Cornwall Life talks to Julia Cox, Tourism Press and PR Executive with VisitCornwall, who describes how important Truro is to Cornwall and her favourite parts of the city
Julia Cox, Tourism Press and PR Executive with VisitCornwall, describes how important Truro is to Cornwall and her favourite parts of the city
As the county’s capital and hub of commerce, Truro offers visitors to the county an alternative to the coastal resorts. The city’s tourism offering has developed over the last decade and, as well as the main visitor attractions such as the cathedral and the Royal Cornwall Museum, the city now has a range of great accommodation, places to eat and a variety of events.
Julia has been with VisitCornwall for six years and is the person that helps promote Cornwall to the media as being a great place to go on holiday. She arranges press visits to the county and answers journalist’s weird and wonderful questions about Cornwall. She has sent a number of travel journalists in the direction of Truro and introduced them to the great restaurants and attractions that the city has to offer.
What is your favourite thing to do
in Truro?
It’s got to be shopping. Truro is one of the best places for retail therapy in Cornwall, with a mix of independent and national high street shops. The city has some lovely little streets and tucked away mews, which very often hide some great shops.
It’s also a great place to visit for some pampering. My favourite hair salon is The Lounge in Kenwyn Street, and the Byu-TI Medispa is worth a visit for those extra special treats, such as a facial or pedicure.
Where do you like to eat out
in Truro?
Truro’s foodie options have really improved in the last couple of years. I like the One Eyed Cat or The Old Grammar School for an easy lunch, and Bustophers Bar Bistro or Mannings Restaurant for something special in the evening. I’m also a big fan of the new Lavender Deli on Victoria Square, which offers a delicious selection of cheeses and homemade goodies ��– a perfect place to go for a treat.
Name a couple of interesting specialist shops in the city that you like
A fantastic shop called Emma’s Home, which sells all things Cath Kidston and Shabby Chic, has recently opened in Walsingham Place and is great for picking up interior ideas and stylish gifts. I also love the gorgeous Phoenix Cards and, of course, the Artisan Cookshop and Calico. For local produce you can’t beat Baker Tom’s bread in Lemon Street Market – bread heaven!
How would you spend an evening out in Truro?
I quite often join the throng of people enjoying after-work drinks in Truro and particularly like Vanilla Wine Bar. I’m also a regular visitor to the Hall for Cornwall and am looking forward to taking my nephew to see Sleeping Beauty there this Christmas, which will be his first pantomime!
What is an unmissable event for you in the city?
The Cornwall Food & Drink Festival at the end of September is definitely my favourite Truro event, it’s got an exciting vibe to it and brings together chefs and local producers who have a real passion for Cornwall. It also provides the opportunity to indulge in the best Cornish food and drink, which is always welcome!
How to get there
Being a main destination in Cornwall, Truro is hard to miss on any map. From the north of the county, take the A38 from Saltash to Liskeard, then the A390 straight down to Truro.
For further information contact Visit Cornwall, Pydar House,
Pydar Street, Truro, TR1 1EA. 01872 322900, www.visitcornwall.com
