Soldiers, Miners and Fairies. (Private Tour of West Cornwall.)

Discovering West Cornwall: A Private Tour Worth Considering

Imagine having a friendly, knowledgeable guide show you the highlights of Cornwall at your own pace. That’s exactly what the “Soldiers, Miners, and Fairies” private tour offers — a personalized day exploring some of Cornwall’s most fascinating sights, from ancient monuments to seaside towns. This experience is designed for travelers who want a flexible, in-depth look at Cornwall’s history, culture, and stunning landscapes, without the fuss of a big group.

What we love about this tour is its tailored approach: you can decide what to see, and the guides, Glenys and Chris, bring a genuine passion for sharing Cornwall’s stories. The second highlight? The variety — from underground fogous to dramatic coastal views, there’s a little bit of everything. However, a possible consideration is that the full experience can extend up to 13 hours, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full, active day.

If you’re someone who enjoys history, scenic sights, and local stories, this private tour could be a great fit. It’s especially appealing if you value flexibility — being able to skip certain stops or add in your own must-see spots makes it stand out. And if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their land, you’ll likely feel right at home with Glenys and Chris.

Key Points

• Private experience: No sharing with strangers, tailored to your pace.
• Flexible itinerary: Add or skip stops based on your interests.
• Rich in sights: Ancient sites, breathtaking viewpoints, seaside towns, and mining heritage.
• Guides: Friendly, passionate, and eager to share stories, songs, and local knowledge.
• Duration: Can range from 5 to 13 hours, ideal for a full day of exploration.
• Cost: Around $642 for the entire group, offering good value for such a comprehensive, customized experience.

What to Expect from This Tour

An Intimate Introduction to Cornwall’s Heritage

This tour is perfect if you’re curious about Cornwall’s past and its landscape. Glenys and Chris create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you feel free to ask questions and take your time. You’ll get to see a diverse range of sites, making it a great choice for those who want a holistic glimpse of the region.

The Stops: A Deep Dive into Cornwall’s Charm

Gweek — Starting in this picturesque village, you’ll visit a local shop that offers interesting produce, baked goods, and teas. It’s a quick, mellow first stop to get a sense of local flavor and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.

Halliggye Fogou — The underground passageway here is one of Cornwall’s many mysteries. Man-made and possibly dating back to the Bronze Age, fogous are unique to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Chris will lend you a torch, and you can explore these subterranean chambers at your own pace. It’s a fascinating peek into ancient engineering, with no admission fee.

Lizard Peninsula — The first stop here is the Lizard Windmill, which dates back over 400 years. Standing in a nature reserve, it offers stunning views and a colorful story about The Windmill Gang. Then, you’ll wander through the charming Lizard Town, admiring the architecture and browsing local shops, before heading down to Lizard Point — Britain’s most southerly tip. It’s a place where seals might be playing in the water, making for some fantastic photo moments.

Marazion — From the high vantage point here, you’ll see St. Michael’s Mount looming across the water. The tour includes a viewing stop, but if you want to visit the island itself, that’s up to you. The causeway can be walked at low tide, or you can take a boat when the tide is in. Remember, entry to the castle is extra (£15).

Chysauster Ancient Village — This UNESCO World Heritage site is a highlight for history buffs. The village, dating back around 2300 years, features courtyard houses unique to Cornwall. The layout and preservation make it one of the oldest village streets in the UK, giving a real sense of ancient life. Entry fees are separate (£7.50).

Men-an-tol — A quick, enchanting stop along a farm track to see this famous “holed stone,” associated with healing and fairy magic. It’s a brief walk, but the folklore and the stone’s shape make it memorable.

Geevor Tin Mine — No trip to Cornwall is complete without exploring its mining heritage, and Geevor is one of the best places. You can walk through the ore processing plant, see underground workings, and chat with guides who have mining backgrounds. Entry costs roughly £19. It’s a three-hour stop, so be prepared for a decent chunk of time exploring underground tunnels and the museum.

Levant, Botallack, and Crowns Trail — Moving along the coast, you’ll see the iconic Crowns Engine Houses at Botallack, perched dramatically above the water. These structures are a visual testament to Cornwall’s industrial past. You’ll also visit The Count House, where miners collected wages, and learn about local legends, including a famous singer who performed there.

Cape Cornwall — This scenic spot features a monument with an unexpected story and Ballowall Barrow, a 10,000-year-old burial chamber. Then, a quick stop at Pendennis Castle, built in the 1540s, which has seen action from the Renaissance through WWII. Entry here is about £12.50, but the exterior alone provides a striking view of Cornwall’s coast.

Flexibility & Customization

One of the best parts? The tour is entirely private, so you can skip certain stops or spend more time at favorites. If you want to visit St. Michael’s Mount, that’s entirely your call. Glenys and Chris are happy to adapt the itinerary, making this experience very personalized.

How the Price Reflects Value

At around $642 for up to six people, this tour offers a good deal considering the depth and variety of sites, plus the personalized service. Private transport means comfort and convenience, and the guides’ local knowledge adds a layer of authenticity that you simply wouldn’t get in a bigger group tour.

Keep in mind that some attractions, like St. Michael’s Mount, Chysauster Village, and Geevor Mine, charge extra entry fees, which are not included in the tour price. If you’re interested in these sites, it’s good to budget accordingly.

What the Reviews Say

Melissa_T’s review sums it up nicely: “Chris brought the magic of Cornwall to life through adventure, tales and song. We had a blast!” Her mention of the guides’ storytelling and passion hints at what makes this tour special. She also appreciated the personal touch, which is a hallmark of private experiences.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a customized day of sightseeing with a small, friendly group. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenic views, and local stories and want a flexible schedule. The length can be tailored, making it suitable for those comfortable with a long day — up to 13 hours — full of walking, exploring, and engaging with Cornwall’s landscapes.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s focus on outdoor sites and manageable walking distances mean it could work for older children or teens interested in history and nature. It’s perfect for those who prefer to avoid crowded group tours and want an itinerary that’s built around their interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour can be from 5 to 13 hours, depending on how many stops you want and whether you choose to visit certain attractions like St. Michael’s Mount or Geevor Mine.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included, making travel between sites comfortable and efficient.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is private, and Glenys and Chris are happy to add or skip stops based on your preferences.

Are the entry fees included?
No, some sites like St. Michael’s Mount, Chysauster Village, and Geevor Mine charge separate entrance fees. These are paid on site.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. The guides provide torches for exploring fogous, and bottled water is included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it could work for older children interested in history and nature, provided they’re okay with a full day of exploring.

In all, this private tour of West Cornwall offers a personalized, flexible way to experience Cornwall’s ancient sites, scenic beauty, and mining history. The guides’ passion and the variety of stops make it a standout choice for travelers who want depth and customization in their sightseeing. Whether you’re into folklore, history, or simply stunning views, this tour can be tailored to fit your interests — making for a memorable day in one of England’s most charming regions.