What Are The Best Sanctuaries in Cornwall?
Sanctuaries In Cornwall
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
One of the most highly rated sanctuaries in Cornwall is this adorable seal sanctuary titled: ‘The Sea Life Trust’ and is located near the very bottom of Cornwall.
Opening in 1975, their long-term mission has always been to rescue as many seals as possible. They rehabilitate and treat injured seals including around 70 grey seal pups from around the Cornish Coastline every season! Here, you can see many variants of seals from cute grey seal pups, to the adult sea lion, otters and even some penguins. Just alone you would be on the website’s gallery scrolling through the adorable pictures of the sea animals, so what an experience it would be to go there and visit?!
Contact
Website (Can Be Booked Online) Email Telephone: 01326 221 361 Address: The Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Cornwall, Gweek, TR12 6UGWingz Bird & Animal Sanctuary
The ‘Wingz Bird & Animal Sanctuary’ is another great safe haven to venture off and see the beauty of the huge variety of animals. They care for many animals from cranes to meerkats, and marmosets to playful cockatoos here is a great attraction to see, and is highly recommended to visit this sanctuary!
Contact
Website (No Online Booking) Email Telephone: 01726 825222 Address: Moorlands Farm Treesmill, Cornwall, Par, PL24 2TXBlue Reef Aquarium
Going back to the Marine types of animals, the Blue Reef Aquarium offers a stunning tropical aquatic view of various sea life animals located on the Cornish Coastline of Cornwall. With over 40 breeds of aquatic life, it brings many of the five senses to help you become part of the environment. With regular feeding displays, it brings many forms of entertainment turning the day into a fascinating one.
Contact
Website (Can Be Booked Online) Email Telephone: 01637 878134 Address: Towan Promenade, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1DUWild Futures Monkey Sanctuary
Formed in 1964, Wild Futures brings a wild experience to those who wish to visit such a sanctuary. Right at the south Cornish coast in Cornwall is where Wild Futures care for a range of different variants and species of rescued and retired monkeys. Come take a gentle stroll around the stunning gardens and allow your kids to burn off some steam with the kid’s wild play area!
Contact
Website (Can Be Booked Online) Email Telephone: 01503 262532 Address: Murrayton House St Martins, Looe, Cornwall, PL13 1NZThe National Lobster Hatchery
Head to The National Lobster Hatchery now to see what the lobsters are like at the different stages of their life! If you’re in or planning to visit Cornwall, then why not head to the Lobster Hatchery and observe the award-winning visitor centre. Based in Padstow and for a cheap entrance fee, you are given the opportunity to learn all about the lobsters and also surrounding marine life! This registered charity has the goal to help support the vulnerable lobster population and protect them from some fishers.
Contact
Website (No Online Booking) Email Telephone: 01841 533877 Address: National Lobster Hatchery, South Quay, Padstow, Cornwall, PL28 8BLGoDolphin - National Trust
GoDolphin is part of the national trust and has been open since 1909! With a lot of history behind its core, GoDolpin is known for its natural beauty. It’s worth heading here for a great day out to breathe it’s Lucious air and river and to travel back to the 16th-century gardens, the most important historic gardens actually. That’s not all, you can even immerse yourself within the untouched woodland and visit the houses that were considered ‘fashionable’ in the 17th century.
Contact
Website (No Online Booking) Email Telephone: 01736 763194 Address: GoDolphin Cross, Helston, Cornwall, TR13 9RE That’s our top list of sanctuary’s that we highly recommend visiting in Cornwall! We hope from this you can make an informed decision on which ones you would want to visit on your adventure’s.A Guide to Cornwall’s Nature Reserves
Cornwall Nature Reserves
The beautiful county of Cornwall on the southwestern tip of the UK is best known for its stunning coastline, natural environment and its rugged moors. Cornwall holiday beach chalets provide the ideal accommodation for you and your family to explore this jewel in the UK’s crown. Yet Cornwall is a wildlife haven too with many nature reserves to explore amid picturesque and tranquil settings.Kemyel Crease
Located south of the village of Mousehole, in an area of outstanding natural beauty this conifer plantation slopes down to the sea offering pleasant shade. Read moreCaer Bran
An old iron age hill fort near St Just in West Cornwall, this reserve attracts various bird species, including hen harriers, short-eared owls and skylarks. Read moreBakers Pit
An area of heathland between St Ives and Penzance, a flooded clay pit provides a unique habitat for visiting birdlife throughout the year. Read moreBosvenning Common
A lowland heath in West Cornwall with spectacular views over the surrounding area, emblazoned in summer by pink and purple heather, plus yellow gorse. Read moreBostraze
Enjoy the dawn chorus in this large wetland area where cuckoos are still regular visitors, the valley having once been known as ‘Cuckoo Valley’. Read moreChun Downs
Located near Pendeen, Chun Downs is predominantly heathland crossed with bridlepaths for walkers, with stunning views across the surrounding landscape and down to the sea. Read moreSt Erth Pits
Cornwall’s first geological reserve, woodland and wildlife have reclaimed this former China clay pit containing a rich fossil fauna, offering a circular trail to explore. Read morePendarves Wood
With 40 acres of woodland and a lake, this reserve provides a great habitat for a variety of wildlife, while in April the floor becomes carpeted in bluebells. Read moreLoggan's Moor
A meadow with some reedbed located outside Hayle, Loggan’s Moor is a haven for many species who thrive on the wildflowers which grow in abundance. Read moreUptown Towans
Upton Towans is an area comprised of sand dunes crossed by paths, offering spectacular views across St Ives Bay, including across to Godrevy Island. Read moreSwanvale
A small woodland near Falmouth offering a sheltered wildlife habitat and close to Swanpool nature reserve and Swanpool beach. Read moreKennal Vale
Gorgeous woodlands with open glades near Ponsanooth, packed with history, rushing streams and a water-filled quarry offering an abundance of birdlife plus pipistrelle bats. Read moreDevichoys Wood
A forty-acre ancient woodland which can be traced back to the 17th century, where great spotted woodpeckers are among the abundant wildlife to be seen. Read moreBissoe Valley
A former mining site near Truro where heathland, woodland and ponds have been developed through conversation efforts and is home to the scarce blue-tailed damselfly. Read moreHalbullock Moor
Located near Truro, this ancient grazing ground is an important habitat for wildlife with willow warblers prominent in the breeding season, while Cornish Moneywort grows here too. Read moreFox Corner
A quiet urban reserve near Truro, once a railway siding whose mix of grassland, scrub and ponds provide a habitat for local wildlife including foxes. Read morePark Hoskyn (The Hayman Reserve)
Located in a steep-sided valley near Penwartha, a fast-flowing stream cuts through woodland which houses a variety of birdlife including treecreepers. Read moreNansmellyn Marsh
A rare untouched reedbed near Perranporth with marked paths and boardwalks for visitors who will be treated to many bird varieties amid the Common Reed. Read moreCarn Moor
Heathland near Goonhavern, once a lead ore mining site with the engine house still visible but now home to the fragrant bog myrtle and more. Read moreVentongimps Moor
Twenty acres of heath, bog and woodland near Zelah, known for its Dorset Heath and dragonflies, with a pond formed from the excavation of a WWII bomber. Read moreChyverton
Flower-rich meadows and a woodland site near Truro supporting numerous species including Dorset Heath and the southern marsh orchid, plus habitat-rich ancient Cornish hedges. Read moreFal-Ruan
Set within the Fal Estuary on the Roseland Peninsula, oaks run down to meet tidal waters to create a rich ecosystem, though the exposed mudflats should be avoided. Read moreWhat Makes Cornwall Unique Compared to the Rest of England?


What Is Our Favourite Place In Cornwall?
You really should visit Cornwall!
There are many wonderful and amazing things to see in Cornwall. Because there are so many places and sights to see it can be hard to fit them all into one visit. Because of this, we have decided on our favourite place in Cornwall as well as a few runners up to give you a place to start on your first time or if you are returning for another holiday.Runners Up
Sennen Cove
Just down the hill from the town of Sennen is a beautiful cove with views full of sea and sunshine. This is also one of the most popular surf hotspots as the cove is known for its large waves and beautiful waters. The beach is great for bathing and there are flagged areas which move frequently to follow tidal movements so that you know where it is safe at all times. If you are more inclined to see the incredible views this cove has to offer you can head to the Pedn-men-du, a promontory located at the southern end of the bay, and use the lookout point. You will see spectacularly blue waters and clear skies for miles around. The granite cliffs below are also a popular attraction for those that enjoy climbing.Praa Sands
The first thing you’ll notice when visiting this beautiful beach is how white the sand is, it’s almost blinding! The reason the sand is so white is because it is made from seashells that have been pulverised by the waves over millions of years. Located between the Lizard and west Penwith, this mile-long beach is perfect for families with children to entertain. The sand is perfect for sand castles and the shoreline is great for splashing around in.
This is another great spot for surfing too as there are some surprisingly large waves that form further out. If this isn’t your scene there’s no need to worry as you could just grab a coffee and sit back on the beach soaking up the sun.
Roskilly’s Ice Cream
This quaint little farm is located in St. Keverne and is a great place to visit whether you have children or just love ice cream. You can visit the farm for free, that’s right free! You can walk around the meadows and relax by the ponds with a tub of fresh and organic ice cream that is made on site. You can even visit the cows that make the milk and see how it’s done yourself. A great place to let your children roam and explore while enjoying some of the best ice cream in Cornwall.Minack Theatre
This is Cornwall’s world famous open-air theatre which is carved right into the granite cliff of Porthcurno Bay. This stunning and incredible feat of ingenuity looks like something straight out of a movie and overlooks the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. The Summer season runs from May to September and includes drama, musicals and opera so make sure to visit during this time so that you don’t miss out. If the theatre isn’t your thing, you can always visit the sub-tropical gardens that are another favourite attraction at this incredible location. They grow on the open cliffside and provide a beautiful dash of colour to the Minack all year round. Another thing to look out for is the Rowena Cade Visitor Centre which tells the incredible story of how a girl from Cheltenham in the Victorian era grew up to build the internationally famous theatre. There’s even a café where you can relax and soak in the amazing views that Minack has to offer.Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno, which is located in the far west of Cornwall, is described by many as being an absolute paradise. The area has won plenty of awards and if you visit this area it’s easy to see why. The sea turns a beautiful shade of turquoise in the sun and the sand is pearly white and soft to the touch. The incredible high cliffs on either side provide shelter to everyone enjoying the beach. The beach is very popular with families and has a stream that flows down one side where children can enjoy paddling while being safely watched over. Above on the cliffs is the amazing Minack Theatre, see above for more information, which gives an incredible view of Porthcurno and the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is also dog friendly, unless you visit between the 1st of May and 30th of September when there is a seasonal ban, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for an adventure.
Just a 30 minute walk away is the famous Logan Rock which is an 80 ton granite rocking stone. Also close by is the fascinating Porthcurno Telegraph Museum which tells the story of how Cornwall played an important role in the pioneering days of global communications.
Trebah Gardens
This beautiful sub-tropical ravine garden spans over 25 acres of wooded area and descends down to its own beach located on the Helford River. There is a natural spring at the top of the garden that drops into a Koi Pool surrounded by breathtaking colourful waterside plantings. A mixture of plants from the Mediterranean and southern hemisphere can be found here alongside Trebah’s grove which is full of huge Australian tree palms and ferns. There are also huge patches of bamboo and gunnera which give the garden a sense exotic wilderness. It has been rated as one of the best 80 gardens in the world! There is also an award winning Visitor Centre which houses a Mediterranean-style restaurant, terrace, plant and gift shop.Porthleven
Porthleven is the most southerly working port in the entire United Kingdom. It has to offer some amazing views and an interesting granite harbour with plenty of buildings to explore and visit. The sea walls are huge and face south west into the prevailing wind making it a popular place for people to visit during the winter. Many come to watch the storms that cause huge waves which crash against the sea defences that are in place. This area has been inhabited for over a 1,000 years but the fishing village that is located here was started back in 1811 when the harbour first began construction. This place is very popular due to its location as it is close to many of Cornwall’s theme parks and attractions. The village is home to several restaurants, its world famous clock tower, a pier and a pretty little beach. It is always a great atmosphere and is a nod to the old world as it hasn’t been ruined by progress.Gwithian Towans Beach
Gwithian Towans is always full of kites blowing in the wind and avid windsurfers riding their water blokarts. There are plenty of sand dunes with wild grass to lie on and relax while you watch all the commotion. When the tide is out, there is plenty of sand to play in and large rock pools and caves which are great for the little ones to explore.This beach is another popular surf spot as there is a constant flow of waves for people to catch and the ocean provides good all year round conditions. Seals are a regular sight near the beach as well as large colonies of seabirds due to the area being a breeding ground for guillemots, cormorants, razorbills and more. There is also a nice little café and bar, The Sunset Surf, which overlooks the beach and is open all year. They serve locally sourced and seasonal ingredients whenever it is possible for them to do so. Just a short walk away is the Jam Pot Café and Shop which is a former 19th century coastguard lookout. Here you can enjoy home cooked snacks and look out at the stunning natural views of St. Ives Bay.Our Number One Favourite Spot
St. Michael’s Mount
Visit this fantastic island and you’ll see why we chose it for our number one spot. You can walk across the granite causeway and follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and, as legend has it, the mythical giant. All you have to do is hop onto a boat and travel to this sub-tropical island where you will discover a historical sights such as a medieval castle, a fortress, priory, harbour and home.
You can stray from the mainland on foot or by boat to get up close and personal to the castle-topped island that is standing tall in Mount’s Bay. Come with the family or take a tour of the castle and gardens by yourself, either way you will have a magical time exploring all the sights.
You can climb the castle turrets, straight out of an old movie, for amazing views and listen to live music on the greenery of the village that is close by. If you fancy a bite to eat, travel to the Island Café or the Sail Loft Restaurant which both serve fresh local food.
Visit the sub-tropical gardens which can be found clinging to the granite slopes, the terraced beds of the gardens travel all the way down to the edge of the ocean and boast many exotic plants from places such as the Canary Islands, South Africa and Mexico.
Planning For The Summer Holidays
Summer Holidays
Summer may seem a long way off and the weather outside is certainly not swimsuit grade yet. Nevertheless, it is never too early to start planning and what better to cheer you up than getting the holiday booked and out of the way? After all, you’ve been working hard and you deserve the perfect holiday for you and your family. Make sure that you get everything sorted and there are no hiccups! Here are a few tips that will help you plan for the best time to suit everyone.Location
The first thing you’ll want to establish is exactly where you want to go and what you want to do. Focusing on the latter, your location should be based on what exactly you want to do on your holiday, giving your plans a structure. This avoids you just showing up and realising there is nothing there that interests you. For example, you wouldn’t go to Spain if you wanted to ski, so make sure that everyone is on board and the activities that you want to complete are going to be provided in the area. Another important aspect of choosing the location of your holiday is where you want to be staying there. You should look at hotels that are relatively close to everything you want to do while on holiday, so there is no unnecessarily long road trips or walks to waste your time instead of enjoying yourself. Sometimes you can’t have everything though, so make sure that you have travel plans and know the best routes and methods of getting to locations beforehand.Reservations
What’s worse than travelling all the way to say, a nice restaurant and then being turned down because you didn’t make a reservation? That’s correct! Finding out that the hotel you had your heart set on has no more room because you didn’t plan ahead in time and reserve yourself a spot. If this does happen you’ll find that all your other plans may be affected as you might have to find somewhere further away or in an entirely different town. This can be a real shame and can bring on the holiday blues, so try to avoid this by simply giving yourself plenty of time not to worry and book your hotel as soon as possible. You should also consider any transport you might need to take, whether it’d be renting a car or travelling publicly via plane/coach/boat, and is well booked in advance. Nothing ruins a holiday faster than not being able to get there or do any of the activities. Don’t leave booking transport till last minute, as if you have paid for everything else not only do you not get to have your holiday, but you lose out on all the money you’ve spent.Activities
As mentioned earlier, you should make sure that the area you are visiting includes the activities you want to complete, and it should be easy to organise it around your time.
The activities you do should be more than one-sided. This is so that you are getting the most of the summer fun out of your holiday and enjoy more time with the family. For example, activities like bike riding are fun for the entire family, but they can be enjoyed along with going to the beach or can lead to the next activity. Activities should be enjoyable to both adults and children, especially during the school holidays within summer!
You should consider flexibility when booking activities, alongside having backups in place just in case anything happens that could cause plans to change. Things like what the weather is going to be like and how bad the traffic is going to be are not always predictable.
Problems can occur, so having plans in place that are flexible can help you to avoid being stuck doing nothing. Not all activities may be for you and your family as well. Consider looking into a various range of activities that everyone will enjoy.
Insurance
This is especially important if travelling abroad! Not all countries have the privilege of free national health. You don’t want to add a bunch of hospital fees to your souvenir list!
Everyone is susceptible to getting ill, and this is especially true when on holiday as you may come across an illness your body is not used to. This alone can ruin the holiday let alone having no insurance and having to pay out of your own pocket.
Also, if you don’t have insurance, the likelihood of you being seen as soon as possible is very slim and you may end up having to stay there for a while. This affects the whole family and can lead to problems at home. This can vary from work-related dates to missing other important plans. Make sure you have good travel insurance and read between the lines so you aren’t left in the dust!
Travel insurance can literally be a lifesaver in some cases. There are some really nasty diseases out there and they are more likely to infect you, especially if it is your first time visiting a new location.
If you don’t have good travel insurance, you may get stuck in a hospital which may have low standards, alongside not receiving the best medical treatment possible. This can further delay going home and can lead to your problem getting worse. This is a terrible cycle leaving you with massive bills and even in rare cases can lead to permanent health problems. This is the last thing you need, so do the sensible thing and get your whole family insured on a good plan!
What are the best tourist attractions in Cornwall, UK?
Best attractions within Cornwall, UK
Lost Gardens of Heligan
This historic garden replenished itself after the first world war ended. In time, it has become one of the most incredible attractions within the UK, let alone in just Cornwall. The stunning views of its beauty make it a memorable experience.Contact:
Website: https://www.heligan.com/ Telephone: +44(0)1724 845100 Image Source: stives-cornwall.co.uk Location:The Minack Theatre
Based on the south-west coast of Cornwall, the Minack Theatre brings the previous generations back. The very same style Shakespeare had once performed in. This theatre brings in more than 100,000 people a year.
It can be rightfully said that this theatre is the UK’s most famous outdoor theatre. It can most certainly make you want to come back and experience its setting again and again.
Contact:
Website: https://www.minack.com/ Image Source: minack.com Telephone: +44(0)1736 810181 Email: [email protected] Location: The Minack Theatre Trust CIO, Porthcurno, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6JUTresco Abbey Gardens
The Tresco Abbey Gardens is just a boat trip away from Cornwall. This beautiful tropical garden has more than 20,000 plants across 80 different countries making the trip worth it. Established in the 19th century, means that it is full of history with the ruin remains of the Benedictine Abbey. The flowers here flourish with vibrant colours during spring so you won’t want to miss this stunning experience.
Contact:
Website: https://www.tresco.co.uk/enjoying/abbey-garden Image Source: tresco.co.uk Telephone: 01720 42108 Email: [email protected] Location: Tresco Isles of Scilly, England, TR24 0QQBarbara Hepworth Museum
Within St. Ives lies the Barbara Hepworth Museum, home to one of the greatest artwork and sculptures from across the world. It is said that the sculptures here span over from the 1920s.
Born in the early 1900s, Barbara from a young age began to develop this museum. Just from looking at the sculptures inside, you can see where all of her inspirations came from.
Contact:
Website: https://barbarahepworth.org.uk/st-ives/ Image Source: babarahepworth.org.uk Event Website: https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives/barbara-hepworth-museum-and-sculpture-garden Telephone: +441736 796226 Location: Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, Barnoon Hill, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 1ADTintagel Castle
The Tintagel Castle is located at the very north coast of Cornwall. You can find it surrounded by the rocky rugged coast home to the historic legend King Arthur.
Immerse yourself within its history and experience the vibrant beauty that surrounds the castle. The two separated cliffs have been united with a new footbridge. This allows you to immerse yourself at the heart of the Tintagel Castle. Image Source: english-heritage.org.uk
Contact:
Event Website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/ Telephone: +443703 331181 Location: Tintagel Castle, Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HESt Nectan’s Glen
Following up from the Tintagel Castle, right next to it is St Nectan’s Glen. You can visit here just after the Tintagel Castle on your day out.
Relax with a nice cream tea or coffee going through walk-in waterfalls and ancient woodland. You would never forget the colourful beauty that lies within. It’s diverse animal, bird and plant nature has even captured the attention of the SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest)!
Contact:
Website: https://www.st-nectansglen.co.uk/ Image Source: st-nectansglen.co.uk Telephone: 01840 779538 Email: [email protected] Location: St, Nectans Glen, Trethevy, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0BEKynance Cove
Welcome to one of the world’s most stunning beaches, here at Kynance Cove. This place has always been a magnet to tourists and once you visit, you will know why. The seas here overlaps a white sandy beach contrasting with the coloured rocks makes Kynance Cove a vibrant place to be.
Contact:
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kynance-cove Image Source: nationtrust.org.uk Telephone: 0344 800 1895 Email: [email protected] Location: Kynance Cove, Mullion, Cornwall, TR12 7PJLizard Point
At the most southern part of the British mainland, the Lizard Point is said to have a very distinctive feature. Looking down the peak, you can overlook one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.
Surrounded by the diversity of animal life is a bumpy landscape which is known as Lizard Point. From the name, you can tell that there is a history behind this point. When stood at the peak, you will taste the breeze of the Lizard Point and breathe its clean refreshing air.
Contact:
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lizard-point Image Source: nationaltrust.org.uk Telephone: +441326 222170 Email: [email protected] Location: Lizard Point, South West Coast Path, Helston, Cornwall, TR12 7NTThings to do on a Rainy Day in Cornwall
Rainy Days In Cornwall
Cornwall is a beautiful place perfect to go during the school holidays. While it has some amazing beaches and all sorts of things to do outside, the weather does not always stay sunny and is quite unpredictable as the rest of England. While this may be negative on some people’s plans, there are plenty of other things to do in Cornwall when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Here is a list of our favourite indoor places to enjoy in Cornwall so that holiday goers can still have as much fun as possible:
Eden Project, St. Austell
The Eden Project is one of the most famous attractions in Cornwall and for good reason. You can take an educational trip through the many environments and biomes to explore throughout the giant domes that make it so famous. Aside from all the different ecosystems that you can explore, there are many other activities to partake in such as visiting the ice rink during winter do some skating or even visiting the many indoor activities and exhibits that can be found in The Core. This is the perfect opportunity for a family day. You can even enjoy seasonal meals and delicious ice creams that are served there. There is even a tractor train that can take you up and down the quarry and leads directly to the entrance to the gift shop so you can buy some mementoes and knick-knacks to remember your trip by.Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
This incredible aquarium has a selection of over 40 natural sea habitats where you can discover all sorts of creatures and fish that are native to Cornish waters and even some tropical creatures from other parts of the world.
The aquarium includes some star attractions like the elusive jellyfish, terrifying sharks and everybody’s favourite - turtles! There is also a gift shop where you can take home souvenirs and the Blue Reef Café where you can get a bite to eat and something refreshing to drink. This is a great place to get an ocean experience if you do not want to get wet at the beach from bad weather. It is well worth a visit.
Porthcurno Telegraph Museum, Porthcurno
This peculiar place is home to what was once the largest telegraph station in the world! It was here since that the first undersea cable was laid all the way back in the late 18th century and is also home to historic tunnels used built during World War 2. You can explore many exhibits and follow quiz trails as you learn more and more about the incredible history of how Cornwall was at the centre of the communications revolution. You can also find out all the science behind telegraph communication and discover the people who came up with it all and changed the world forever. The best part is that it is only a stone’s throw away from Porthcurno beach so if the rain does stop you can go there for the rest of the day and enjoy the sun while you can.Carnglaze Caverns, St. Neot
These beautiful and unique caverns are an ideal attraction for when the weather is rough. A good mix of adventure and history can be found in these incredible and natural underground caverns which are located on the southern end of Bodmin Moor. Descend over 60m below the ground to explore the caverns and take a self-guided underground tour to escape the rain. Learn about the once former slate mine and find out about the miners and their daily routines. The tour finishes at an amazing underground lake full of beautiful clear waters that have a sensational green tint which allows for the perfect photos and memories.
Bodmin Jail, Bodmin
Bodmin Jail, an after-dark held event. Find out what life was like for prisoners behind bars and discover areas like the execution pit and the cells that they used to call ‘home’. This giant granite jail was built by the prisoners themselves and is an eerie sight to behold. Take a tour through six floors of this ancient building and experience what life was like for many Cornish wrongdoers back in the day all while staying dry and inside. This building is also said to be one of Cornwall’s most haunted so if you are brave enough to enter after dark, you can book a ghost tour or a seat for a scary movie night to remember.Jungle Jack’s, Newquay
Jungle Jack was created as a jungle barn intended to be a perfect play area for children of all ages and is a great place to spend a rainy day. ‘Full of fun’ activities and surroundings your little ones can enjoy exploring and making new friends all while keeping dry.
There are over 1,700 square feet of play frame to run around in and explore. With rope bridges, crawl tubes, slides and much more, there is something that everyone can enjoy here. There is even a dedicated baby and toddler soft play area, so even the really young ones can have a good time. If they could describe it, they would describe it as a paradise park made just for them.
There is even stuff for adults to do while their children are occupied. You can sit back and enjoy a nice cup of coffee and some cream teas in the well-stocked café which alongside this, also offers free WiFi. You can do this all while keeping an eye on your little ones as the area was specifically designed so that you can see all the areas and ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Things to do on a Rainy Day in Cornwall
Rainy Days In Cornwall
Cornwall is a beautiful place perfect to go during the school holidays. While it has some amazing beaches and all sorts of things to do outside, the weather does not always stay sunny and is quite unpredictable as the rest of England. While this may be negative on some people’s plans, there are plenty of other things to do in Cornwall when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Here is a list of our favourite indoor places to enjoy in Cornwall so that holiday goers can still have as much fun as possible:
Eden Project, St. Austell
The Eden Project is one of the most famous attractions in Cornwall and for good reason. You can take an educational trip through the many environments and biomes to explore throughout the giant domes that make it so famous. Aside from all the different ecosystems that you can explore, there are many other activities to partake in such as visiting the ice rink during winter do some skating or even visiting the many indoor activities and exhibits that can be found in The Core. This is the perfect opportunity for a family day. You can even enjoy seasonal meals and delicious ice creams that are served there. There is even a tractor train that can take you up and down the quarry and leads directly to the entrance to the gift shop so you can buy some mementoes and knick-knacks to remember your trip by.Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
This incredible aquarium has a selection of over 40 natural sea habitats where you can discover all sorts of creatures and fish that are native to Cornish waters and even some tropical creatures from other parts of the world.
The aquarium includes some star attractions like the elusive jellyfish, terrifying sharks and everybody’s favourite - turtles! There is also a gift shop where you can take home souvenirs and the Blue Reef Café where you can get a bite to eat and something refreshing to drink. This is a great place to get an ocean experience if you do not want to get wet at the beach from bad weather. It is well worth a visit.
Porthcurno Telegraph Museum, Porthcurno
This peculiar place is home to what was once the largest telegraph station in the world! It was here since that the first undersea cable was laid all the way back in the late 18th century and is also home to historic tunnels used built during World War 2. You can explore many exhibits and follow quiz trails as you learn more and more about the incredible history of how Cornwall was at the centre of the communications revolution. You can also find out all the science behind telegraph communication and discover the people who came up with it all and changed the world forever. The best part is that it is only a stone’s throw away from Porthcurno beach so if the rain does stop you can go there for the rest of the day and enjoy the sun while you can.Carnglaze Caverns, St. Neot
These beautiful and unique caverns are an ideal attraction for when the weather is rough. A good mix of adventure and history can be found in these incredible and natural underground caverns which are located on the southern end of Bodmin Moor. Descend over 60m below the ground to explore the caverns and take a self-guided underground tour to escape the rain. Learn about the once former slate mine and find out about the miners and their daily routines. The tour finishes at an amazing underground lake full of beautiful clear waters that have a sensational green tint which allows for the perfect photos and memories.
Bodmin Jail, Bodmin
Bodmin Jail, an after-dark held event. Find out what life was like for prisoners behind bars and discover areas like the execution pit and the cells that they used to call ‘home’. This giant granite jail was built by the prisoners themselves and is an eerie sight to behold. Take a tour through six floors of this ancient building and experience what life was like for many Cornish wrongdoers back in the day all while staying dry and inside. This building is also said to be one of Cornwall’s most haunted so if you are brave enough to enter after dark, you can book a ghost tour or a seat for a scary movie night to remember.Jungle Jack’s, Newquay
Jungle Jack was created as a jungle barn intended to be a perfect play area for children of all ages and is a great place to spend a rainy day. ‘Full of fun’ activities and surroundings your little ones can enjoy exploring and making new friends all while keeping dry.
There are over 1,700 square feet of play frame to run around in and explore. With rope bridges, crawl tubes, slides and much more, there is something that everyone can enjoy here. There is even a dedicated baby and toddler soft play area, so even the really young ones can have a good time. If they could describe it, they would describe it as a paradise park made just for them.
There is even stuff for adults to do while their children are occupied. You can sit back and enjoy a nice cup of coffee and some cream teas in the well-stocked café which alongside this, also offers free WiFi. You can do this all while keeping an eye on your little ones as the area was specifically designed so that you can see all the areas and ensure their safety and wellbeing.10 Beautiful Places in Cornwall
Must See Locations In Cornwall
Cornwall is a prime location for holidays in the UK as it is such a beautiful and elegant part of the country. There are so many locations to visit such as incredibly bright coastlines, historical towns and many activities to be had such as surfing. Cornwall is a must see place so if you are planning a visit, or are just curious; then read on to see 10 of the most beautiful places in Cornwall.Botallack Mine
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Botallack mine is a former tin mine that is located in between Penwith and Pendeen which are both villages in St. Just. These mines are long abandoned and are a beautiful piece of Cornish history and are a testament to Cornwall’s industrial past. This mining area was made even more famous after being featured in the 2015 series Poldark as the setting for Nampara House. The best thing about this attraction is that it is completely free so you can take a long 1.6km walk through the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site and discover the giant stone engine houses. After this, be sure to head on over to Botallack Count House which used to house the mine captains.The Camel Estuary
Credit: intocornwall.com
North Cornwall is home to the popular destination known as the Camel Estuary. This breathtaking area is full of beautiful scenic views such as luscious green fields and beautiful crystal waters. The Camel Estuary is also home to other incredible areas too such as Daymer Bay and the Rock of Polzeath which are both great places to see amazing views of the Cornish coast. You can walk or cycle through this incredible scenery and discover creeks, rivers and seren farmland all teeming with life and natural beauty.Newquay
Credit: cornwalllive.com
Newquay is considered the place to be in the UK if you want to surf. The patchy beaches along Cornwall’s coast that make up this area attracts many people who want to practice their surfing or just relax. Also, Crantock Beach is located just outside of the City Centre which is great for people who prefer a larger beach to just spend time with friends and family relaxing and sunbathing. Great Western Beach is another popular beach in the Newquay area and is home to many cafés for you to stop and get a bite to eat and a cuppa. Near this beach is also the Headland Hotel which overlooks yet another beach, Fistral Beach. This hotel is a stylish red brick Victorian building so it stands out among the rest and you won’t miss it.The Minack Theatre and Porthcurno Beach
Credit: whatstacydid.com
This area of Cornwall is located in the far west of Cornwall and is home to the Minack Theatre which is carved into the cliff above the scenic views and open air of Porthcurno Beach. This beach is also famous for being one of the UK’s most romantic beaches and has incredible views of the majestic Atlantic ocean.St. Loy
Credit: iwalkcornwall.co.uk
If you go towards the south west coast of Cornwall and you will discover a beautiful area full of valleys, boulders and beautiful sandy beaches. You can see all the incredible sights and beautiful Cornish coves by taking a 9km hike which follows the section of the South West Coast Path. This is convenient because the path finishes close to the Lamorna Cove Hotel which is located through some woodness and past some historical monuements. After that long of a hike there is no doubt you will want somewhere to sit, eat, rehydrate and sleep and there is no better place as Lamorna Cove Hotel. Also close by is the Logan Rock headland which is located over Lizard Point which is the UK’s most southerly tip.The Lizard and Kynance Cove
Credit: visitcornwall.com
As mentioned earlier, close to the Lamorna Cove Hotel and is the UK’s most southerly point. It is also an idyllic peninsula surrounded by farmland which contrasts with the beautifully aquamarine coloured Atlantic Ocean. There is no other area in Cornwall, or in fact the UK itself, that has such beautiful contrast between ocean and greenery. Located around this area are other natural beauties to be discoverd like Trebah Garden and the Helford River.Trevose Head
Credit: nationaltrust.org.uk
This is one of many locations in Cornwall which start with the letters ‘Tre’. These letters mean ‘homestead’ and this place is certainly a breathtaking one. Home to many amazing panoramic views all the way up the north coast of Cornwall. This area is also neighboured with the county of Devon. So if you feel that you want a change of scenery for a day then you could always head to Trevose Head for the views and then pop into Devon for the day. Trevose Head watches the sea between Newquay and Padstow and has been safely guiding fishermen and the likes to shore ever since 1847. More amazingly, the lighthouse is still active today and you can see the beams from up to 37km away!Eden Project
Credit: visitcornwall.com
This globally recognised attraction is an incredible sight to behold and is something straight out of a sci-fi movie. It is home to three giant domes each holding their own unique and wonderful biomes arising from the former clay pits that surrounds the site. The Eden Project is also the world’s largest indoor rainforest and is home to thousands of species of plants and animals. There are also a range of exhibits and events that are held here so there is entertainment for everyone.Bedruthan Steps
Credit: cornwallscottages.co.uk
In between Padstow and Newquay lie the Bedruthan Steps which are stone stacks that have been separated from the mainland over hundreds of years due to sea erosion. There is a local legend that a giant named ‘Bedruthan’ used these stones to make a shortcut across the bay for him to walk across. These steps are close by the south west coast path too so you can take a short walk and then relax at the Carnewas Tearoom which is the best angle to see the Bedruthan Steps.The Roseland
Credit: visitcornwall.com
This area in Cornwall is incredibly unspoilt and the views here are amazing. From beaches, rivers, woodland and countryside there is nothing here that won’t cease to amaze. There are also a handful of small villages located nearby which are St Mawes, St Just in Roseland and Portloe. You can also take a ferry or kayak down the river and discover areas of incredible beauty.Events this Month in Cornwall (November 2019)
Events this Month in Cornwall
There is always something happening in Cornwall as it is such a luxurious and beautiful area of the UK. Music, literature, arts & craft, food and drink and much more are in abundance in events at Cornwall. If you are thinking of visiting this incredible part of the country then check out what’s on this month to see if it peaks your interest. Soon enough, you’ll be joining the locals in celebration and be surrounded by an atmosphere of Cornish culture.Craft Workshops at Bedruthan Hotel
08/09/2019 - 28/11/2019
Credit: Visitcornwall.com
At this event you can learn from an expert tutor how to make something amazing. This craft workshop also offers a range of courses throughout the year for anybody wanting to learn the ways of the craftsmen. This event is located in Mawgan Porth on the North Coast of Cornwall.Creative Tensions Exhbibition
14/09/2019 - 16/11/2019
Credit: visitcornwall.com
This is the latest exhibition to be included at Penlee’s House located in Penzance in the West of Cornwall. This exhibit brings many different artists' works and puts them together to create a centre for art from the 20th century.Otobong Nkanga at Tate St. Ives
21/09/2019 - 05/01/2020
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Famous Nigerian-born artist Otobong Nkanga is to add new and existing works to the art gallery of Tate St Ives. St. Ives is a small town located in West Cornwall.Events at Carnglaze Caverns
28/09/2019 - 23/11/2019
Credit: visitcornwall.com
This event is on at Bodmin Moor + Tamar Valley and is set in the Carnglaze Caverns. At this event you will step deep down underground and experience live music like never before.Wood to Water by James Dodds
02/10/2019 - 01/09/2020
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Located on the South Coast of Cornwall in Falmouth, artist James Dodds will be showing off his work in his latest exhibition which is Wood to Water. James Dodds was inspired to do this work by the small boats that can be seen in the South West of Cornwall.Sterts Theatre Autumn
2019 03/10/2019 - 21/12/2019
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Head on down to Bodmin Moor + Tamar Valley in Liskeard to see what is going on at Sterts Theatre during the Autumn of 2019.70th Anniversary Exhibition
05/10/2019 - 02/11/2019
Credit: penwithgallery.com
This exhibition is made up of work that has been created since 1961 by key members of the the Penwith Society. It also looks at the impacts that these members have had on the art world. This event takes place in West Cornwall, St. Ives.The Woodfire Sessions
06/10/2019 - 22/12/2019
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Come to the West of Cornwall to experience some great food, refreshing drinks and listen to some live music. What better way to spend a Sunday?Ice Skating at the Eden Project
12/10/2019 - 23/02/2019
Credit: edenproject.com
The Eden Project, located on the South Coast of Cornwall in St. Austell, is once again opening up it’s ice rink. Everyone is welcome, from pros to beginners, to join in the fun.Halloweden
19/10/2019 - 03/11/2019
Credit: edenproject.com
Another even hosted at the Eden Project, that will be going for two weeks so there is plenty of time to attend. Welcome to a world of magical beasts and mythical creatures for you to discover on you Halloweden adventure.Halloween at Paradise Park
19/10/2019 - 03/11/2019
Credit: paradise-park.com
Located in the West of Cornwall is Paradise Park and for this Halloween you can come along and take a trip around the Pumpkin trail and ride the ghost train! There’s even a disco for children to dress up as their favourite monsters for a disco.Spooks and Smugglers Season
21/10/2019 - 03/11/2019
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Taking place at the Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre this Autumn is the Spooks and Smugglers Season event. Uncover tales and mysteries of secretive smugglers and hear the spooky stories that come with them. You will also have a chance to discuss Cornish Folklore and create your own puppet at the puppet making workshops. The Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre is located on the South Coast in Looe.Firework Displays across Cornwall
2019 23/10/2019 - 05/11/2019
Credit: cornwalllive.com
Come to Cornwall and you won’t be able to miss the many fireworks displays that will be taking place this Autumn.Halloween at Pendennis Castle
25/10/2019 - 03/11/2019
Credit: falmouthpacket.co.uk
This Halloween, head down to Pendennis Castle on the South Coast in Falmouth to get the scare of your life! It’s fun for all the family and children can join the quest around the castle to discover creepy crawlies. The adults can wait until nighttime for a guided tour through the shadow-world of ghosts!Lowender Peran Festival
30/10/2019 - 03/11/2019
Credit: visitnewquay.org
Taking place in Newquay on the North Coast is the Lowender peran Festival. This festival will celebrate traditional music, dance, storytelling, songs and their Celtic links to Brittany, Ireland, the Isle of Man and Scotland. The Singer Gwenno will be headlining the festival this year.Unbounded at the Eden Project
02/11/2019 - 26/01/2020
Credit: edenproject.com
The Unbounded event is an exhibition of contemporary art and explores some of the many of Cornwall’s beautiful environments. The Eden Project is located on the South Coast in St. Austell.Big Doggy Day Out Christmas Festival
02/11/2019
Credit: eventbrite.co.uk
If you head to Wadebridge on the North Coast on Saturday the 2nd November you can join in the first ‘Big Doggy Day Out Christmas Festival’ at the Royal Showground.Gatsby’s Gamble
07/11/2019
Credit: eventbrite.co.uk
Occuring on the South Coast in Cornwall is a 1920s themed party held by Mr. Jay Gatsby himself. Be prepared for an evening of fine dining and luxury.Bude Blues, Rhythm and Rock Festival
08/11/2019 - 10/11/2019
Credit: planetmosh.com
This event has a very ambitious lineup and is made up of great artists from the UK and other parts of the world. This event will be hosted in Bude on the North Coast.Etsy Made Local Christmas Fair 2019
15/11/2019 - 17/11/2019
Credit: blog.etsy.com
This year the venue is much bigger and in a new location on the South Coast which is perfect to host the Christmas fair. There are 70 talented makers, designers and illustrators who will be gathering at the fair with their stalls full of homemade items and decorations. For anyone looking for an original Christmas present then this is the place to be.Cornwall Rocks
15/11/2019 - 17/11/2019
Credit: visitcornwall.com
Cornwall Rocks is a brand new festival taking place on the South Coast. The main headliners are The Quireboys, Diamond Head and Massive Wagons so be sure not to miss it!The Cornish Winter Fair
16/11/2019
Credit: royalcornwallshow.org
The Cornish Winter Fair is a free event taking place in Wadebridge along the North Coast. This event is held undercover within the Exhibition Halls at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre. The event is to celebreate everything to do with farming and food in Cornwall and there is free parking on site.Truro City of Lights
20/11/2019
Credit: artistresidence.co.uk
Taking place in Truro on the South Coast is the spectacular festivity that is Truro City of Lights. People gather in weird and wonderful attire and everything is illuminated throughout the streets.Healey’s Cornish Christmas Markets
23/11/2019 - 16/12/2019
Credit: cornwalllive.com
Hosted on Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, located between Newquay and Truro on the North Coast, is the Cornish Christmas Markets event. Head on over to Healey’s to experience the only Christmas market set on a working farm in Cornwall.Bedruthan Christmas Fair
23/11/2019 - 24/11/2019
Credit: bedruthan.com
Featured at this fair are some of the most talented craftspeople from the South West gathering in Mawgan Porth on the North Coast. There are three levels of stalls which inclue art, ceramics, illustration, fashion, textiles and much, much more.Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair
27/11/2019 - 01/12/2019
Credit: ciosgrowthhub.com
Taking place in Truro on the South Coast is the Cornwall Christmas Fair which features handcrafted wall hangings, jigsaw puzzles, pottery and calendars just to name a few.St. Austell Brewery Celtic Beer Festival
30/11/2019
Credit: staustellbrewery.co.uk
This is going to be the biggest party of the year for everyone who loves everything to do with beer. Come and try a true taste of the South West in St. Austell.Flambards Christmas Craft Fayre
30/11/2019 - 01/12/2019
Credit: flambards.co.uk
Taking place in Helston, West Cornwall, is the Flambards Christmas Craft Fayre which is always packed with festive cheer and family friendly activities.Bedruthan Sugar and Spice Grotto
30/11/2019 - 23/12/2019
Credit: bedruthan.com
Returning once more to Mawgan Porth on the North Coast is the Bedruthan Sugar and Spice Grotto. Bringing you a magical experience like no other, ensure you head on over this year to discover the magic for yourself!Father Christmas at Eden
30/11/2019 - 23/12/2019
Credit: edenproject.com
Taking place in St. Austell on the South Coast and being hosted by the Eden Project is yet another Christmas event. Meet Father Christmas and all his elves at the Eden Project this Christmas!




















































