Newquay Airport Car Hire

Discover Newquay and its surroundings by car

Newquay grew up around its harbour. It was small in size but grew after the eighteenth century when Cornwall’s mineral ore started to be transported to Wales for smelting. The harbour and pier is a great area for a walk and there are plenty of cafés if you get hungry. There is an odd little whitewashed building above the harbour which is known as Huer’s Hut. It was a hermitage in 1300 and the monks put lights there to warn ships. Later it became the ideal spot for fishermen to spot shoals of pilchards. The Huer could signal to those below to drop the nets.

Newquay is a spot that is loved by surfers. The conditions are ideal. Many Americans and Australians come over for it. Some of the waves get up to ten metres in winter. The best beaches for surfing are Watergate Bay, Fistral Beach and Crantock Beach. They all have surf schools and hire facilities. Every year there is the Boardmasters Festival in August with live music, barbecues, and DJ sessions.

If you want a gentler swim, Porth Beach is a safer bet. Park your Europcar car and explore the interesting areas nearby. There is a footbridge from the cliff to Porth Island which has Iron Age remains and Bronze Age burrows.

A short drive from Newquay will take you to Carnewas at Bedruthan Steps. It has one of the best views in Cornwall with jagged rocks and the stone stacks on the beach.

Padstow is a great place to eat out. You can try Rick Stein’s restaurant or a host of others. Also check out the marine conservation site by South Quay, the National Lobster Hatchery. You won’t be eating them, but you can adopt one!

Clean Air Zone

When planning a trip, keep in mind that certain cities have established a Clean Air Zone. Click here to check that your vehicle emissions meet the required level or a fee will be chargeable.

You can rest assured when hiring with us, all Europcar vehicles comply with Clean Air Zone requirements.