Cornwall, a picturesque region in the southwestern tip of England, is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. The region’s unique blend of natural beauty, artistic heritage, and warm hospitality makes it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Cornwall, you’re probably wondering when the best time to visit is. In this article, we’ll explore whether May is a good time to visit Cornwall, and what you can expect during this time of year.
Cornwall’s climate is generally mild and temperate, with temperatures ranging from around 9°C (48°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer. May is a transitional month, marking the end of spring and the beginning of summer. During this time, the weather can be quite unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating between warm and cool. However, May is also a great time to visit Cornwall if you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Weather in May
The weather in May is usually mild and sunny, with an average high temperature of 17°C (63°F) and an average low of 9°C (48°F). However, it’s not uncommon for the temperature to rise above 20°C (68°F) or drop below 5°C (41°F) on occasion. May is also a wet month, with an average of 12 rainy days throughout the month. However, the rain is often light and short-lived, and the sunshine can be intense when it does appear.
It’s worth noting that the weather in Cornwall can be quite different from the rest of the UK. The region’s unique geography, with its rugged coastline and rolling hills, creates a microclimate that can be quite distinct from the surrounding areas. This means that the weather in Cornwall can be quite unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for anything.
Temperature Ranges
| Month | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| May | 17 | 9 |
| June | 19 | 11 |
| July | 22 | 14 |
| August | 22 | 14 |
Rainfall and Sunshine
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) | Average Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|---|
| May | 80 | 220 |
| June | 60 | 250 |
| July | 50 | 280 |
| August | 60 | 250 |
Events and Festivals in May
Cornwall is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a wide range of events and festivals taking place throughout the year. May is a great time to experience some of the region’s most popular events, including:
- The Cornwall Spring Festival: A celebration of music, art, and culture that takes place in the town of St Ives.
- The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival: A lively festival featuring sea shanty singing, music, and dancing.
- The Padstow May Day: A traditional May Day celebration featuring music, dancing, and a Maypole ceremony.
- The St Ives Food and Drink Festival: A celebration of the region’s culinary delights, featuring local food, drink, and live music.
Other Events and Festivals
In addition to the events mentioned above, there are many other festivals and events taking place in Cornwall in May, including:
- The Cornwall Book Festival: A celebration of literature and writing that takes place in the town of Truro.
- The Falmouth Art Gallery Exhibition: A showcase of local art and artists that takes place in the town of Falmouth.
- The St Ives Art Festival: A celebration of art and creativity that takes place in the town of St Ives.
- The Cornwall Folk Festival: A celebration of folk music and culture that takes place in the town of Penzance.
Things to Do in May
May is a great time to explore Cornwall’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some things to do in May:
- Visit the Eden Project: A world-famous attraction featuring a stunning collection of plants and flowers from around the world.
- Explore the Lizard Peninsula: A beautiful and rugged coastline with stunning views and scenic walks.
- Visit the Tate St Ives: A world-class art gallery featuring a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Take a boat trip to the Isles of Scilly: A beautiful archipelago off the coast of Cornwall with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Visit the Minack Theatre: A unique outdoor theatre carved into the side of a cliff with stunning views of the sea.
Outdoor Activities
Cornwall is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities to suit all interests and abilities. Here are some outdoor activities to do in May:
- Surfing and bodyboarding: Take advantage of the consistent waves and warm water to catch some waves.
- Hiking and walking: Explore Cornwall’s stunning landscapes and scenic coastal paths.
- Cycling: Take a bike ride along Cornwall’s scenic coastal roads and enjoy the stunning views.
- Water sports: Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing in the calm waters of the Atlantic.
Accommodation in May
Cornwall has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some tips for finding the perfect place to stay in May: (See Also: When Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland Northern Lights? For Optimal Viewing)
Book in advance: May is a popular time to visit Cornwall, so it’s essential to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Choose a self-catering option: Self-catering apartments and cottages are a great way to experience the local culture and save money on food.
Look for deals and discounts: Keep an eye out for special offers and discounts on accommodation, especially during the off-season.
Consider a B&B or guesthouse: These small, family-run establishments offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere and often serve delicious breakfasts.
Book a hotel: If you prefer the convenience and amenities of a hotel, look for ones that offer stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re on a tight budget, here are some budget-friendly accommodation options to consider:
- Camping: Pitch a tent or park your campervan at one of Cornwall’s many campsites.
- Hostels: Stay in a dormitory or private room at a hostel, often with shared facilities and a lively atmosphere.
- Guesthouses: Look for budget-friendly guesthouses that offer simple but clean and comfortable rooms.
- Self-catering apartments: Rent a small apartment or flat and cook your own meals to save money.
Food and Drink in May
Cornwall is famous for its delicious food and drink, with a wide range of local specialties to try. Here are some tips for eating and drinking in May:
Try local seafood: Fresh seafood is a staple of Cornish cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local catches. (See Also: The Best Time of Day to Visit St Charles Bridge – Avoiding the Crowds)
Sample local cheeses: Cornwall is home to a number of delicious cheeses, including Cornish Yarg and Cornish Blue.
Enjoy a cream tea: A classic Cornish treat, cream tea typically consists of scones, clotted cream, and jam.
Visit a local market: Many towns and villages in Cornwall have weekly markets selling fresh produce, crafts, and local specialties.
Try a pasty: A traditional Cornish pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and potatoes, often served as a snack or light meal.
Local Specialties
Cornwall is famous for its local specialties, including:
- Cream teas: A classic Cornish treat consisting of scones, clotted cream, and jam.
- Pasties: A traditional Cornish pastry filled with meat, vegetables, and potatoes.
- Seafood: Fresh seafood is a staple of Cornish cuisine, with a wide range of local catches to try.
- Cheeses: Cornwall is home to a number of delicious cheeses, including Cornish Yarg and Cornish Blue.
- Ice cream: Cornwall is famous for its delicious ice cream, often made with local cream and flavorings.
Conclusion
Cornwall is a beautiful and vibrant region, with a wide range of things to see and do. May is a great time to visit, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and a wide range of events and festivals to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, or simply want to relax and unwind in a beautiful setting, Cornwall has something for everyone.
Recap
Here’s a quick recap of the key points discussed in this article: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Desert Safari – Experience The Magic)
- May is a great time to visit Cornwall, with mild weather and fewer crowds.
- The weather in May can be quite unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating between warm and cool.
- May is a great time to experience some of Cornwall’s most popular events and festivals.
- Cornwall has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.
- Cornwall is famous for its delicious food and drink, with a wide range of local specialties to try.
FAQs
Is May a good time to visit Cornwall?
What are the weather conditions like in May?
The weather in May is usually mild and sunny, with an average high temperature of 17°C (63°F) and an average low of 9°C (48°F). However, it’s not uncommon for the temperature to rise above 20°C (68°F) or drop below 5°C (41°F) on occasion.
Are there any events and festivals in May?
Yes, there are many events and festivals taking place in Cornwall in May, including the Cornwall Spring Festival, the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, and the Padstow May Day.
What are the accommodation options like in May?
Cornwall has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including self-catering apartments, B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels.
What are the local specialties in Cornwall?
Cornwall is famous for its delicious food and drink, with a wide range of local specialties to try, including cream teas, pasties, seafood, cheeses, and ice cream.
Can I visit the Eden Project in May?
Yes, the Eden Project is open year-round, including in May. It’s a great time to visit, with mild weather and fewer crowds.