Rachael Rowe

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.

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.

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.