Newquay Town Centre and Street Market

Now, arguably the largest town in North Cornwall, and the best known, Newquay was, like so many Cornish towns, historically a fishing port. Once known as Towna Blystra, the town’s ‘new quay’ was funded in the 1400s and the name stuck.

In the last decade Newquay’s reputation has changed somewhat, once known as a party town for stag parties and hen dos, it’s now much more gentrified. Making a wonderful location for a family holiday, surfing escape or a romantic break for two. Newquay Town Centre is full of independent eateries, cool coffee shops and an eclectic mix of shops, while the beaches are the most famous in the country. Newquay nightlife is still one of the best in the county with cocktail bars, late-night bars and nightclubs for those who want to party the night away.

Here we highlight some of the best that Newquay Town Centre has to offer.

Newquay Street Market

In May 2023, the town trialled a new destination market, Newquay Street Market. The sunny Saturday saw over 50 stalls alongside live music. Brimming with wonderful wares from local makers, producers and curators, from contemporary crafts, artisan makes, local lifestyle inspiration and delicious food and drink. Moving forward the aim is for Newquay Street Market to take place on a more regular basis.

Newquay Shops

It’ll come as no surprise that surfer’s paradise Newquay influences the shops on the high street, with surf shops being a speciality here. Head to Married to the Sea for ocean-inspired lifestyle clothing for men and women, meanwhile Watershed sell skateboards, surfboards, headwear, bags and lots of other cool apparel, or Northshore Surf Shop has a website so you can browse online then buy in store, where staff are super-friendly.

Newquay high street stretches the entire length of the town, and there’s a mix of shops to browse, so we’re sure there’s something for every style of shopper!

Newquay Events

In the summer months Newquay is full of vibrancy, with a roster of events taking place. However, you’ll find Newquay events taking place all year round. from music events, festivals and Cornish celebrations, there’s plenty to see and do.