Gay Holidays in Cornwall
Gay Holidays in Cornwall
Cornwall is widely thought of as something of a backwater, So you would be forgiven for having concerns about the reception a member of the LGBTQ+ community might receive if they choose to holiday there. Rest assured, it is no different than most areas, and overall, the welcome is warm and friendly. There are small patches of negativity, but sadly these are found all over the UK. Let’s have a closer look at gay holidays in Cornwall and see what they have to offer.
Cornwall Pride
An annual event has been taking place in the county to celebrate Pride. It took place over three days because, like most things, Covid prevented the 2020 gathering from taking place. However, because it was such a roaring success, they may use a three-day format in future. If you want to time your holiday to participate in the Pride event, you will need to book for the Bank Holiday weekend in August. Like most large Cornish events, Pride takes place in Newquay, the surfing mecca and hub of entertainment.
Accommodation Options
Most hotels and rental properties offer a friendly welcome to all guests. Still, if it makes you feel more comfortable, there are plenty who specifically advertise their openness to accommodate members of the LGBTQ+ community. Of course, there are advantages to staying in a hotel; for example, your meals are prepared and served onsite, and your room can be cleaned while you are off exploring. But others prefer the privacy of a holiday cottage, choosing instead to eat out in the local town or bring food in and cater for themselves.
Queer Kernow
A group worth connecting with if you want to learn more about the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Cornwall is Queer Kernow. The group has highlighted several historical figures who were part of the community, including author Daphne Du Maurier, hailed from Fowey. Marjorie Moss lived a non-binary life, styling herself as Marlow and living a ‘masculine’ identity at the turn of the century and died in 1958 having spent her life with a female partner. They have stories dating back to 1284 featuring the 1st Earl of Cornwall, demonstrating that the area’s history is more than just fishing, pirates and stunning views.
Plenty of Attractions
Cornwall is home to many famous attractions, and it can take quite a long time to see them all as the area is sprawling and rural. Lands’ End has become very touristy and is quite expensive but something many people want to say they have done. The Eden Project is fascinating and is set up well to be fully inclusive and accessible, with feedback suggesting that community members were very welcome and safe there. Newquay has a delightful zoo and is a great place to spend a day. One of the biggest pulls to the area are the beaches and surf, with Newquay and Perranporth being world-renowned sites. If you prefer a quieter escape, plenty of small towns and villages are ripe for exploring.
