restaurants offering traditional Cornish fare, as well as a variety of international cuisines.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the cafes, or grab a quick snack to go as you explore the rest of Truro.
With its wide selection of culinary offerings, the Lemon Street Market is the perfect place to sample the best of Truro’s local cuisine.
Relax at the Boating Lake in Victoria Gardens
After trying some of the delicious local fare at the Lemon Street Market, it’s time to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Boating Lake in Victoria Gardens.
Located in the heart of Truro, this beautiful lake offers visitors the perfect opportunity to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a peaceful paddle in a boat, or just sit and admire the scenery.
The Boating Lake is surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and plenty of benches and picnic tables for those wanting to take a break.
The lake is a great place to spot some of the local wildlife, with plenty of ducks, geese, and swans gliding across the surface. Visitors can even rent a boat to get a closer look at the wildlife and explore more of the lake’s hidden alcoves.
The lake also makes a great spot for a romantic picnic, with plenty of peaceful spots to enjoy the view.
This tranquil escape is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Truro.
Take a Guided Walk Around Truro
Discover Truro’s hidden gems and uncover its fascinating history on a guided walk around the city. Led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide, this unique tour will give you an insider’s look at the city.
You’ll see the historical sites, hear stories of the area’s past, and get an understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the city. You’ll also get a chance to explore the cobbled streets and admire the stunning architecture, including the iconic Truro Cathedral.
The tour will take you to some of Truro’s best-kept secrets and off-the-beaten-track spots, giving you a real sense of the city. Along the way, you’ll be able to ask your guide questions and get a deeper understanding of the city’s history.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a guided walk around Truro is a great way to experience the city.
Visit the King Edward Mine Museum
Experience the past and learn about the history of mining in Cornwall at the King Edward Mine Museum. Nestled in the picturesque village of Troon, near Truro, the museum is a great way to get an insight into the area’s rich mining heritage.
It was once the world’s leading producer of copper and tin and visitors will be able to explore the old mine workings, with its winding tunnels and historic engine houses, as well as the museum’s interactive exhibits, which include a reconstructed mine manager’s office, a replica mine shaft, and a working engine house.
The museum also has a miner’s shop, an old-fashioned smithy, and a fascinating display of artifacts and photographs. Visitors can take part in the mine tour, which takes them through the many levels of the mine, and learn about the different techniques used to extract the valuable ore.
They can also try their hand at gold panning or explore the nearby nature trails, which offer wonderful views of the local countryside. With its fascinating insight into Cornwall’s industrial past, the King Edward Mine Museum is a must-visit for any visitor to Truro.
Conclusion
I’ve had an amazing time exploring Truro.
I’m so glad I took the time to visit this beautiful city.
From the awe-inspiring Truro Cathedral to the King Edward Mine Museum, there’s something for everyone.
Whether it’s sampling local cuisine at the Lemon Street Market or taking a guided walk around Truro, you’ll find plenty to do.
I’m sure I’ll be back soon, and I’m ready to explore Truro’s many hidden gems.
If you’re looking for a great day out, Truro is definitely worth a visit.