Renowned for its picturesque beaches and incredible natural beauty, Cornwall is a treasure trove that holds another gem: its fresh, delicious, and affordable seafood. From its renowned crab to classic fish and chips, Cornwall is a haven for seafood enthusiasts. This article will guide you on the best ways to find affordable yet delicious seafood in this stunning English county.
Explore Local Fish Markets
When you think about fresh and affordable seafood, a local fish market should be your first port of call. Cornwall is home to several such markets, teeming with a wide variety of seafood straight from the sea.
These markets are not just places to buy seafood, they offer an experience unique to Cornwall. As a visitor, you will get to witness the hustle and bustle of the market, the loud calling of the merchants, and the eye-catching array of seafood on display.
Consider stopping by the popular Newlyn Fish Market, one of the largest in the UK, where you can be assured of finding a wide variety of seafood including the much-loved Cornish crab. Another good place to visit is the Looe Market, known for its commitment to sustainable fishing. Remember, buying from these markets means you’re getting the freshest catch at prices that are often less than what you’d pay at a restaurant.
Dine at Seafood Shacks and Huts
Cornwall’s seafood shacks and huts offer some of the freshest and most affordable seafood in the region. These small businesses operate close to the shore, often serving the day’s catch cooked in the simplest yet most delicious ways.
Porthminster Beach Café in St Ives is one such place that offers visitors a chance to dine on fresh seafood with an unbeatable view of the sea. Another well-known shack is The Fish House in Newquay, which has garnered rave reviews for its quality offerings.
What makes these shacks and huts special is the informality and the authenticity of the experience. You can enjoy your meal in the open air, often just a stone’s throw away from the water where your seafood was caught. It’s a close-to-nature dining experience that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
Look for Special Offers on Restaurant Websites
Restaurants often post special offers on their websites which can lead to great deals on seafood. Some establishments in Cornwall provide discounts during off-peak hours, while others have special set menus that offer a selection of seafood at a more affordable price.
Though London is well-known for its food scene, Cornwall’s restaurants hold their own, especially when it comes to seafood. Harbour Lights in Falmouth, for instance, has won awards for its seafood offerings, while The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow showcases the best of Cornish seafood in its menu.
Do keep an open mind and be willing to try different types of seafood. Some of the lesser-known or less popular types of fish can be just as delicious and often come at a lower price.
Attend Local Seafood Festivals
Cornwall is known for its many annual seafood festivals. These events not only celebrate the local catch but also offer attendees a chance to sample a variety of seafood at affordable prices.
The Newquay Fish Festival and the Falmouth Oyster Festival are two of the most famous seafood festivals in Cornwall. These events feature cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and most importantly, stalls offering a vast range of seafood dishes. It’s a fantastic way to explore the diversity of Cornish seafood without breaking the bank. Plus, attending these festivals supports local businesses and encourages sustainable fishing practices.
Opt for Takeaways
Finally, for those who prefer the comfort of private dining, takeaways are a fantastic option. Many seafood restaurants in Cornwall offer takeaway services, allowing you to enjoy top-quality seafood at a fraction of the dine-in price.
One popular choice is Rick Stein’s Fish, in Falmouth, where you can pick up everything from classic fish and chips to more exotic seafood dishes. Another favourite is The Catch in Looe, known for its generous portions and reasonable prices.
Remember, when it comes to enjoying seafood in Cornwall, it’s all about freshness. Whether you’re buying from a fish market, dining in a seafood shack, or ordering a takeaway, choose places that prioritise local and sustainably-caught produce. That way, you’ll not only be treating your taste buds but also supporting the local economy and the environment.
Plan a Seafood-Themed Trail
A perfect way to discover the best seafood in Cornwall is by planning a seafood-themed trail. This will allow you to explore different regions, each with its unique seafood offerings. Research online or visit websites of local tourism boards to get a feel for the best places to go.
Start in the westernmost part of the county at Newlyn, a major fishing port home to the bustling Newlyn Fish Market. Next, make your way to the charming fishing village of St Ives, where you can dine at the Porthminster Beach Cafe, known for its fresh mussels and scallops. Continue your journey to the vibrant town of Falmouth, a must-visit for any seafood lover. Here, you can taste award-winning fish and chips at Harbour Lights or enjoy a takeaway from Rick Stein’s Fish.
Heading north, don’t miss out on the seafood delights of Padstow. A highlight in this town is The Seafood Restaurant, an establishment that features the best of Cornish seafood in its menu. Finally, end your seafood trail in the quaint seaside town of Looe. The Catch, a popular takeaway spot, is a must-visit here.
This seafood-themed trail gives you a taste of the diverse seafood offerings in the county, from the classic fish and chips to the more exotic dishes like sea bass and oysters. Remember, the goal is not just to eat but also to explore and immerse yourself in Cornwall’s vibrant fishing industry.
Purchase Seafood from Local Fisherman
Often, the best seafood is the freshest seafood, and there’s no better way to guarantee freshness than buying directly from local fishermen. These hardworking individuals are part of the lifeblood of Cornwall’s fishing industry. By purchasing from them, you support local livelihoods and get access to incredibly fresh fish.
In many coastal towns in Cornwall, it’s common to see local fishermen selling their catch of the day directly to the public. Keep an eye out for these sales, as they can be a great opportunity to buy quality fish at a reasonable price. You might need to wake up early, as these sales often happen in the morning. But the reward of cooking and enjoying your fresh seafood is well worth the early start.
Your trip to Cornwall would not be complete without tasting the county’s signature dishes, from crab sandwiches to Cornish mussels. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood connoisseur or a curious foodie, Cornwall offers something for everyone.
Undoubtedly, finding cheap but delicious seafood in Cornwall requires a bit of adventure and research. From exploring local fish markets to dining at seaside shacks, attending seafood festivals or planning a seafood-themed trail, the options are numerous and exciting. Remember, the key to a good seafood experience is freshness and locality. Always choose places that prioritize local and sustainable seafood, as this ensures you’re getting the best product while also supporting the fishing industry of Cornwall.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations, visit websites to find special deals or copy the link to this seafood guide for future reference. In your quest for the best seafood, you will not only satisfy your taste buds but also contribute to the local economy and promote sustainable practices. So, the next time you find yourself in this beautiful part of the United Kingdom, make sure to dive into Cornwall’s seafood scene. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
