When you think about how a lot there may be to do in Cornwall with children, it’s no shock that the area is without doubt one of the hottest locations within the UK for a household vacation (and certainly one of my very own private favourites) – and why a information to Cornwall with children would possibly come in useful to assist plan.
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From these attractive seashores to picturesque villages and superb countryside, historical past galore whether or not you’re intrigued by castles, Arthurian legend or mines, loads of likelihood to get outside, to not point out iconic spots like Land’s Finish and the Eden Venture, you’ll be able to return time and again and nonetheless discover someplace new.
So I’ve rounded up a number of the finest issues to do in Cornwall for households, together with days out with children in Cornwall, concepts for issues to do in Cornwall with toddlers, wet days out in Cornwall, in addition to locations to go to in Cornwall without cost in my final information to Cornwall with children.
Greatest issues to do in Cornwall for households
Should you’re undecided the place to start, take a look at a few of my posts on the necessities you’ll be able to’t miss – together with my prime issues to do in Cornwall with children.
If the climate isn’t the fantastic solar you have been hoping for, I’ve additionally picked out the very best issues to do in Cornwall within the rain with children, in addition to the very best seashores in Cornwall for teenagers when the climate’s nice – whether or not you’re hoping to swim, make sandcastles or stroll alongside the coast.
There are additionally finances concepts in case you’re looking for the very best free days out in Cornwall and in case you’re venturing past the mainland to the attractive islands off the coast, I’ve received a information to the Isles of Scilly with recommendations on issues to do and see on the totally different islands.
Or preserve scrolling for extra concepts of household points of interest and days out throughout the entire county.
Free days out in Cornwall
Travelling with children isn’t at all times low-cost, even on a UK staycation – though whereas the solar shines, you’ll be able to spend loads of time on the seaside for the value of an ice cream and a bucket and spade.
Listed below are a few of my favorite seashores in case you’re trying to relax on the sand however scroll down for extra concepts.
However there are many totally different free issues to do in Cornwall, together with some free points of interest in Cornwall and low-cost days out.
You’ll be able to discover a number of the smaller museums, together with the Museum of Cornish Life in Helston, or the little Tintagel Toy Museum – best in case you’re searching for free issues to do in Cornwall within the rain too.
For extra concepts of free issues to do in Cornwall on a wet day, the Falmouth Artwork Gallery has gained an award for its family-friendliness, with altering exhibitions and over 1,700 artworks within the assortment.
There are many outside points of interest as properly, to not point out extra walks than you’ll be able to depend on the South West Coast Path – there’s a bit on the very best walks in Cornwall for households so you could find a stretch close to you.
Within the northern a part of the county, you’ll be able to discover Bodmin Moor, together with the Golitha Falls Nature Reserve which additionally has buggy-friendly footpaths, in addition to stepping stones throughout the water.
And at Mount Edgcumbe Nation Park, proper close to the border with Devon, the 865 acres of nation park are free to discover, with trails and wild deer to identify. The home and formal gardens do price to enter.
Should you’d somewhat cycle, there’s the well-known Camel path, in addition to locations to take your bikes at Lanhydrock and Cardinham Woods (though there’s a cost for parking).
Or head to the farm: you’ll be able to see a number of the big tanks, in addition to the animals at Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm – full excursions are paid, and chances are high you’ll want just a few further pennies for extra cider to take house.
Roskilly’s Ice Cream Farm remains to be fully free to go to (let’s be life like, you’ll wish to purchase a minimum of one ice cream although however that also qualifies on a listing of low-cost days out in Cornwall) and you may discover the working dairy farm on the south coast close to St Keverne.
Issues to do in Cornwall within the rain
Whether or not you’re visiting in midsummer or out of season, it pays to be ready for dangerous climate, however you’re nonetheless spoiled for selection in case you’re questioning what to do in Cornwall when it rains.
I’ve pulled collectively a listing of my prime issues to do in Cornwall when it rains however listed here are just a few highlights to start out you off.
The Eden Venture’s two biomes gained’t simply preserve you dry however will transport you to the Mediterranean and the rainforest.
Or for different indoor actions, Cornwall has some pretty household points of interest the place you’ll be able to keep dry – Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay was certainly one of my daughter’s favourites as a toddler, whereas close by Pirate’s Quest Journey Golf is one other nice choice.
In Falmouth, you’ll be able to head to the Nationwide Maritime Museum which regularly has actions in addition to a wide range of exhibitions.
On the other coast, younger art-lovers can’t beat a visit to Tate St Ives.
There are additionally loads of historic homes to discover in Cornwall, together with Trerice, and the Tudor manor home of Cotehele.
Or head underground to the Carnglaze Caverns or to a real mine courting again to the 18th century at Geevor Tin Mine.
You’ll be able to nonetheless discover undercover as properly, at one of many historic railways in Cornwall – the Bodmin & Wenford steam railway enables you to see a number of the countryside with out getting moist, or take a look at the Lappa Valley steam railway if you need enjoyable issues to do within the rain in Cornwall with toddlers.
Outside actions in Cornwall
Cornwall has numerous stunning locations to get exterior, with two coasts and lovely countryside – take a look at a number of the strategies in my free days out in Cornwall ideas above.
For starters, you’ve received countless selections if you wish to go strolling, with family-friendly stretches of the South West coast path, plus cycle trails together with the Camel Valley path and choices at Lanhydrock.
And Cornall can also be excellent for watersports, most famously browsing. You needn’t have tried earlier than with surf faculties dotted round Cornwall, a lot of which provide classes for youthful surfers as properly.
There’s additionally bodyboarding and stand-up paddle boarding to attempt across the coast, together with kayaking and sea kayaking, crusing plus the Retallack Resort aqua park at Padstow.
Issues to do in north Cornwall with children
Should you’re staying on Cornwall’s wilder north coast or exploring the countryside in north Cornwall, I’ve picked a number of the finest issues to do in north Cornwall with children to start out you off.
Formally north Cornwall covers the stretch all the way down to Padstow and inland to Bodmin, together with Wadebridge, Launceston, Lanhydrock, Camelford and Tintagel, amongst different highlights.
However in case you’re staying in Padstow, for instance, you’re really nearer to Newquay than Bude, so it’s value testing the subsequent part of my household Cornwall information as properly.
Get outside
This a part of Cornwall is nice in case you’re trying to attempt watersports – Freewave Surf Academy in Bude specialises in classes for households, and there’s bodyboarding and SUP on the listing in addition to browsing.
Should you’re visiting Cornwall with teenagers, you possibly can additionally attempt coasteering at Bude and Polzeath, close to Port Isaac, to get your coronary heart racing.
North Cornwall can also be house to the stunning Camel path with its cycle observe and strolling routes on the disused railway line – simple sufficient for teenagers to attempt, as I bear in mind from my very own childhood holidays, and simple to discover in sections such because the five-mile experience from Wadebridge to Padstow.
One of many loveliest stretches of the South West coast path runs alongside the River Camel, and it’s an excellent one for teenagers – the Sir John Betjeman stroll is simple going, passes the seaside and results in St Enodoc Church the place the poet laureate is buried.
There are family-friendly trails at Cardinham Woods too, together with the Julia Donaldson-inspired trails from the Forestry Fee but in addition 4 strolling trails, certainly one of which is buggy-friendly in case you’re visiting Cornwall with a child, and three cycle trails.
Or uncover the countryside round Bodmin Moor, one of many wildest components of Cornwall, with Bronze Age and Neolithic cairns and stone circles and its personal retailer of ghost tales and legends.
There’s geocaching to attempt, you possibly can stroll a part of the 60-mile Copper Path strolling route or select the better footpaths on the Golitha Falls Pure Reserve.
See the animals
Not removed from Port Isaac, higher often known as the setting for TV collection Doc Martin, Trevathan Farm is a working farm that’s a stunning time out in case you’re visiting Cornwall with toddlers or youthful children.
In addition to animals to identify, there’s fruit choosing in the summertime, plus pumpkin carving at Halloween – to not point out an journey playground.
For extra of a thrill, head inland to see birds of prey with two days out that may be reached from Padstow and Newquay. The Cornish Birds of Prey Centre is house to greater than 50 rescued birds of prey, together with owls, eagles and hawks, with common flying shows.
And the Screech Owl Wildlife Park has flying shows and owl talks, in addition to owl dealing with periods for teenagers aged 11+
The Tamar Otter Centre close to Launceston has now sadly closed
For an unforgettable wildlife expertise, head off to sea with Padstow Sealife Safaris – you possibly can spot seals, dolphins, porpoises, and even sunfish and basking sharks, together with birds galore.
There are journeys appropriate for youngsters below 5 in addition to older ones, though toddlers are unlikely to have the eye span for a two-hour cruise.
One of many quirkiest issues to do in north Cornwall with children is go to the Nationwide Lobster Hatchery in Padstow, a charity which focuses on dialog – and the place you’ll be able to see child lobsters, even undertake and identify them.
Go to a theme park
The previous Crealy’s Journey Park reopened in 2018 as Camel Creek Journey Park, simply south of Padstow.
There’s nonetheless a little bit of the whole lot together with rides, indoor and outside journey play – so it’s an excellent choice for a wet day in north Cornwall with children – plus a 5D theatre to journey by way of time.
Historical past and tradition
North Cornwall is without doubt one of the finest areas in Cornwall with children who love historical past; you’ll be able to journey again in time wandering the streets of little villages, uncover the legends of King Arthur, discover smugglers, to not point out current historical past.
Fantastic Tintagel is someplace to not miss, it’s a genuinely magical setting and you may nonetheless cross to the clifftop ruins of Tintagel Fort – the dramatic web site is the birthplace of King Arthur, in response to legend, with Merlin’s Cave seen on the seaside at low tide and a sculpture of the As soon as and Future King on the cliffs.
When you’re there, cease in and uncover Tintagel Previous Put up Workplace too – initially a farmhouse courting again over 600 years, it was later transformed right into a letter-receiving workplace with actions for teenagers.
For followers of King Arthur, find time for a go to to the Vale of Avalon in Slaughterbridge (previously the Arthurian Centre) as properly, round 10 minutes from Tintagel and never removed from Camelford, with its medieval origins.
Right here you’ll be able to see King Arthur’s Stone and, in response to legend, the fields the place Arthur and Mordred met for his or her final battle. It’s additionally house to Girl Falmouth’s Secret Backyard, an 18th century backyard that’s presently being restored.
For extra legends, the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic at Boscastle isn’t far-off both. Positively a extra uncommon time out with children in Cornwall, it’s a unusual option to spend an hour or so.
Additional down the coast, the village of Port Isaac is filled with smuggling historical past – the Golden Lion pub even has an outdated smuggling tunnel main all the way down to the seaside. I’m a fan of Treasure Trails to discover with children and there’s a Treasure Hunt for the village.
Don’t miss Squeezy Stomach alley too, one of many narrowest passageways in Britain.
And for newer historical past, discover some Victorian life at Nationwide Belief property Lanhydrock, the place you’ll be able to poke across the servants’ quarters and kitchens in addition to the household’s extra luxurious rooms and the nursery.
Different North Cornwall household points of interest
Take a look at the Bodmin space for another nice household points of interest. The Carnglaze Caverns are on the south fringe of Bodmin Moor, and the previous slate mine is now a mini heritage attracftion – there are some guided excursions in summer season, however in any other case it’s a self-guided go to.
You too can spot bats in case you’re fortunate, and hunt for dragons exterior on the Woodland Stroll and within the Enchanted Dell.
The Bodmin & Wenford Railway is a stunning option to discover the world, excellent in case you’re visiting north Cornwall with toddlers or searching for concepts for a wet day in Cornwall.
The steam trains observe a 13-mile route, and there are sometimes themed occasions resembling Halloween and Santa trains to look out for.
Or older children can be fascinated by Bodmin Jail, supposedly probably the most haunted locations in Britain. With a brand new immersive customer expertise, there’s an opportunity to study the historical past of the jail as you’re transported again to the 18th century.
Issues to do in Newquay with children
Well-known for its browsing, Newquay can also be one of many first locations in Cornwall that I visited with my daughter, so there’s lots to do in case you’re planning to go to Cornwall with a toddler as properly.
Check out the part on north Cornwall (above) as properly, as you’re not removed from Padstow and its points of interest too, for extra concepts of issues to do close to Newquay with children.
Get outside
Should you’re searching for issues to do outside in Newquay, there are seashores, seashores and extra seashores for starters. Fistral seaside is understood for its browsing, or you’ll be able to discover the wilder dunes of Crantock, and spot donkeys at Mawgan Porth.
To not point out numerous different well-known coves (and fewer well-known stretches of sand) together with Tolcarne Seashore, Watergate Bay, Lusty Glaze Seashore, Perranporth Seashore, Towan seaside within the city itself.
Should you’re searching for dog-friendly seashores in Newquay, take a look at this listing.
If you’d like greater than a spot to construct sandcastles, it’s incredible for watersports, together with bodyboarding and coasteering, plus extra surf faculties than you’ll be able to shake a board at. Take a look at Newquay Exercise Centre too for teenagers and household classes and actions.
On land, you possibly can attempt some biking – a part of the Cornish Means cycle route runs to and from Newquay – in addition to strolling. The South West Coast Path in West Cornwall consists of some family-friendly walks round Newquay.
See the animals
The Blue Reef aquarium sits proper on Towan seaside in Newquay so it’s excellent if you might want to escape the showers – though it’s at all times excessive on my listing of what to do in Newquay with children, regardless of the climate.
There are 40 totally different habitats contained in the aquarium, together with creatures you’ll be able to spot off the Cornish coast in addition to these from extra unique seas, together with turtles, caiman and pufferfish.
Learn what we considered a day at Blue Reef aquarium in Newquay with a toddler
And greater than a thousand totally different creatures stay at Newquay Zoo, from tiny creepy crawlies as much as massive cats, as properly exercise trails and play areas.
For extra of a thrill, head inland to see birds of prey with two days out that may be reached from Padstow and Newquay. The Cornish Birds of Prey Centre is house to greater than 50 rescued birds of prey, together with owls, eagles and hawks, with common flying shows.
And the Screech Owl Wildlife Park has flying shows and owl talks, in addition to owl dealing with periods for teenagers aged 11+.
Close to Padstow, Macdonalds Farm (previously Previous Macdonalds Farm) has day go to choices, so you’ll be able to expertise a number of the play areas and meet the animals.
EDIT: Dairyland Farm World has sadly closed as of November 2024
Go to a theme park
The previous Crealy’s Journey Park reopened in 2018 as Camel Creek Journey Park, simply north of Newquay.
There’s nonetheless a little bit of the whole lot together with rides, indoor and outside journey play – so it’s an excellent choice for a wet day in north Cornwall with children – plus a 5D theatre to journey by way of time.
Historical past and tradition
Should you’re searching for historic locations to go to in Newquay, there’s lots to tempt – beginning with the sixteenth century manor home of Trerice, not far-off.
In addition to exploring the grounds, the home is one other great spot to go to on a wet day in Newquay, together with actions and crafts for teenagers, and Tudor costumes.
Or uncover certainly one of Cornwall’s cliff castles, additionally referred to as promontory forts, whose historical past goes again to the Iron Age: Trevelgue Head is without doubt one of the most spectacular. Also referred to as Porth Island, it’s simple to stroll to from Newquay with some spectacular views.
Different household points of interest in Newquay
Swashbuckle your means again to the 18th century at Pirate’s Quest Journey Golf and also you’ll be capable of uncover extra in regards to the Golden Age of Piracy alongside the way in which.
It’s an excellent choice in case you’re visiting Newquay within the rain with children.
Not removed from Newquay itself, Lappa Valley Steam railway is a incredible choice for youthful children too: with extra than simply trains, there are nature trails, a path maze and kids’s rides.
Issues to do in St Ives with children
One other of the most well-liked locations to go to in Cornwall with children, St Ives and the close by West Cornwall coast has some nice days out and points of interest, plus you’re in simple exploring distance of Penzance, Land’s Finish and the South Cornwall coast, so it’s value testing these sections too.
To begin you off, I’ve picked a few of my favorite issues to do in St Ives with children as properly.
Get outside
Like a lot of Cornwall, you’ve received a string of attractive seashores to select from in St Ives and close by, together with three which couldn’t be simpler to get to from the city.
Porthgwidden Seashore has brightly colored seaside huts and rocks to discover, Porthmeor Seashore close to Tate St Ives for browsing and sand, plus Porthminster Seashore for paddling and extra sandcastles.
There are restrictions on visiting the primary seashores with canine through the summer season months, however you could find some dog-friendly seashores in St Ives too.
It’s additionally an excellent space if you wish to get energetic – Blue Flag seaside Carbis Bay is a mile east of St Ives alongside the South West Coast path, so nice motivation for a stroll, plus there are extra concepts for family-friendly strolling routes round St Ives.
Should you don’t wish to wander too far, take a stroll alongside Smeatons Pier as properly: it’s a working pier with fishing boats crusing from the harbour and the occasional seal altering its luck, plus you’ll get nice views of St Ives itself.
Or there are numerous surf faculties in St Ives – providing different watersports as properly, and with choices for household classes, together with St Ives Surf Faculty on Porthmeor seaside.
See the animals
The seas round St Ives are an excellent place to identify seals – together with journeys out to Seal Island, simply off the coast. Maintain a watch out for basking sharks, sunfish and dolphins too.
In any other case, you’ll be able to typically see seals at Godrevy Head – in case you’re visiting St Ives in winter, there are greater numbers for a cold-weather bonus. Head to Mutton Cove at Godrevy Level and look down from the cliffs to the seaside to see them.
Otherwise you’ll discover extra issues to do round St Ives, together with Paradise Park and Jungle Barn in Hayle, with over 130 species of fowl, from native Cornish choughs to flamingos, in addition to pink pandas and livestock.
You too can meet the animals at Feadon Farm on the coast north of St Ives, not removed from Portreath. In addition to livestock, you’ll be able to see foxes and owls, in addition to studying extra about native wildlife.
Learn our assessment of assembly the animals at Feadon Farm, Gwel An Mor
Go to a theme park
Should you’re searching for theme parks close to St Ives, head in the direction of the south coast and also you’ll discover Flambards – round half an hour away in Helston.
There are totally different actions for all ages, together with gentler rollercoasters and play areas for youthful children, and extra adrenline-fuelled rides for teenagers and thrillseekers.
Historical past and tradition
One of many greatest cultural points of interest is Tate St Ives, the Cornish department of the gathering of artwork galleries, with trendy artwork and momentary exhibitions working. There are additionally household trails and it’s free for teenagers.
For some native historical past, head to the little St Ives Museum, which has displays on native fishing, farming and mining, in addition to exercise sheets for teenagers – spot the cats and kittens within the show instances.
And just some miles from St Ives itself lies Chysauster historic village, a Romano-British settlement initially occupied nearly 2,000 years in the past whose stone-walled courtyard homes are solely discovered on this a part of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
You too can see the Iron Age fort of Fort An Dinas close to Nancledra – to not be confused with Fort An Dinas in north Cornwall, nearer to Bodmin!
Issues to do round Penzance with children
This a part of Cornwall is one you’ll be able to simply go to from St Ives or from south Cornwall, together with the Lizard and the coast stretching in the direction of Falmouth, so it’s value testing the sections earlier than and after this for extra concepts of what there may be to do within the space
Get outside
As certainly one of Cornwall’s greatest cities, Penzance is a superb base to discover this a part of the county, together with the westernmost level of England, however realistically in case you’re getting outside, you’ll be heading out of Penzance itself.
There are countless picturesque fishing villages to discover, together with the famously named Mousehole (pronounced extra like Mowzel), however probably the most well-known spot to stroll to must be Land’s Finish.
There’s excess of simply the well-known signal – scroll all the way down to examine extra of the household points of interest at Land’s Finish – however you’ve additionally received miles of dramatic coast to wander round, in addition to simple family-friendly walks on the South West Coast Path.
The Cornish Means cycle path additionally begins from Land’s Finish with a traffic-free part.
You too can discover probably the most uncommon spots within the UK on the Minack Theatre. This dramatic theatre is constructed on the facet of the cliff, with fantastic views out to the waves – you’ll be able to ebook to go to through the day, however there are additionally performances together with storytelling periods geared toward households.
Porthcurno Seashore has some nice views trying again as much as the theatre too, certainly one of my favorite seashores in Cornwall with children – canine are allowed too, besides throughout July and August.
Or not removed from Penzance itself, head to Tanglewood Wild Backyard – 9 acres of untamed gardens together with woodland and 9 ponds. It’s an ideal place to spy wildlife or simply get pleasure from being out in nature.
In distinction Tremeheere Sculpture Gardens, set in a sheltered valley, are house to subtropical vegetation in addition to up to date artworks – however nonetheless family-friendly.
For extra unique vegetation, Trengwainton Backyard has walled gardens to guard a few of its extra uncommon species, in addition to magnolias and rhododendrons. Wander the wooded paths for views out to the ocean and uncover a kitchen backyard constructed – somewhat unexpectedly – to the size of Noah’s Ark.
See the animals
You’ll must journey from Penzance in case you’re searching for animal points of interest – the closest are the Paradise Park and Jungle Barn in Hayle, close to St Ives, and the Cornish Seal Sanctuary at Gweek, close to Helston.
Go to a theme park
The closest theme park to Penzance can also be at Helston – Flambards is round half-hour away with actions for all ages, from gentler rollercoasters and play areas for youthful children, to extra adrenline-fuelled rides for teenagers and thrillseekers.
Historical past and tradition
The world round Penzance is ideal in case you’re trying to uncover some Cornish historical past. A go to to St Michael’s Mount is like entering into one other world.
You’ll be able to stroll medieval paths, discover the fort and uncover the village and harbour, together with free excursions to study extra about life on this little island – at low tide you’ll be able to even stroll throughout the causeway (following within the footsteps of giants, so legend says) or boats run from Marazion.
Considered one of Cornwall’s largest preserved mine websites can also be not removed from Penzance – Geevor Tin Mine was as soon as a real mine courting again to the 18th century, and you may nonetheless discover each the museum and head underground.
Different household points of interest in and round Penzance
Considered one of Cornwall’s extra uncommon museums, the Museum of World Communications in Porthcurno is an interesting take a look at a slice of British – and world – historical past.
With telegraph cables stretching below the ocean from Porthcurno to the cities of the Empire, this quiet spot was as soon as Britain’s communications centre.
The well-known signpost at Land’s Finish is what everybody associates with this level on the finish of England (that and really lengthy walks to John O’Groats) however there are many different household points of interest right here.
There’s the walk-through expertise Arthur’s Quest, Aardman Presents: A Grand Expertise, with a number of the best-loved characters from Wallace and Gromit to Shaun the Sheep, plus a 4D cinema, Greeb Farm, a restored farmstead that’s house to a string of animals.
Issues to do in South Cornwall with children
Should you’re staying on the Lizard Peninsula or round Falmouth, I’ve grouped collectively a number of the finest issues to do in South Cornwall with children into this part – in case you’re searching for the world across the Eden Venture, preserve scrolling to take a look at my ideas for South East Cornwall for teenagers.
Alternatively, you could find concepts for issues to do close to Penzance and Land’s Finish within the part above.
Get outside
Should you take a look at a map of Cornwall’s south coast, the very first thing that strikes you is simply how inexperienced it’s – from the Lizard Peninsula to the Roseland Heritage coast, you possibly can stroll till your legs are worn out with out working out of selections.
For somewhat much less exhausting choices, you possibly can attempt the stroll round Argal Reservoir, not removed from Falmouth, or discover the grounds and woodland walks round Tressilick close to Truro.
There are additionally family-friendly walks on the South West Coast Path beginning not removed from Falmouth, whereas the Bissoe Path will take you the entire means throughout Cornwall from the south coast to the north, close to Portruth.
For someplace to walk and marvel, head to Trebah Backyard the place 4 miles of footpaths lead you thru stunning gardens all the way down to a non-public seaside.
There are seashores galore alongside the south Cornwall coast as properly – Gyllingvase (or Gylly) seaside in Falmouth was certainly one of our favourites once we visited. Or on the Lizard peninsula itself, stunning Kynance Cove is certainly one of my favourites.
Each have restrictions from Might to September in case you’re visiting with canine, however are dog-friendly at different occasions.
See the animals
Meet seals and sea lions on the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek, lower than half an hour from Falmouth – you can too spot different wildlife, together with otters and penguins, in addition to the interactive rockpool.
Go to a theme park
The closest theme park in case you’re staying in South Cornwall is at Helston – Flambards is round half-hour away with actions for all ages, from gentler rollercoasters and play areas for youthful children, to extra adrenline-fuelled rides for teenagers and thrillseekers.
Historical past and tradition
Falmouth artwork gallery has gained an award for its family-friendliness, with household actions together with choices for preschoolers, alongside the altering exhibitions – and greater than 1,700 artworks for little artwork lovers to discover.
Should you’re searching for historical past, Pendennis Fort is unbeatable – looming on the headland simply exterior Falmouth, it was constructed by Henry VIII to defend towards invasion, and you may benefit from the views from the highest of the Tudor preserve, attempt actions and discover the outdated buildings.
Different South Cornwall points of interest for households
Falmouth is house to the Nationwide Maritime Museum Cornwall, beforehand voted one of many nation’s most family-friendly museums, trying on the nation’s seafaring historical past and its boating heroes.
Take a look at my assessment of our day on the museum, together with a number of the everlasting shows and a brief Viking exhibition – unmissable in case you’re searching for issues to do in Falmouth with children.
Truro, Cornwall’s county city, can also be house to the Royal Cornwall Museum which follows Cornish tradition and historical past from the traditional previous to the current – plus you’ll be able to see an Egyptian mummy. Free for teenagers.
Issues to do in south-east Cornwall with children
Considered one of Cornwall’s most well-known points of interest, the Eden Venture, is about on this typically neglected a part of Cornwall, however you can too discover attractive spots like Mevagissey, Polperro and Fowey on this space.
Relying the place within the county you’re staying, it’s value testing the opposite sections too, together with north Cornwall – whereas it’s the south coast, Mevagissey is lower than an hour from Newquay and Fowey is lower than half an hour from Bodmin.
Get outside
The previous house of Earls, there are 865 acres at Mount Edgcumbe nation park with walks galore – in addition to the possibility to discover the formal gardens within the grounds of the home.
There are totally different trails to observe or you’ll be able to wander by the river, the place it’s doable to identify wild deer.
Or the Misplaced Gardens of Heligan have a narrative as fascinating as their evocative identify – hidden till 30 years in the past, they’ve since been restored to their full glory together with walks and magical gardens for teenagers.
Look out for The Jungle and the buried troll head (or probably an enormous’s head), however with 200 acres to discover, there’s plenty to maintain children entertained.
There are additionally some enjoyable household walks on the South West Coast Path in south east Cornwall, together with stretches close to Fowey and Portmellon.
See the animals
Porfell Wildlife Park is a stunning place to discover with youthful children, house to meerkats and livestock, plus an opportunity to carry a number of the animals and feed others.
Or little Mevagissey Aquarium is good to study extra about native marine life. Set in an outdated RNLI lifeboat home, it’s additionally free to enter.
Should you’re craving extra animals, Newquay Zoo is just round 45 minutes from Mevagissey.
Historical past and tradition
Restormel Fort could also be ruined however it’s nonetheless a outstanding place to discover – constructed within the thirteenth century, it’s been visited by royalty and you may nonetheless get a way of the unique grandeur.
Strolling the partitions across the within the preserve to get some unimaginable views.
You’re additionally near Nationwide Belief property Lanhydrock, in the direction of Bodmin, the place you’ll be able to discover Victorian life together with a take a look at the servants’ quarters and kitchens.
Different household points of interest in south east Cornwall
No listing of issues to do in Cornwall with children could be full and not using a point out of the Eden Venture – with its iconic biomes, you’ll be able to step into the Mediterranean or the rainforest and it’s incredible to discover even with youthful children.
There are actions and extra to discover past the biomes as properly, though the indoor points of interest are excellent in case you’re visiting Cornwall within the rain with children.
Learn my assessment of a day on the Eden Venture with a toddler
Issues to do within the Isles of Scilly with children
Some of the stunning locations within the UK, the Isles of Scilly are merely magical – formally a part of Cornwall, they’re a spot aside the place you’ll be able to’t assist however chill out (particularly while you’re by seashores which might have come straight from the Caribbean).
Take a look at my information to the Isles of Scilly with children for extra concepts of issues to do, the very best seashores and the place to remain.
The place to remain in Cornwall for households
You’re spoiled for selection in relation to nice locations to remain in Cornwall with children – attempting to spherical up all of the choices could be worthy of a ebook, however I’ve picked out just a few highlights of lodging for Cornwall seaside holidays with children.
Self-catering in Cornwall
There are cottage corporations specialising in Cornwall alone, in addition to others with a tempting choose of self-catering lodging. Take a look at Sykes Cottages and holidaycottages.co.uk for some nice choices.
We additionally stayed at Gwel An Mor in certainly one of their luxurious lodges – they’ve numerous totally different sizes and magnificence which go well with households, and it’s excellent to discover the coast round St Ives.
Household accommodations in Cornwall
Cornwall can also be an excellent place in case you’re searching for family-friendly accommodations – sadly the Sands Lodge in Newquay, among the best accommodations with toddlers in Cornwall, has now closed.
On the other coast, we additionally stayed at St Michael’s resort in Falmouth – whereas it doesn’t have the identical choices for preschoolers, it was nonetheless very family-friendly.
Or you’ll be able to take a look at a number of the accommodations out there on reserving.com, together with ones with free cancellation in case of last-minute modifications to plans!
The very best household seashores in Cornwall
Should you’re searching for a vacation with countless possibilities to get out onto the sand, you’ll be in heaven – whittling down the very best seashores in Cornwall, even attempting to make a shortlist for the very best household seaside in Cornwall is difficult.
Relying whether or not you fancy browsing or rockpooling, stress-free within the solar or constructing sandcastles, mild paddling or discovering someplace to get pleasure from virtually alone, there’s a Cornish seaside to go well with.
So listed here are a few of my prime picks to start out off, together with six of my favorite seashores in Cornwall with children.
Scroll down for extra concepts on seaside actions for teenagers, my favorite seaside towels and exercise books.
Greatest seashores in north Cornwall
There are some nice seashores round Bude – Summerleaze seaside has a sea pool with shallow water that’s nice for youthful swimmers.
At low tide, you could find rockpools in Widemouth Bay, in addition to an extended open stretch of sand, with a part of the seaside dog-friendly year-round. For extra rockpooling, head to Crooklets seaside.
Or additional nonetheless down the coast at Padstow, Harlyn Bay seaside is one other lengthy open sandy seaside with some rockpools, whereas Porthcothan Bay has dunes on the again in case you tire of the sand. Each are dog-friendly year-round.
Dunes line Daymer Bay seaside too, one other dog-friendly choice, plus there are mermaid legends to inform – the sand bar was supposedly created by one in revenge within the legend of Doom Bar.
Bedruthan Steps was one other dramatic favorite with its personal legend – the granite rocks on the seaside have been as soon as the stepping stones for the enormous Bedruthan – however it’s presently closed after a rock fall.
Greatest Newquay seashores
The coast round Newquay has a few of Cornwall’s finest recognized seashores – from Towan seaside within the city itself with its golden sand, to Porth seaside which is sweet in case you’re trying to swim.
I like the dunes of Crantock as properly and broad open Holywell Bay, or the two-mile stretch of sand at Watergate Bay.
For youthful children, sheltered Mawgan Porth is a superb spot with a lot of golden sand and Lusty Glaze can also be protected by excessive cliffs.
Should you fancy a extra energetic time by the waves, the surf of Fistral seaside is known, whereas Tolcarne seaside is sweet for household browsing and boogie boarding, in addition to swimming. There are additionally rock swimming pools at low tide.
Nice Western seaside is one other Newquay seaside that’s good for households, in addition to surfers, with its personal rock swimming pools at low tide – it has picked up a Blue Flag awards prior to now.
For the very best dog-friendly seashores in Newquay, take a look at this listing.
The very best St Ives seashores
You barely want to go away St Ives itself for stunning seashores – Porthmeor seaside is a incredible one for households, with lengthy stretches of golden sand, an excellent surf college with classes for teenagers, and a stunning cafe too.
Porthminster Seashore is one other favorite for households in St Ives, particularly with youthful children, as you’ll be able to paddle at low tide. Porthgwidden Seashore is smaller however has some enjoyable rocks to climb on in addition to extra sand for sandcastles.
Simply up the coast, Carbis Bay seaside has gained a Blue Flag award and has some pretty protected bathing off the golden sands. Or Hayle Towans seaside is nice in case you’re trying to escape the crowds – stroll by the dunes and spot the sand yachts and equipment buggies taking advantage of the winds off the ocean.
There are fewer dog-friendly seashores in St Ives in case you’re visiting through the summer season months – examine the restrictions and people which do permit canine.
Greatest seashores close to Penzance
Should you’re staying south of St Ives and exploring round Land’s Finish and Penzance, Porthcurno seaside is without doubt one of the most eye-catching in Cornwall, with views as much as the Minack Theatre.
For extra nice views, Marazion seaside appears to be like out to St Michael’s Mount – deservedly successful awards for its loveliness. Or in case you’re after surf, Sennen Cove seaside is probably the most westerly surf spot within the nation.
Discover extra dog-friendly seashores close to Penzance right here.
Greatest seashores in south Cornwall
A brief stroll from the city centre, Gyllyngvase seaside – or Gylly seaside – is ideal for households searching for the very best seaside in Falmouth, with a lot of golden sand and numerous actions. It’s additionally dog-friendly.
Or head somewhat means additional to Swanpool seaside, on the sting of the character reserve, the place you can too rent kayaks or take a look at the loopy golf close by.
Additional north up the Roseland Heritage coast, Carne seaside is gorgeous for swimming with its broad sheltered bay.
Greatest seashores in south east Cornwall
On Cornwall’s south coast, you’ll discover extra attractive seashores inside simple attain of Mevagissey, Fowey and Polperro, in addition to St Austell.
Porthpean seaside has some pretty stretches of sand and it’s common with households, though it may be steep taking place for youthful children. Pentewan Seashore and Gorran Haven seaside close to Mevagissey are each good sandy spots with children as properly.
Canine are allowed on Gorran Haven seaside however should be stored on a lead.
For watersports, attempt Polkerris seaside or if you wish to get away from different sunseekers, unspoiled Lantic Bay is good – it’s fairly a stroll down although.
Greatest rockpooling in Cornwall
Take a look at the seashores above as there are some nice choices to combine rockpooling and sunbathing throughout Cornwall, together with Carne Seashore on the Roseland coast, Crooklets seaside close to Bude and Harlyn Bay close to Padstow
But when it’s discovering sea creatures that you simply’re most fascinated by, right here is a number of the finest Cornwall rockpooling: look out for crabs and lobsters among the many winkles and anemones, to not point out pipefish, prawns and cushion stars – tiny seastars.
Treyarnon Bay, simply south of Padstow has some big rock swimming pools at low tide or Hannafore Seashore at West Looe is one other haven for rock swimming pools – you’ll be able to entry them by way of a concrete path too.
At Falmouth, Fort Seashore is the very best spot for rockpooling, though you gained’t discover a lot sand. And down on the Lizard, Kennack Sands is one other good place to find Cornwall’s marine life – in case your children are captivated, it’s additionally a well-liked spot for scuba diving!
As ever, don’t contact the creatures within the swimming pools and in case you transfer stones, at all times change them afterwards.
Planning a visit to Cornwall for households
Except you’re native, there’s no likelihood of visiting Cornwall and not using a automobile journey to succeed in your vacation spot – about the one downside for me!
For some extra of my finest motorway stop-offs within the UK, take a look at this publish: there’s additionally lots to find on the way in which with concepts in my final information to Devon, in addition to choices in case you’re travelling alongside the Nice West Means, to not point out historic homes resembling Stourhead in Wiltshire, a mini metropolis break in Salisbury and Stonehenge.
Should you’re searching for methods to outlive the highway journey with children, these are my prime concepts on how you can entertain them alongside the way in which, in addition to how you can make the journey go extra easily.
In the event that they don’t get automobile sick, take a look at the pocket sized I Spy books which embody I Spy on a automobile journey to maintain them occupied through the drive.
Audiobooks are one other favorite of ours, and are best if studying or observing tablets does trigger automobile illness. We’re signed as much as Audible which has an incredible vary of child-friendly audio books, together with the Harry Potter collection and How To Prepare Your Dragon, however this assortment of Roald Dahl audiobooks on CD is one other nice purchase, as is the entire Paddington assortment.
Don’t neglect your bucket, spade and internet too – though there’s extra to sandcastles and rockpooling with these concepts of seaside actions for teenagers too.
You’ll be able to see a few of my different journey necessities to pack, together with my favorite hammam towels and SPF, on this listing, in addition to this I Spy on the Seaside ebook and an I Spy on the Seaside exercise ebook.
Cornwall information books to purchase
Footprint guides has a ebook of concepts for Cornwall with children whereas this Wild Information: Devon, Cornwall and the South West has nice strategies to seek out the much less explored facet of the nation.
For extra methods to get outside, Cornwall – 40 Coast and Nation Walks consists of the whole lot from simple strolls to more difficult hikes. Or there are 50 concepts of buggy-friendly walks throughout the UK in Lovely Buggy Walks which is good for visiting Cornwall with a child or toddler.
Discover much more recommendations on issues to do in Cornwall with children in Lonely Planet’s Devon and Cornwall information or the Tough Information to Devon and Cornwall
And in case you are combining a visit to Cornwall with a go to to neighbouring Devon, listed here are my prime 30 issues to do in Devon with children, in addition to free issues to do in Devon and concepts of what to do in Devon within the rain.
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*First printed 2020, final up to date 2024*
PIN FOR LATER: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CORNWALL FOR FAMILIES
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