Photos show what it's like to visit Cornwall, where you'll find the UK's most beautiful beaches, historic castles — and this week, world leaders
The idyllic seaside county of Cornwall in southwest England is welcoming world leaders for this year's G7 summit.
The leaders from the world's largest economies are gathered in Cornwall, a county in the UK's southwest, for this year's G7 summit.
The annual three-day conference — held this year from June 11 to June 13 — hosts leaders from the US, UK, Germany, France, Canada, Italy, and Japan.
The group meets to discuss policies and pressing issues on a global stage. This year, that global stage is a beautiful coastal county with scenic beaches and historic landmarks.
As some of the world's top leaders meet in Cornwall, the county is in the global spotlight. But locals have had a mixed reaction to the attention.
Across the county — which has a population of over 500,000, according to UK statistics visualization website Plumplot — people have had an array of reactions to the summit.
Some Cornwall locals see the high-profile event as a disruption as the county is inundated with people, the Associated Press reported. Meanwhile, others are excited to show their home off to the world, according to Cornwall Live.
In preparation for the conference, more than 5,000 police officers have flocked to the county, Insider previously reported. And as the BBC reported, a 10-foot gate was erected around Carbis Bay, where a majority of the conference will take place.
Morwenna Lawson, whose family is from Cornwall, told Insider that she has heard the kickback firsthand and shared concerns that the small county could be overrun with tourism.
"Travelers flock here because it's beautiful and accessible," Lawson, a content writer at Wordfairy, told Insider. She added that it's important for visitors to "remember that people live here too."
It's worth noting that, at the time of writing, the UK has travel restrictions in place and visitors arriving from most countries are still required to quarantine; you can find up-to-date information on the UK government's website.
The picturesque county is enticing even without famous leaders. Take a look at what it's like to visit the typically tranquil destination.
Before the pandemic, Cornwall was known as a tranquil but popular holiday destination in the UK. Today, Lawson says, "it is THE holiday destination in the UK."
So don't expect a solitary vacation.
Lawson shared a few tips for interested visitors. The county's forecast can quickly change, so pack for all types of weather, she said, adding that you'll want to bring or rent a car — and be prepared for traffic.
"When you're coming to Cornwall, set your timescale to a slower pace," she said. "Be patient with the roads and the queues. Pre-book everything you need to. Expect to book accommodation way in advance of a trip."
Cornwall has over 300 beaches across its 422 miles of shoreline. Some of the most popular beaches include St Ives Bay and Carbis Bay Beach.
According to Visit Cornwall, the county's official tourism page, the region is known for its 300 beaches.
While St Ives Bay and Carbis Bay beach are two of the most popular beaches, the tourism site says there are plenty of smaller, under-the-radar beaches to explore as well.
Lawson told Insider that different areas of the coast are ideal for a variety of travelers.
"The far west is rugged and stunning, and the north coast is brilliant for surfing and cliff walks," she said.
Currently, Carbis Bay is closed to tourists since most of the G7 summit is being held in the village.
The majority of the three-day G7 summit is taking place in Carbis Bay, specifically at the Carbis Bay Hotel, so if you're looking to explore the village, now is not the time.
It's also where President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson met earlier this week.
Near Carbis Bay, you'll find the town of St Ives, one of the county's most popular destinations.
As one of the county's most famous destinations, the seaside town is popular with tourists.
Currently, most of the town is closed due to the G7 summit, but in typical months, visitors can explore the village's numerous beaches, art museums, galleries, and gardens, or embark on outdoor adventures, according to Visit Cornwall.
Cornwall is also known for its castles and historic landmarks, like the Pendennis Castle and the Minack Theatre.
The Pendennis Castle and the Minack Theater are just two of many historic sites within the county.
Not technically a castle, Pendennis Castle is an artillery fort constructed by Henry VIII, and is currently open to visitors.
Minack Theatre, the ruins of an open-air theater, is perched on a cliff and hosts performances and plays with a stunning backdrop. According to the theater's website, it's worth booking in advance if you want to catch a performance.
Lawson said Restormel Castle tops her list of favorite castles. It's located in the countryside near River Fowey and has earned its place as one of the most remarkable castles in England, according to its website.
The Bidens and other G7 world leaders are residing in an 18th-century castle for the summit.
The Bidens arrived in Cornwall on Wednesday evening and are staying at the Tregenna Castle Resort for the duration of the G7 Summit, according to The Week.
The rest of the G7 leaders arrived later on Thursday to find their rooms in the castle, which was built in 1774, The Week reports. According to the publication, the 98-room hotel sits on 72 acres of land, making it one of the largest resorts in the county.
From history to nature, Cornwall has it all.
As Lawson says, the region is filled with beautiful experiences — just make sure you research and be respectful to the seaside county.
"Enjoy the sights and do get out and walk as much as you can – this is THE place to hike," Lawson said. "Give it my love!"