While many people think of Cornwall as beaches, beaches and more beaches (and they wouldn't be wrong), the county is full of fabulous days out for all the family. Cornwall's tourist attractions bring visitors from all over the globe to see its fascinating historical landmarks such as Tintagel and Boscastle, to its modern eco-friendly and cultural attractions such as the infamous Eden Project and the Tate St Ives. There are lots of fun things to do in Cornwall for kids - some of the top attractions in Cornwall are theme parks and animal farms and
Wondering what to do in Cornwall? We’ve put together the top 10 things to do in Cornwall to make sure you don’t miss the very best of the county. From fun-filled family attractions to maritime history and important artists, Cornwall has it all. Why not stay at one of our self-catering holiday cottages in Cornwall? We have a wide collection of properties all across the Duchy just waiting to be discovered.
Cottages in Cornwall
1 - The Eden Project
The best for blending education, fun and outdoor adventure
Probably the most popular attraction in Cornwall, the world-famous Eden Project deserves to be top of the list. Not only is it full of fun and adventures but also lots of interactive opportunities to learn about the world we live in – whatever your age. Most notably it is home to the largest indoor rainforest in the world, housed inside a biome where you can wander beneath the rainforest canopy and discover jungle environments from all over the world.
Beyond the biome, you’ll find colourful outdoor gardens, interactive displays within The Core, a mass of intriguing sculptures, the longest zip wire in England, plus climbing frames and play areas designed for the little explorers in your party. Not forgetting the Eden Kitchen Restaurant where you can rest your feet at lunchtime! This really is one of the top things to do in Cornwall.
2 - Tate St Ives
The best of modern art
The only Tate Galley south of London, and what a perfect location for it too; St Ives is a glorious coastal town with a golden beach and vibrant atmosphere. There are many elements to Tate St Ives which will draw you in but we’ll start with the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. It showcases the unique work of one of the most important artists in the twentieth century after she came to live in Cornwall with husband Ben Nicholson in 1939.
The museum as it is today was once the Trewyn studios where she had lived and worked. After you’ve marvelled at these fascinating works you can follow in the footsteps of her husband, also an artist, with a walking tour around the town which connects important places to his work and life.
Tate St Ives is just one of the many top attractions in St Ives - alongside galleries for art lovers, there are a whole host of top days out to discover for everyone.
3 - Minack Theatre
The best for a unique theatrical experience
Another world-famous gem which Cornwall can lay claim to. Each year, tens of thousands of people visit for open-air performances but also just to look round and delve a little into the fascinating history of the Minack Theatre. Dating back to the early 1930s, as you can imagine, there’s a whole story to discover.
What will strike you most during your visit is the view which lies behind the stage and far out to sea. Make sure you take a moment to stop, look around you and simply appreciate the beauty of this fascinating location in Cornwall. As well as trying out the stage for yourself, taking a peek backstage and having a nosy at any rehearsals going on, you can also enjoy a quiet stroll around the sub-tropical gardens, learn the theatre’s story in the Exhibition Centre, and relax in the café and gift shop. Check out the best events in Cornwall in our events guide.
4 - Tintagel Castle
The best for Cornish mystery and legend
These aren’t just any castle ruins, Tintagel Castle is a popular Cornwall attraction with links to King Arthur. With many tales of myths and legends, there’s a lot of history to immerse yourself in, not only that but it’s a stunning location, high on a clifftop in the small town of Tintagel. From the Dark Age Settlement accessed across a wooden bridge to Merlin’s Cave on the tranquil beach below, spend some time exploring this magical setting and imagine what life might have been like when this was a thriving home in the 5th and 7th centuries.
Image courtesy of Flambards via Flamingo Marketing5. Flambards
The best for crazy rollercoaster rides and family fun
A proper fun-filled family day out is guaranteed at Cornwall’s Flambards. Enjoy a whole range of indoor and outdoor rides suitable for the whole family, but also a more unique experience awaits. Step back in time in the fascinating Victorian Village and experience what life was like in Britain during the Blitz. Here you’ll find life-size displays which recreate typical scenes from this era. Combined with rides with names like ‘Sky Swinger’, ‘Thunder Bolt’ and ‘Hornet Rollercoaster’ and play areas suitable for smaller children, there’s lots to fill a day out here. Please not that only the indoor rides and attractions are open during the winter. When little ones are with you on holiday, you'll need lots of kid-friendly things to do - check out our guide to find some of the best.
6 - Poldark Mine
The best for Cornish history
Calling all Poldark fans, this one’s for you! Visit the actual mine where the popular drama gets its name and where many of the scenes in the show were filmed! As the only complete tin mine in Cornwall, the site offers a unique insight into the mining heritage of Cornwall with underground guided tours of the caverns, tunnels and shafts, as well as unique exhibits. Set within four acres of beautiful riverside gardens in the River Cober valley, after delving deep into the mine and its history, you can blow away the cobwebs with a peaceful stroll through the gardens. A trip to the Poldark Mine and around the coastline discovering abandoned mines is truly one of the best things to do in Cornwall for history buffs. Explore the whole stretch of the Cornish coast with day trips to a selection of breathtaking beaches. Our guide brings you some extraordinary beaches that you won't believe are in Cornwall!
7 - National Maritime Museum
Best for boats, fish and frogmen
Where education and fun combine - the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth aims to offer an insight into Cornwall’s important connection with the sea. Through displays, exhibitions, talks and demonstrations you’ll learn about the boats that have been used over the years, from what part the ‘The Hold’ plays to the ‘Nav Station’. You can even visit the ‘Lookout Tower’ and enjoy spectacular views across the harbour. Children will love this museum - it's one of the best attractions in Cornwall with its unique maritime activities.
Other attractions at the museum include sailing your own boat in the ‘Waterfront’ and you can get underwater in the ‘Tidal Zone’. There’s also a gift shop and café on site.
8 - Land's End
Best for iconic landmark
A visit to Land’s End takes you to the westernmost point of Cornwall, an important landmark which offers spectacular natural scenery as well loads to do on a family day out. If there’s one thing you must remember to do, it’s to have your photo taken at the iconic signpost which, since the 1950s, has seen tourists from all over the world photographed here. Aside from that, a whole day of fun awaits with children’s activities that range from the likes of the Shaun the Sheep Experience to the 4D Film Experience and Arthur’s Quest! Adults will enjoy a spot of retail therapy in the array of shops, a visit to Penwith House Gallery, wildlife spotting at the RSPB Discovery Centre or stopping by Greeb Farm to visit the craftworks – plus so much more.
While the landmark attraction itself is owned by a private company, the cliffs to the left and right are owned by the National Trust. Visit some of England's glorious heritage here and across Cornwall with our guide to the top National Trust places to visit in Cornwall.
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9 - St Michael's Mount
Best for unique Cornish views
There’s something quite magical about a castle on an island of its own, accessed only by boat at high tide. Just off the coast from Penzance, a majestic castle and church stand tall upon its very own hill, a small village with cobbled medieval pathways, sub-tropical gardens, a harbour sitting in its shadow. Dating back to Norman times, this church was constructed in the 12th century and today offers an escape into a fairy-tale land.
On the island you’ll be able to discover the history of the castle, take a village tour or stroll through the peaceful gardens, picking your way through the winding secret pathways. The island guides are also on hand to tell tales of myths and legends and a castle quiz will help engage your little ones during a trip to St Michael's Mount.
10. Jubilee Pool
Best for memorable outdoor swimming
Nearly 100 years old, Jubilee Pool, in Penzance is the UK's largest seawater lido. Based right on the beach it's an iconic Art Deco structure where you can enjoy a day of swimming around and having fun with all your family and friends. It's geothermally heated and has a lifeguard service during opening hours. In addition, you can enjoy coffees, teas, and snacks at the poolside cafe. There is outdoor seating along the top poolside terrace. After a dip you can go antique hunting in the town centre or stroll along the waterfront to Newlyn or enjoy views across the bay to St Michael's Mount at Marazion.
Stay at a self-catering holiday cottage in Cornwall
Let us help you plan your next holiday with our handy guide to Cornwall, or check out our Cornwall cottages to find the perfect home from home. Why not visit our collection of holiday properties today; whether you are planning a romantic getaway with your partner or a fun family break with the kids, we have the perfect place for you.
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