5 Things You Must Eat and Drink in Cornwall, England

Cornwall, England, is not only famous for its breathtaking coastlines and charming fishing villages but also for its rich culinary heritage. From savoury classics to sweet indulgences, the Cornish food scene offers flavours you cannot miss. Whether you’re a traveller, foodie, or culture lover, Cornwall’s traditional dishes will make your visit unforgettable.

Introduction

When you think of Cornwall, images of golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming harbours may come to mind. But Cornwall is equally celebrated for its unique food and drink culture. Steeped in history and tradition, Cornish cuisine reflects the region’s coastal abundance and farming roots.

From iconic pastries to local dairy delights, Cornwall serves up dishes that are both hearty and heartwarming. Pair these with world-class beverages brewed or distilled right in Cornwall, and you have a food experience unlike anywhere else in England. Here are the five must-try foods and drinks in Cornwall that should top your list.

1. Cornish Pasty – The Iconic Staple

The Cornish pasty is more than just food; it’s a cultural treasure that represents Cornwall’s history. Traditionally filled with beef, potato, swede, and onion, it was once the practical lunch of Cornish tin miners. Today, it is celebrated worldwide, but the authentic flavour can only be experienced in Cornwall itself.

Why it’s a must-try:

• Authentic status: Only pasties made in Cornwall have PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status, meaning you’re eating the original version of this iconic dish.
• Rich history: The pasty was designed as a practical meal for miners, with the thick crust acting as a handle to keep food clean.
• Endless variety: Beyond the traditional recipe, you can also try vegetarian, cheese, or spiced versions that reflect modern tastes.
• Best places to find it: Bakeries in St Ives, Padstow, and Penzance are famous for piping-hot, golden pasties fresh out of the oven.

2. Cornish Cream Tea – A Sweet Delight

The Cornish cream tea is the ultimate afternoon indulgence. A classic combination of warm scones, fruity strawberry jam, thick clotted cream, and a pot of tea, it’s a ritual as much as it is a meal. In Cornwall, tradition dictates that the jam always goes first, followed by cream.

Why it’s a must-try:

• Cornish clotted cream: Made by slowly heating cream until a golden crust forms, this rich dairy product is what makes Cornish cream tea unique.
• Cultural ritual: The jam-first method is a point of pride in Cornwall, sparking friendly rivalry with Devon’s cream-first approach.
• Perfect pairing: A cream tea is best enjoyed with a seaside or countryside view, making it as much about the experience as the flavour.
• Where to enjoy it: Tearooms in Truro, Padstow, or St Ives offer authentic cream teas using local scones and fresh jam.

3. Cornish Seafood – Fresh from the Coast

With its extensive coastline, Cornwall is a haven for seafood lovers. Fishing villages supply daily catches of lobster, crab, mussels, and sardines, ensuring that what you eat is often caught just hours before being served.

Why it’s a must-try:

• Unmatched freshness: Cornwall’s seafood goes straight from the ocean to your plate, offering flavours you won’t find inland.
• Variety of options: From simple crab sandwiches to elegant seafood platters, you can enjoy Cornwall’s seafood in both casual and fine dining settings.
• Food capital of Cornwall: Padstow is home to world-class seafood restaurants, but smaller fishing towns like Newlyn and Fowey offer equally authentic experiences.
• Sustainable traditions: Many Cornish fishermen follow age-old sustainable practices, ensuring the seafood remains abundant for generations to come.

4. Cornish Ice Cream – Dairy Perfection

Cornwall’s lush green fields and high-quality dairy produce make its ice cream one of the creamiest in the UK. Made with fresh milk and clotted cream, Cornish ice cream is rich, indulgent, and unlike anything else.

Why it’s a must-try:

• Unique texture: The addition of clotted cream gives Cornish ice cream its velvety smoothness and luxurious taste.
• Classic and creative flavours: While vanilla is timeless, local makers offer indulgent flavours like Cornish fudge, sea salt caramel, and strawberry ripple.
• Famous brands: Kelly’s of Cornwall and Roskilly’s are iconic, but you’ll find many family-run parlours selling fresh scoops near the coast.
• Perfect holiday treat: Nothing beats enjoying Cornish ice cream while walking along a beach or watching the sunset over the sea.

5. Cornish Ale and Cider – Traditional Drinks

To round off your food journey, Cornish ales and ciders are the perfect beverages. Cornwall’s brewing and cider-making traditions are deeply rooted in its farming culture, and local producers craft drinks that reflect the character of the land.

Why it’s a must-try:

• Heritage ales: St Austell Brewery produces Tribute Ale and Proper Job IPA, while Sharp’s Doom Bar is another Cornish classic enjoyed nationwide.
• Refreshing ciders: Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm is home to the popular Rattler cider, known for its crisp and fruity taste.
• Perfect pairings: A pint of ale pairs beautifully with a pasty, while cider complements seafood dishes and cheese platters.
• Local experiences: Brewery tours, cider farm visits, and traditional pubs give you a taste of Cornwall’s vibrant drinking culture.

FAQs

1. What is Cornwall most famous for in food?
Cornwall is most famous for the Cornish pasty and the Cornish cream tea with scones, jam, and clotted cream. These traditions reflect the region’s mining past and rich dairy heritage. Additionally, Cornwall’s fresh seafood, ice cream, ales, and cider all contribute to its celebrated culinary reputation.

2. Where can I find the best Cornish pasty?
Look for family-run bakeries and pasty shops across Cornwall — St Ives, Penzance, Padstow, and Truro have excellent options. For guaranteed authenticity, choose pasties labelled with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI); this ensures the pasty was made in Cornwall using traditional ingredients and methods.

3. How is Cornish cream tea different from Devon cream tea?
The key difference is the order of toppings on a scone. In Cornwall, the jam is spread first, then the clotted cream on top. In Devon, cream goes first, followed by jam. Both are delicious; the Cornish method emphasises the cream’s richness sitting atop the jam.

4. Are Cornish seafood restaurants expensive?
Cornish seafood options range from affordable crab sandwiches at local cafés to high-end seafood restaurants in towns like Padstow. You can enjoy fresh, excellent seafood on any budget by choosing smaller seaside stalls or mid-range family-run restaurants for great value and freshness.

5. What’s the best time to visit Cornwall for food lovers?
Late spring to early autumn (May–September) is ideal: local produce and seafood are at their best, many food festivals run during summer, and tearooms and producers operate at full capacity. Off-season visits still offer great food, but be sure to check opening times for smaller vendors.

Conclusion

Cornwall’s food scene isn’t just about eating — it’s about experiencing a heritage that has been shaped by its people, landscape, and history. Every dish tells a story, whether it’s the Cornish pasty’s mining roots, the ritual of cream tea, or the freshness of seafood straight from the coast.

From indulgent ice cream to refreshing ales and ciders, Cornwall’s culinary delights create memories as rich as the landscapes themselves. Exploring Cornwall through its food is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with this enchanting part of England.