One of Cornwall’s most popular attractions is the Eden Project. Hidden away in a former clay quarry, the giant biomes contain one of the UK’s most educational and eco-conscious attractions, yet manage to present it in a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining manner.

If you want to see how pineapples grow, what olives look like, where chocolate comes from and what a Malaysian stilt house is, then the Eden Project offers the perfect family day out for you to see, discover and learn. The incongruous-looking biomes contain different climatic conditions to provide a tropical rainforest environment and an arid Mediterranean climate, showing our total dependence on this amazing natural world.

Cornwall has far more than scenic beauty, great beaches and wonderful attractions. Begin your journey of discovery when you book a holiday here.

With everyone feeling the financial squeeze, we are all watching the pennies and when you go on holiday, admission to some attractions can be costly.

Several of the places that are worth a visit in Devon and Cornwall are free to explore and many offer alternative ways of spending a rainy afternoon or summers day whilst on holiday. Choose from nature related attractions to ancient monuments and quirky museums, perhaps learning more about the area you are visiting.

So read on to plan a West Country holiday list of activities that won’t cost you the earth.

Get out into the countryside and explore some of the best kept secrets of Cornwall’s scenery and all for free.

Try cliff top paths and walks around the industrial past. Perhaps a leisurely stroll around sights mentioned in literary work in Cornwall or along a river estuary. Walking is a great way to exercise and appreciate the beauty of Cornwall, and get to the less crowded areas of the county. You can even walk from one side of Cornwall to the other in a day.

Get your walking boots on and plan your route.

Devon is a wonderful mix of farmland, seaside resorts and historic towns. Seeing them from a bird’s eye view gives visitors a new perspective on this gorgeous area.

There are many unique ways to appreciate the beautiful county of Devon from the air. Consider a trip in a hot air balloon over the scenic South Hams, go hang gliding over Dartmoor or take a flying lesson over the city of Exeter, which will be the highlight of any holiday in Devon.

However you choose to explore Devon, you are sure to find plenty to see and do. A self-catering holiday home makes the perfect base so book your holiday in Devon with confidence.

Fresh local food is a joy to find and with an emphasis on slow food production Cornwall has some of the best delicacies around.

From fresh mackerel and freshly dug vegetables to artisan cheeses, there is a real buzz about food production in Cornwall as the emphasis moves from takeaway to pick your own and eat local. What better way to cook a feast than with the best that Cornwall produces and available in markets and farm shops.

Read on to find the best ingredients to create your feast or picnic.

For anyone visiting Devon in July, Cockington fair is a must do. For those visiting any other time, the historic village itself is a treat that should not be missed

A short distance from the sea front at Torquay and you will find yourself in the quaint, idyllic village of Cockington with its thatched roofs and picture postcard settings which leaves many holiday makers and locals alike, with a sense of relaxation which can only come from the completely unique setting at the heart of the English Riviera.

To find out more about this delightful haven, read the full article on Cockington .

"Tom Pearse, Tom Pearse, lend me your grey mare, All along, down along, out along lee, For I want for to go to Widdicombe Fair…"

Tread the same path as Uncle Tom Cobley and all at the world famous Widecombe fair. Travel through the winding lanes of Dartmoor and you will arrive in Widecombe and the mystery that surrounds this ancient village. The Dartmoor ponies that mingle with the inhabitants of the village will make you realise what a special experience a visit to Widecombe really is.

So why not join Uncle Tom Cobley on a visit to Widdecombe-on-the-moor

Getting around Devon and Cornwall by train has some big advantages over driving. The railway passes through some of the best rural and coastal scenery and avoids the hassle and expense of parking.

Whether you want to travel by local train or historic steam train, there are some great rail trips around your holiday home in Devon and Cornwall. Explore the coast with its many bridges, visit the historic naval port city of Plymouth or travel quickly and easily between the north and south coast. For children it is an unforgettable adventure and for adults it may be a trip down memory lane.

Book a self catering holiday home in Devon or Cornwall and enjoy a great base for exploring this beautiful area on foot, by car or by local train.

Visiting Cornwall is pleasant at any time of the year but have you considered combining your visit with one of the traditional celebrations or festivals?

From literature festivals to dancing in the streets and celebrating the best of Cornish food there are events to see and traditions to mark all year round. Visit in May for the Padstow Obby Oss or listen out for unique Cornish Carols at Christmas in a chapel or local pub. Learn something about the heritage of this beautiful county when you visit.

Plan your holiday in Cornwall around one of many celebrations held during the year.

Cornwall has its customs and local dialect rich in tradition and easy to pick up in conversation. Guessing the meaning can add an interesting flavour to your holiday memories.

It starts by hearing an odd expression that you don’t quite understand followed by a puzzled look as if to say, “Did I just hear that?” You have just encountered Cornish dialect, different to Cornish language, and widely spoken in rural areas. Part of the great Cornish holiday experience, going home without hearing it would not be the same experience.

Take time to learn a few words as you tour the county and start speaking like the locals.