Truro
Tri-VeruOur Great Little City
Visitors will find our great little city filled with friendly pubs and funky restaurants as well as a great selection of shops, a museum and the iconic cathedral.
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Truro, Cornwall’s only city, is renowned for its striking Gothic Revival and Georgian architecture, charming cobbled streets, and a mix of independent boutiques alongside popular high street stores. Originally established in the fourteenth century as a port for trading tin, copper, slate, and grain, Truro is now celebrated as a cultural hub.
Despite its city status, Truro maintains a relaxed, town-like atmosphere, perfect for leisurely exploration. Within walking distance from the city centre are St Clements and Malpas, picturesque waterside villages where you can enjoy the tranquil scenery of the Tresillian River.
Home to one of the UK’s leading theatres, Truro hosts a variety of theatrical, musical, and cultural events throughout the year. Its central location also makes it an excellent base for exploring Cornwall's north and south coasts, providing easy access to the county's stunning beaches and countryside.
Did you know?
Truro derives its name from the Cornish phrase "Tri-veru," meaning "three rivers," a nod to the waterways that converge within the city. The Kenwyn and Allen Rivers flow beneath Truro and merge to form the Truro River, which eventually joins the River Fal further downstream.
Things to do in Truro
Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing shopping trip, exploring local history, or admiring stunning architecture, Cornwall’s capital, Truro, has something for all ages.
Taking centre stage is Truro Cathedral which stands tall in the heart of the city. Built in the Gothic Revival style between 1880 and 1910 it is one of only three UK cathedrals with three spires. Free guided tours offer insight into its fascinating history and intricate design.
A short walk away is the Royal Cornwall Museum where you can discover Cornish heritage and its global connections. With free entry for children, the museum’s highlights include an Egyptian mummy, exhibits on local minerals, and displays about the RNLI.
For live entertainment, the recently renovated Hall for Cornwall is a must-visit. This state-of-the-art venue hosts everything from West End shows and musical concerts to comedy performances.
Near the theatre is Lemon Street Market, where you’ll find shops, cafés and an art gallery, all under one roof. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the city’s outdoor farmer’s market offers a fantastic selection of locally sourced produce and handmade crafts – perfect for picking up souvenirs.
If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, head to Victoria Gardens where you'll find exotic trees, vibrant shrubs, and a tranquil atmosphere. The gardens also host summer bandstand performances, ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
Other attractions include the Cornwall Family History Society, where you can learn more about family connections to the area. Truro also has a variety of restaurants, across a wide range of cuisines.
Key events throughout the year include the food festival in September, and the spectacular Truro Christmas markets in November and December, making the city an interesting destination no matter the season.
Did you know?
Internationally acclaimed rock band Queen played their first gig in Truro on June 27, 1970. The performance took place at Truro City Hall, marking the band's debut before they rose to global fame. Queen's drummer, Roger Taylor, grew up in the city, where he played in local bands during his youth.
Further afield
Just a ten-minute drive from Truro city centre, Trelissick Gardens is a stunning estate perched on its own peninsula, offering sweeping views over the Fal Estuary. Nestled within the South Coast Central National Landscape (formerly AONB), this dog-friendly destination features winding garden paths, vibrant herbaceous borders, and a range of exotic plants.
A little further afield is Falmouth, renowned for its rich maritime heritage and charming town beaches. Falmouth is also a lively creative hub, home to one of the UK’s top arts universities, and hosts a range of festivals, galleries, and independent shops.
Alternatively, head to Cornwall’s rugged north coast, where you’ll discover golden sandy beaches and a selection of picturesque coastal towns. Perranporth, Newquay, and St Agnes are popular spots for surfing, beachgoers, and walkers, offering dramatic coastal scenery, watersports, and family-friendly attractions.
Getting Around
Truro is conveniently accessible by road via the A30, making it easy to reach by car. Truro train station is located on the mainline to London Paddington, with direct journeys taking approximately five hours. Local rail services also connect to nearby Falmouth and run twice an hour. The central bus station, located next to Lemon Quay, offers transport to various destinations throughout the county. For more information on timetables and discounted bus fares visit Transport for Cornwall.
Accommodation in and around Truro
Cusgarne Manor
A boutique B&B in the heart of rural Cornwall, this beautiful and historic Grade II* Listed farmhouse has recently undergone complete restoration and is now open to the public for the first time.
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The Alverton
Truro’s only 4 Star Hotel in the heart of the city. Set amongst emerald lawns and ancient trees, The Alverton has resided on its hillside setting since the nineteenth century, and is a converted conve...
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The Plume of Feathers, Mitchell
The Plume of Feathers is a 16th century coaching Inn set in the leafy village of Mitchell, near Newquay and Truro, just off the A30.
See accommodationThings to do in and around Truro
Callestick Farm Ice Cream Parlour
Callestick Ice Cream Parlour is located in the heart of Cornwall - just a stones throw away from the North Cornish coast, nestled in a valley farmed by the Parker family for over 70 years!
TruroRead more
National Trust Trelissick Garden
A welcoming garden set in an estate with stunning maritime views and woodland walks.
TruroRead more
Truro Farmers Market
Established in 1999, Truro Farmers Market is a thriving twice-weekly market showcasing local food & drink, art & craft, in the heart of Cornwall's capital city.
TruroRead more
Language Tree - International Summer School
Language Tree is Cornwall’s only British Council accredited language school. We specialise in immersive language holidays that provide a perfect combination of Language, Culture & Adventure.
Truro, FalmouthRead more
Mega Slip and Slide Cornwall
Get your adrenaline pumping as you slide down our jaw-dropping 120 meter (393 ft) long Slip and Slide, launching from a thrilling 3.5 meter (11.5 ft) high tower.
TruroRead morePlan your trip
Everything you need to know to plan your trip to St Ives
Follow the M5 to Exeter, and then join the A30 down into Cornwall. After crossing Bodmin Moor and passing signs to Newquay you will see signs to Truro on your left.
Truro has a number of large long stay car parks to choose from, including Garras wharf & Moorfield.
National Express serves Cornwall from destinations throughout the UK. The coach drop off point in Truro is on Lemon Quay which is located in the centre of town, where local connections can be found.
From Truro bus services reach out across Cornwall.
Great Western Railways operate high speed services from London Paddington, South and Wales to Cornwall, including sleeper services from London Paddington. Cross Country Trains (Arriva Trains) operate services into Cornwall from the Midlands, the North and Scotland.
Truro is located on the mainline and from here you can take the branchline to Falmouth or continue down through Cornwall to Penzance and St Ives.
FAQs
View allYes, Truro is Cornwall's only city. It has a population of around 21,000 people and is famous for it's gothic architecture and paved streets. A pleasant place to spend the day shopping or visiting the Royal Cornwall Museum. In the evening there are plenty of bars and restaurants, a cinema and the Hall for Cornwall theatre.
Of course! The city is famous for its ancient, cobbled and narrow streets with a range of stunning architecture featuring Gothic and Georgian styles. Central to the city centre is the Victorian Cathedral whilst all around it are a selection of independent shops, cafe's and restaurants.
With a recently refurbished theatre, cinema and loads of lovely pubs, Truro is a great place to spend a night or two, with the added bonus that it's no distance to drive to a beach during the day, either of the north or south coast.
Often, and quite literally, bypassed, mid Cornwall is overlooked by visitors who are understandably seeking coastal charms. Next time, however, pull over, stop for a while and allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised by the pastoral beauty of this underrated area… There's still plenty of pretty villages, lots of heritage, tucked away attractions and Cornwall's only city, Truro.
Admission to the iconic Cathedral, situated in the heart of Truro is free. However, a donation towards the building upkeep is always welcomed. Current opening times are 10.00 - 17.00 every day (Mon-Sat) and 11.30 - 16.00 (Sun). Visiting times can be subject to change.
Yes, it's called The Plaza and is an independently owned cinema situated on Lemon Street. Built in 1936 in an art deco style, it now has five screens.
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