Truro is the British mainland’s southernmost city, set on the southern edge of Cornwall, just a 10-minute drive from the coast. The city has a rich history, dating back to Roman times. In the 12th century, it was a small market town and port, but it grew to become a major hub for trade and tin mining.
At the heart of the city is the gothic revival cathedral, known for its grand Father Willis organ and restored stained glass windows. They even have a choir who featured on Britain’s Got Talent in 2019. Truro is also home to the Cornwall Museum and Art Gallery, a popular attraction during the peak season. Here you can learn all about Cornwall’s mining and engineering heritage and explore their extensive mineral collection. The museum is also home to the Courtney Library, dedicated to researching and preserving Cornish life and culture, and an art gallery with a focus on Cornish artists.
Truro has a bustling city centre with a focus on independent stores, charming cafes, and locally-owned restaurants.
At the heart of the city, you’ll find the usual high street stores, but the city branches off into small, winding lanes such as Pydar Street where you’ll find crafty boutiques and more colourful shops to explore.
The River Truro runs through the city, and if you follow it to the outskirts of Truro, you’ll find plenty of beautiful nature trails. iWalkCornwall has lots of suggestions for trails to take, including strolls along the river.
The St Clement and Malpas route will take you on a walking trail alongside the River Truro, with sights such as a medieval church to see along the way.
The city is host to a number of cultural festivals throughout the year, from the Cornwall Music Festival in March to the Truro Food Festival in September, with lots of live music and arts events inbetween.
Recently, a family-run fish and chip shop in the Threemilestone area of the city caught national attention by snagging 3rd place in the UK’s National Fish and Chip Awards.
At a ceremony in London on February 26, organised by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), Kellaway’s Fish and Chips in Threemilestone, Truro, was awarded third place for Takeaway of the Year.
Kellaway’s proudly announced on Facebook: “Third in the country, wow! So proud of our team and everyone who has helped us get here! A massive thank you to you our wonderful customers who have supported us throughout this journey.”
Commenting on their win, the NFFF posted: “Well done to third place winner for Takeway of the Year Kellaway’s Fish and Chips!”
Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, has praised the rising standards in the industry, he said: “The bar for the National Fish and Chip Awards is set higher each year across the criteria the competitors are evaluated against, and our new titleholders have put everything into elevating their menus, sharpening their skills and developing their expertise.”