Day Trip - Our Guide to Truro

Head inland to explore Cornwall’s only city - Truro.

OUR TOP TRURO ACTIVITIES

In bygone times, Truro once thrived as a port, and this prosperity can be seen today in the elegant town houses that line its streets. In the shadow of the Cathedral, a warren of backstreets are home to dozens of independent traders and foodie hot spots for splashing the cash. Spend a few hours weaving in and out of shops that sell all you need - from funky fashions and surf wear to locally made bread and Cornish cheeses.

Visit Lemon Street Market - home to some of Truro's most exciting and innovative small businesses. Here you can visit the Lander Gallery and Coffee Shop hosting Cornish art spanning four centuries, pick up some Cornish-grown organic flowers at Daisy Roots, and sample some artisan breads and pastries at Baker Tom.

Victoria Gardens, just two minutes walk along The Leats towards the railway viaduct, offers a haven of tranquillity with flowers, fountains and a traditional bandstand. Pack a picnic and while away an hour or two in the sunshine!

The Royal Cornwall Museum houses objects that reveal Cornwall’s history from prehistoric times through to its industrial triumphs, with an Egyptian mummy thrown in for good measure.

If you extend your day trip, the Plaza Cinema is a great spot to watch the latest films, or catch a theatre or musical show at the Hall for Cornwall.

Copying the great cathedral builders of the medieval age, Truro Cathedral's huge spires soar over the city skyline, and inside there are some of the finest examples of Victorian stained-glass in the UK.

HOW TO GET THERE

Truro is just a twenty minute drive by car and the same by train from Falmouth town. If you board the train, you'll conveniently stroll past Truro Cheese Shop en route to town.

Or for the ultimate relaxation, leap aboard ENTERPRISE BOATS for a river trip from Falmouth Harbour. This fleet sails regularly to the hub of Truro along the banks of the unspoilt Fal River, stopping at Malpas and Trelissick along the way. The trip takes about an hour, with options to disembark at other locations on route and pick up the boat later. Snacks, hot refreshments and toilets are available on board and there is also an informative commentary from the boat’s skipper. Four legged friends are welcome on leads!

FOODIE FEASTS

THE BAKING BIRD - If you have a sweet tooth then it's the only one place to head to. Tucked behind the Cathedral, this award-winning café is dedicated to all things cake and is full of large comfy sofas, huge pots of tea and 17 different flavours of cupcakes.

ARCHIE BROWNS - This health food shop has a fantastic café serving fresh and wholesome home made vegetarian food with plenty of organic and vegan options. Their quiches are legendary in Cornwall and their fresh salads and juices will cure any sniffles or hangover.

CHANTEK - A delicious fusion of Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine, Chantek promises a lively atmosphere and with its open kitchen you can watch the chefs prepare dishes in front of you. Opt for the Volcano Chicken for a little bit of theatre - it will arrive sizzling, steaming and flambéed with garlic and a splash of cognac.

HUB BOX - The original Hub Box was in a converted 30 foot shipping container with seating for just 20 hungry burger lovers and proved so popular they soon had to find a permanent location. Head here for the best burgers, pulled pork and hot dogs this side of the pond and all using Cornish reared free-range meat.

HOOKED - Sister of Hooked on the Rocks, this open plan restaurant is energetic and quirky. Presenting classic dishes with a modern twist, from curries and steak to tapas, lobster and crab from their fresh tank.

THANKS TO OUR FRIENDS AT VISIT CORNWALL FOR THE IMAGES AND THEIR TOP TIPS!