Some of Cornwall's Myths and Legends

As with most counties of the UK, Cornwall has a huge amount of folklore to be discovered. Rather than simply being one of the best spots in the UK for beaches, warm weather and pasties (though there are actually some stories involving the latter), the county has a rich tapestry of myth and legend to discover. Whilst there, many tourists take the time to learn about them, and explore some of the landscapes they're based around. There are many attractions set up to entertain and educate people around these places.

The best-known legend is undoubtedly King Arthur, who, in some accounts, had his castle at the village of Tintagel. The remains of the castle there are an English heritage site, allowing visitors to look around the ruins, learn about the known history of the place, and view a short film about King Arthur's possible residency there. It's a real opportunity to get closer to an incredibly well-known legend.

Next is Zennor, a sea-side village near St Ives. The myth here isn't as land-based as Tintagel castle, instead involving a beautiful mermaid. Having heard a handsome, beautifully voiced, young man singing in church, she crept in, hiding her tail in a long dress, and watched him, day after day.

On one of these visits, their eyes met, and the young man instantly fell in love with her. She had to leave, knowing she would die if she stayed out of the water too long, but he followed her, never wanting to leave her. He walked into the waves until he was completely submerged, and was never seen again. It's said that when the wind is right, he can still be heard singing from the cave the mermaid called home.

Jack the Giant Killer is also set in Cornwall, and Cornwall does have a large amount of giant-based myths. Jack himself is said to have killed no less than seven giants using intelligence, wits, and magic items.

There is also the Cheesewring, a massive set of granite stones, balanced on top of each other to form a pillar on top of a hill. This was supposedly created through a rock throwing contest between a saint and the giant Ulther. With divine assistance, the saint won, easily throwing the massive stones, and having an angel help him with the last one. When the contest was lost, the giants had to abandon their sinful ways and adopt a Christian way of life, but some refused, vowing vengeance instead.

There are many more myths and legends in Cornwall to be discovered, and plenty of ways to discover them.

Written by Tom Sangers on behalf of The Olde House, offering a family holiday in Cornwall so you can enjoy self catering in Cornwall.