Cornwall is a captivating county located in the far southwest of England. With its rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, quaint fishing villages and lush countryside, it’s easy to see why Cornwall is one of the most popular destinations in the UK.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the very best attractions, activities and destinations that Cornwall has to offer. From historic houses and tranquil gardens to family-friendly theme parks and adrenaline-pumping adventures – there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of the country.
Ready to start planning your Cornish adventure? Let’s dive in!
Wildlife Attractions
Get up close with amazing animals and support conservation at Cornwall’s wildlife attractions. Here are some of the best:
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Located near the beautiful Helford River in Gweek, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary provides a forever home to seal pups and other animals needing specialist care. Watch the team rehabilitate and release rescued seal pups, learn about marine conservation, and meet the resident seals, sea lions and penguins. With woodland walks and a café onsite, it makes a great family day out.
National Lobster Hatchery
Discover the fascinating work this Padstow conservation charity does to protect fragile lobster populations. Get hands-on in the Touch Tank, see pregnant lobster moms, giant lobsters and more. You can even adopt your own lobster baby through their innovative ‘Raise and Release’ programme and track its journey back to the ocean.
Newquay Zoo
Owned by the conservation charity Wild Planet Trust, Newquay Zoo is home to over 130 rare and endangered species. Meet everything from critically endangered Javan green magpies to giant anteaters, meerkats, sloths and red pandas. With play areas for kids, daily talks and feeding times, Newquay Zoo makes for a fun and educational day out.
Paradise Park & JungleBarn
This wildlife sanctuary in Hayle is home to over 1200 birds from across the world, as well as red pandas, squirrels and otters. Kids will love the ‘JungleBarn’ indoor play centre, with giant slides and soft play areas. Outside, see flying displays, feed the birds and interact with mini donkeys, goats and more. Entry fees support the preservation of endangered birds and their habitats.
Screech Owl Sanctuary
Nestled on the edge of Goss Moor, this rescue and rehabilitation centre is home to around 100 owls and birds of prey. Meet the residents, watch flying displays, and learn about the centre’s important conservation work. You can also visit their meerkats, raccoons, alpacas and wallabies, and kids will enjoy the outdoor playground. A great ethical wildlife experience.
Historic Houses & Tranquil Gardens
With roots stretching back centuries, Cornwall’s gardens and country estates provide perfect days out packed with horticultural wonders, fascinating history and architectural treasures.
Glendurgan Garden
These enchanting subtropical gardens near Falmouth feature exotic flowers, majestic trees and tranquil streams. The gardens roll down a sheltered valley to a secluded hamlet on the Helford River, where you’ll find a shingle beach – perfect for relaxation. Don’t miss the 180 year old hedge maze! Entry fees support continued preservation of this magical garden.
St Michael’s Mount
Accessible by foot at low tide or boat at high tide, the island of St Michael’s Mount gives you a glimpse into over 1000 years of history. Explore the medieval church and castle, subtropical gardens and charming village. It’s a must-see for any history buff! Advance booking is essential.
Trerice
Travel back in time at this exquisite Elizabethan manor house. With elaborate gables and a magnificent great hall, it’s an architectural gem. Outside, find formal terraces, a kayling lawn and orchards. Entry fees help the National Trust preserve this historic home and garden.
Lanhydrock
Lanhydrock gives an amazing look into Victorian high society. The opulent family areas and state-of-the-art kitchen contrast the cramped staff quarters ‘below stairs’. Outside, find formal gardens and miles of walking trails to explore.
Cotehele
Dating back to the medieval era, atmospheric Cotehele overlooks the River Tamar. See original tapestries, armour and furniture within the Tudor house. Outside, wander through formal terraces and a tranquil valley garden leading to a quay on the river. Entry fees go towards continued restoration and preservation.
Pencarrow House & Gardens
Explore this stately home still owned by the original Molesworth-St Aubyn family after 500 years! Find 50 acres of gardens with exotic plants and trees. Kids will love exploring the grotto, Iron Age hill fort, Victorian lake and gigantic rock garden.
Trebah Garden
At this subtropical paradise near Falmouth, winding paths lead through exotic blooms down to a secluded beach on the Helford River. Relaxation and family adventures blend seamlessly together in this magical 26 acre garden. Advance booking online is essential.
Attractions & Theme Parks
From steam railways and stately homes to cutting edge attractions, Cornwall offers entertainment options the whole family will love.
Bodmin Jail
Take a walk on the dark side at this immersive world-class attraction. Brave the ominous ‘Dark Walk’ where perceptions blur between past and present. Join a heritage tour, chat with costumed characters and discover Cornwall’s grimmest stories. Advance booking recommended.
Bodmin & Wenford Railway
All aboard for a nostalgic trip back in time on this heritage steam railway. Carriage rides, cream teas, dining experiences and even murder mystery evenings provide fun for all ages. Check the timetable online and book tickets in advance.
Newquay Zoo
With over 130 species, Newquay Zoo offers families a chance to see rare and endangered species up close. Kids will love the play areas, feeding times and daily talks.
Flambards Theme Park
This hugely popular theme park in Helston offers rides, play zones and attractions for all ages. Feel the rush on Britain’s oldest rollercoaster, before admiring life-sized Victorian streets. Book online before visiting for discounted entry.
Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm
Discover the process of producing delicious Cornish cider at this working farm. Sample the cyders and liqueurs, see the distillery, learn traditional production methods and meet the farm animals. Something for all the family!
Dairyland Farm World
Fun around every corner awaits at this family attraction near Newquay. Bottle feed kid goats, ride ponies, explore play barns and outdoor play equipment. Learn about farming history in their museum and refuel at the Cow Shed Café.
Lappa Valley
Perfect for young families, Lappa Valley offers gentle steam train and boat rides, crazy golf, and outdoor play spaces. Kids can meet chickens, sheep and other animals in the Mini Farm before burning off energy in vast indoor play barns.
Eden Project
These gigantic geodesic biomes house artificially created rainforest and Mediterranean environments, with exotic plants and crops. Outside, explore gardens with tea and vine crops, plus play areas. Advance booking is essential for this famous eco-attraction.
Pendennis Castle
Kids will love letting their imagination run wild at this atmospheric coastal fortress. Try on armour, explore WW2 rooms, take in the sea views, and don’t miss the historic gun firings! Enjoy a meal in the cafe after working up an appetite.
Camel Creek Adventure Park
Voted in the UK’s top ten theme parks, Camel Creek offers adrenaline-pumping rides and family fun. Meet animals like meerkats and owls, try the terrifying drop rides, or gently trundle along on the Go Karts. Discounted online booking available.
Arts & Culture
Discover Cornwall’s captivating history and artistic legacy by visiting these cultural attractions:
Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Discover the intriguing world of shipwrecks at this Charlestown museum. Meet divers, see recovered treasure and artefacts, and explore the fascinating stories behind wrecks on Cornwall’s treacherous coastline.
Geevor Tin Mine
Go underground at this genuine tin mine, for a realistic glimpse into the working life of Cornish miners. Explore the surface buildings, see mining machinery and head 300 feet into the 18th century mine. An unforgettable experience.
The Minack Theatre
Watching a performance at this clifftop theatre is an utterly unique experience. Carved into the cliffs above Porthcurno, the setting provides jaw-dropping views. Enjoy open air theatre from March to October.
Tate St Ives
See iconic works by famous British artists like Barbara Hepworth and Patrick Heron at the Tate’s St Ives outpost. Set overlooking the beach, the ever-changing exhibitions blend seamlessly with the seaside setting.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Discover Cornwall’s deep connection with the sea at this fascinating Falmouth museum. Learn about sailing, see boatbuilding in action, and explore hands-on exhibits.
St Michael’s Mount
The iconic island village of St Michael’s Mount has over 1000 years of history. Explore the medieval church and castle, subtropical gardens and charming village. Time your visit around low tide to walk across.
Pendennis Castle
Kids and history buffs will adore this dramatic clifftop castle overlooking Falmouth. Try on armour, explore the WW2 and WW1 rooms and take in sweeping coastal views.
Spectacular Beaches & Coastlines
With over 400 miles of captivating shoreline, some of Cornwall’s top attractions are its beautiful beaches and coastal scenery. Here are some highlights:
Porthcurno Beach
This gently shelving sandy beach sits in the shadow of the famous Minack Theatre’s cliffs. Great facilities, excellent swimming and spectacular scenery make this a favourite.
Gwithian & Godrevy Towans
Miles of golden sands backed by rolling dunes await at this National Trust site near Hayle. The area offers surfing, walking trails and the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse.
Porthminster Beach, St Ives
Spend a day relaxing on the soft golden sands of this sheltered family-friendly beach in St Ives. Excellent facilities and restaurants within easy reach.
Kynance Cove
Sheer granite cliffs encase this picture-perfect sandy cove on the Lizard Peninsula. Rockpool at low tide or relax on the sands and soak up the stunning surroundings.
Polzeath Beach
With excellent surfing, beautiful scenery and laid-back vibes, Polzeath is a perfect beach hangout. Beach cafes and restaurants offer sustenance after a day on the waves.
Porthcothan Bay
Dramatic cliffs overlook soft sands at this north coast beauty spot. Enjoy swimming, walking and surfing before refuelling at the excellent beachside café.
Watergate Bay
With 2 miles of pristine sand, Watergate Bay caters brilliantly to families. Try surfing lessons before relaxing at one of the restaurants located nex to the beach.
Experience the best of Cornwall’s beaches, heritage, food, gardens and attractions on your next visit. Let your imagination wander along the rugged coastlines, sample a cream tea on a CATA member attraction’s sunny terrace or feel the adrenaline rush at an outdoor adventure park.
With so many amazing places to explore, the main challenge will be fitting everything in! Use this guide as a starting point, then delve deeper into the stories behind each destination when planning your perfect Cornish holiday.
