At RCHT we recognise that most of you will have a long commute and be spending considerable time away from family and friends this year. We hear from previous trainees that the educational benefits of a placement at Truro outweigh the negatives, but to make this year most worthwhile, we would encourage you to make the most of your time - (weather permitting!) the area is incredibly beautiful and the opportunities for outdoor enjoyment immense.
To help you make the most of your time here, and to try and encourage you to consider Truro as a potential home in the future we have compiled a list of our favourite places, and would encourage you to make the most of having accommodation here to spend some time locally at the weekends, and get out and see the area during the evenings before the winter draws in. You will notice that most of the recommendations are outside of Truro which is not renowned for its sights or nightlife.
Weather - The great thing about having coast on three sides is that the sun (almost) always shines somewhere in Cornwall - if it is cloudy or misty on the North coast, the weather can be drastically different just a few miles away on the opposite coast.
Consult Rhys Llewelyn, Rosie Gray and Ross Kruger for more detailed surf advice.
East of county – a trip to Eden (use your Sanctuary address for locals’ discount), or Heligan Gardens is possibly better for those with children. Visit Charleston Harbour at the weekend for pop-up restaurants and bars – this is Ben Rock’s turf and he will recommend good swimming spots. The Roseland – ‘Gods’ own country’ – Tom Sulkin knows this area well. Take the Kind Harry Ferry over, or drive round from Truro. Lunch at the Hidden Hut during a sunny day at Porthcurnick Beach is hard to beat, or head round to St Mawes where there are several great places to eat. Take the ferry over to Place and walk around St Anthony’s Head or swim to the pontoon and enjoy the beach swing at the end of Summer Beach with a bbq.
West of county – Mousehole is the smaller (marginally less touristed) sister of St. Ives but has the same vibe. St Ives is not to be missed on a sunny day but avoid peak season and catch the train from St Erth rather than park in town. Avoid the crowds by wandering around ‘the Island’ and Porthgwidden Beach. Porthcurno is the home to reputably the best beach in the county and the famous Minack Theatre built into the cliffs. Walk over to Porthgwarra and visit Porth Chapel beach on the way.
South – Cadgwith, Kynance, Porthleven - A long way down but the Lizard is worth the travel. Get to beautiful Kynance Cove early to avoid the tourists (check the tides first!), then visit Cadgwith Cove for crab sandwiches straight off the boats (best in June when the flowers are out). Catch sea shanties in the pub on a Friday evening. Visit Gillan Cove for an off-the-beaten track feeling before having dinner at Flora at Trelowarren, or Kota Kai in Porthleven. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary at Gweek is close by and worth a visit in the Spring to see rescued pups. Cadgwith Cove
Isles of Scillies – Paradise on Earth, but accordingly £££. Base yourself on St Mary’s or camp on Bryher, St Martins or St Agnes. Plays host to several sporting events each year, the medics vs Scilly cricket match in September, Otillo SwimRun and The Scillies Swim Challenge.
Especially important in the winter months when you can pop out straight after work.
Catherine O’Dwyer is the font of all knowledge for all things two-wheeled.
Please feel free to ask for local advice and let us know if you find any hidden gems we can add to the list.