Castles, Canals and Witches in Cornwall England

This Cornwall tour offers an intriguing mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and local legends, all experienced from the comfort of a vintage taxi. Perfectly suited for those wanting an authentic, personalized exploration of Cornwall’s most captivating sites, the tour is praised for its stunning scenery and rich storytelling.

What really sets this experience apart is Chris’s deep knowledge of Cornwall’s culture and his engaging storytelling style. Plus, the flexibility to spend as much time as you like at certain sites makes it feel more like a bespoke adventure.

One thing to consider is the price—at just over $546 for up to six people—it’s an investment, but given the tailored experience and all the included stops, many find it offers excellent value compared to multiple individual entries or guided bus tours.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love history, legends, and scenic drives, especially those keen to unlock Cornwall’s lesser-known secrets with a friendly local guide. If you’re after a leisurely, immersive day with plenty of authentic experiences, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private tour with exclusive use of a vintage taxi, meaning less crowding and more flexibility.
Rich Itinerary: Combines stunning coastal views, historic sites, and legendary spots like Tintagel and Boscastle.
Deep Local Knowledge: Tour guide Chris shares stories, legends, and insights that bring Cornwall’s history to life.
Flexible Duration: Ranges from 4 to 16 hours, so you can tailor the day to your interests and energy levels.
Inclusive Elements: Use of dowsing rods and email of photographs add interactive and memorable touches.
Value for Money: While the cost might seem high, the personalized service and extensive itinerary make it worthwhile for many travelers.

Exploring Cornwall in a Vintage Taxi: What to Expect

This tour offers a highly customizable, private adventure that covers a mix of natural beauty, historical ruins, and local legends. Starting from the charming coastline, you’ll leave your car behind and hop into Chris’s vintage taxi, which adds a nostalgic charm and a cozy, intimate vibe to the day.

The Itinerary, in Detail

Stop 1: Hawker’s Hut
We start with a gentle walk to Hawker’s Hut, the smallest property managed by the National Trust. Built from driftwood by Reverend R.S. Hawker, this tiny, poetic retreat offers a glimpse into Cornwall’s creative side. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot inspired by the stunning coast, perfect for a quick photo and a moment of reflection. Reviewers love the serenity here, with one noting that this stop is free and well worth the 40-minute visit.

Stop 2: Bude
Next, we head into Bude to explore a handful of fascinating sites: a medieval packhorse bridge, the canal, and a working sea lock. You’ll get a sense of Cornwall’s maritime history and how small towns played a role in trade and transportation. The walk around Bude’s harbor reveals a lively yet historic fishing port, with no entry fees contributing to its accessibility. Expect about an hour here, giving you time to soak in the seaside atmosphere.

Stop 3: Widemouth Bay
Here, we pause to admire the dramatic coastline and check out a Bronze Age burial mound. The geological highlight is the chevron folds—layered, bent sedimentary rocks that reveal the geological forces shaping Cornwall. The short 5-minute stop is perfect for a quick look, but the scenery will stick with you long after.

Stop 4: Boscastle Harbour
This small fishing village is both picturesque and resilient, having famously survived a devastating flood in 2004. We walk around the historic harbor, learning about its industry roots, then visit The Lookout on a Bronze Age castle site. The highlight is the castle itself, giving the town its name. A two-hour visit allows you to explore the area at leisure, with plenty of storytelling about local legends and historical events.

Stop 5: Minster Church
Considered by many as one of the prettiest churches in Cornwall, this spot combines beauty with mystery—here, you’ll learn about a local witch, her death, and what stories linger around her legend. It’s a short, 30-minute stop but packs an emotional punch, especially for those intrigued by folklore.

Stop 6: Tintagel
Famous for its links to King Arthur, Tintagel is a must-see. You can explore the ruins, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the stunning coastal views. The tour allows you as much time here as you like—two hours—making it a flexible highlight. Many find Tintagel enchanting, with its mix of myth and history.

Stop 7: Tintagel Castle
While entry isn’t included, many visitors choose to explore the castle, believed to be the legendary home of King Arthur. Walking among the ancient ruins with the sea crashing nearby makes for a memorable experience. The cost is around £14.80 if you opt to visit, adding a worthwhile historical layer to your day.

Stop 8: Davidstow Airfield & Cornwall At War Museum
History buffs will love this stop; the airfield was active in WWII and later turned into a racing circuit. The Cornwall at War Museum is nearby and highly recommended. Entry fees apply if you choose to visit, but the airfield itself is free. It’s a fascinating peek into Cornwall’s military past and post-war activities.

Stop 9: Roughtor
Climb Roughtor if you’re feeling adventurous—many do, to take in the expansive views and learn about local history, including the tragic story of Charlotte Dymond. The bronze age fields and roundhouses nearby enhance the sense of stepping back in time. It’s a brief, 30-minute stop but offers a real sense of Cornwall’s ancient landscape.

Stop 10: Stannon Moor
The final stop is at the mysterious Stannon stone circle, standing alone on the moor. Here, you can learn to dowse—an engaging, hands-on experience that connects you to Cornwall’s prehistoric past. It’s a quiet, contemplative ending to a day filled with stories and scenic wonders.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Traveling in a vintage taxi adds charm and comfort, allowing us to enjoy Cornwall’s winding roads and scenic vistas without the hassle of driving. The private nature of the tour means you can focus on your interests, spend more time at sites you love, and skip or linger at others.

Timing varies from 4 to 16 hours, so you can tailor the experience based on your energy and curiosity. The tour costs $546.11 for your group up to six, which many find reasonable considering the exclusive experience, personalized attention, and extensive itinerary.

The tour includes the use of dowsing rods and allows for email delivery of photos, creating additional memorable souvenirs. However, entry fees to certain sites like Tintagel Castle (£14.80) and The Cornwall At War Museum (£7) are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to explore these.

Authenticity, Value, and Overall Impression

Based on reviews, this tour is incredibly well-received, with one traveler calling it “Best tour hands down in Cornwall.” The guide’s deep understanding of local stories and his ability to weave legends into the landscape make the experience richer and more engaging. Guests appreciate the flexibility to explore at their own pace, which is rare in group tours.

The tour’s value hinges on its personalized touch and the chance to see Cornwall’s hidden corners, rather than crowded bus routes. The stops at sites like Hawker’s Hut and the Bronze Age burial mounds feel genuinely off the beaten path, offering a more authentic connection to Cornwall’s history and natural beauty.

Those who enjoy scenic drives, history, folklore, and a bit of adventure will find this tour a perfect blend of education and relaxation. It suits travelers looking for a private, flexible experience that combines stunning views with intriguing stories.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, folklore enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples wanting an intimate day exploring Cornwall’s lesser-known sites. If you’re after a relaxed pace, plenty of photo opportunities, and a touch of adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Travelers who appreciate authenticity and local insight will find Chris’s storytelling and the carefully curated stops especially rewarding. However, those seeking a quick, budget-friendly overview might find the cost a bit high for just a few hours.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, making it more personalized than standard group tours.

What is included in the price? You get private transportation, the use of dowsing rods, and email copies of photos taken during the tour.

Are there any entry fees? Entry fees for Tintagel Castle (£14.80) and The Cornwall At War Museum (£7) are not included, but the airfield itself is free to visit.

How flexible is the timing? The duration can range from 4 to 16 hours, giving you the chance to customize your experience based on your interests.

Do I need to bring anything? Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking at sites like Hawker’s Hut and Roughtor. Some reviewers mention bringing boots for muddy conditions.

Is there pickup included? Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour operates during convenient hours from 9:00AM to 3:00PM on weekdays.

In summary, this Cornwall tour stands out for its personalized approach, fascinating stops, and the storytelling talent of Chris. It’s a fantastic way to experience a side of Cornwall few travelers see—blending history, legends, and stunning scenery into a memorable, tailored adventure. Perfect for those who want to go beyond the typical tourist trail and truly connect with Cornwall’s soul.