The 10 best Cornish legends to visit

Cornwall is steeped in history and mythology, with many fascinating legends and tales passed down through the generations.

From giants to mermaids, here are the top 10 Cornish legends:

1. The Legend of King Arthur

One of the most famous legends associated with Cornwall is the story of King Arthur, who was said to have been born at Tintagel Castle. According to the legend, Arthur was a noble king who fought against invading forces to defend his people.

2. The Mermaid of Zennor

The Mermaid of Zennor is a beautiful legend that tells the story of a mermaid who fell in love with a local man. The story goes that the man followed the mermaid into the sea, never to be seen again.

3. The Legend of Bolster

Bolster was a giant who lived on the north coast of Cornwall. He fell in love with a local woman, but when he discovered she was planning to kill him, he lay down on the cliffs and allowed her to strike the fatal blow.

4. The Legend of Jan Tregeagle

Jan Tregeagle was a real person who lived in the 17th century, but his legend has taken on a life of its own. The story goes that he sold his soul to the devil, and was condemned to spend eternity performing impossible tasks.

5. The Beast of Bodmin Moor

The Beast of Bodmin Moor is a legendary creature said to roam the moors of Cornwall. Some believe it to be a big cat, while others think it may be a supernatural entity.

6. The Legend of Saint Piran

Saint Piran is the patron saint of Cornwall, and his legend tells the story of how he discovered tin while digging in the sand on the beach. This discovery led to the development of Cornwall's mining industry.

7. The Legend of the Cornish Piskies

Piskies are mischievous fairy-like creatures that are said to inhabit the countryside in Cornwall. They are known for playing pranks on humans and leading them astray.

8. The Legend of the Hurlers

The Hurlers are a group of standing stones on Bodmin Moor that are said to be the remains of men who were turned to stone for playing hurling on the Sabbath.

9. The Legend of John Carter and the Giants

John Carter was a legendary giant who is said to have roamed the countryside in Cornwall. The story goes that he defeated a group of other giants in a game of hurling.

10. The Legend of the Cornish Knockers

The Cornish Knockers are a group of mythical creatures that are said to inhabit the mines of Cornwall. They are believed to be spirits that help miners find valuable minerals.