Britain's 'Surf City' might sound like a backhanded compliment, but the UK's take on beach culture is as quaint and sleepy as the waves hitting the shores of Cornwall, making Newquay the perfect place for a weekend break.

The resort has been a major centre of tourism since the beginning of the 20th Century, the 22,000-strong permanent population swelling to more than 100,000 during the summer months. Excellent holiday accommodation, mild weather and gorgeous beaches have secured Newquay's place in the pantheon of Great British destinations.

Must See Attractions


Lappa Valley Steam Railway

First opened back in 1849 as a goods line, the railway that begins in East Wheal Rose and terminates here later became part of the Great Western Railway's network of train links. It's a delightful ride on a narrow-gauge steam train, whisking travellers through some of the most stunning Cornish landscape there is. For trainspotting geeks and amateur Steam Age historians, this is a must-do activity.

Blue Reef Aquarium

With a huge underwater walkway as the centrepiece, the Blue Reef Aquarium gives tourists the chance to get up close and personal with some of the most spectacular marine specimens on earth.

Nearby hotels: Hotel California - Carnmarth Hotel

Newquay Zoo

Back on dry land and the wildlife is no less captivating. Newquay Zoo places a particular emphasis on the conservation of rare species, and at the same time affords patrons the chance to see wildlife from across the globe. Set in a sub-tropical landscape, the award-winning zoo is home to an open rainforest exhibit and some truly awe-inspiring oriental gardens.

Nearby hotels: Porth Veor Manor Villas and Apartments - Porth Veor Manor Hotel

Tunnels Through Time

This museum explores the myths and legends of Great Britain, taking visitors on a unique journey through the ages, from Arthurian lore to the rather more factually documented tales of smugglers and tin miners during the 18th Century.

Surf Beaches

Many visitors to Newquay don't retreat more than a half mile from the shoreline. One look at the many fine beaches close by will tell you why. There's Fistral Beach, the flagship destination for members of the global surf community, and local favourite Polly Joke. But if you are coming on a family break and wish to avoid stoner-garnished fibreglass boards being spat at you by Mother Nature, don't despair – the small-ish Harbour Beach is very popular with families, and the bigger Towan Beach doesn't even allow surfing except at low tide.

Nearby hotel: Headland Hotel & Spa

Where to eat


The Stable

Overlooking Fistral Beach, The Stable dishes up local ingredients put to ingenious use. And unlike many local rivals, the top notch cuisine doesn't come with a pricetag that'll cause you to wipe out. Pizzas and pies are washed down with local cider and digested with the aid of some mesmerising sea views. For great, inexpensive, locally-sourced food, The Stable is where it's at.

Nearby hotel: Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa

The Beached Lamb

One of Newquay's coolest gastronomic spots, the Beached Lamb Café is a proper curio. With one eye on vegans and the other on cocktail hour, their approach is a superb double whammy of comfort and health. If bean burgers on bean bags is your thing, or you won't eat lamb but you're not impartial to sheep memorabilia, herd your crew down to the BLC for a post-wave taste explosion.

Nightlife


Belushi's Bar

Belushi's Bar is the default setting for the local crowd. If getting a taste of the real Newquay is something you want to do, the outdoor terrace at Belushi's is your place. The food is decent, but you are more likely to come for the music. A perfectly groovy dive.

Sailors

Just up the road from Belushi's, Sailors is both pub and nightclub. During the day, there are few better spots in Newquay from which to watch life roll by on the beach front, but at night, Sailors really comes alive, offering the 1400 capacity crowd some of the best DJs and bands around. If you want to see surfers when they're out of their natural habitat, this is the venue for you.

After a long day on the beach and late night be sure to retire to a hotel near Newquay town centre so that you can get up bright and early to do it all again!