Newquay 

Unlike the balmy and sheltered south coast of Cornwall, the north coast is rugged, rough and lashed by the Atlantic Ocean. This in turn makes Newquay Britain's top surf spot and the north coast's biggest resort.

Until the sixteenth century it was known as Towan Blystra but then a new quay was built to support the thriving pilchard fishing industry and the town acquired its later-day name. In 1876 a railway network was established, which put Newquay firmly on the tourist map and the town grew into a popular resort.

The area has some spectacular beaches; Fistral beach plays host to national and international surf competitions. Watergate Bay and Tolcarne are other surfer favourites.

• For those wanting something more restrained a visit to the quieter Crantock beach won't disappoint. It is accessible over the Gannel River and is in a glorious setting on dunes and grassland.