Are you visiting one of the many holiday parks in Cornwall?
You will be delighted to know that there are plenty of things to do in Cornwall!
Beautiful Cornwall has so much on offer including gorgeous stretches of rugged coastline, a superb choice of golden beaches, stunning moorland, huge cliffs, tropical gardens and notably many castles!
It’s sometimes a good idea to plan some days out before you go too, if you research and book ahead online you can save time and money – most attractions have various ‘book ahead’ discounts and offers.
There are far too many attractions to mention in this article, so we thought we would handpick some of our recommended favourites, here are our top 9 tourist attractions in Cornwall that you may like to check out!
Saint Michael’s Mount – Mount’s Bay, Marazion
Saint Michael’s Mount is one of Britain’s 43 ‘tidal islands’ that can only be reached by foot and at low tide only. Today this area is managed by the National Trust.
- A 30 minute walk at low tide from Marazion Beach across the purpose built causeway.
- To visit you must book in advance, online ticket bookings only for choices of Garden Terrace and Castle visiting.
- Discounted family bookings; children start at £4.00, adults at £8.50 and it’s free for National Trust members.
- There is plenty to explore on the island; gardens, castle, Barge House, the village and harbour area, the history of the island and the Aubyn Family history.
- It is possible to book a guided tour ahead of your visit; don’t forget to check the tide times before arrival!
The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Penzance
Minack Theatre is a breath-taking open-air theatre that juts into the ocean at Portcorno, with beautiful sub-tropical gardens to explore.
- Located approximately 4 miles from Land’s End, visiting season runs from May until September.
- Book a show, whether it be a play, comedy or a storytelling performance.
- Book a general visit to the theatre and gardens, plus a special garden tour.
- You must book tickets online in advance, prices vary depending on the show. Storytelling shows start at only £1 for small children and £3 for the under 15’s.
- Bring your dog, they are allowed for ‘Story Telling’ events, but need to be seated towards the back of theatre and be well behaved!
Land’s End Landmark Attraction, Penwith, Penzance
This famous landmark is located on the most westerly point of England, just outside Penzance. Land’s End Landmark is a headland and also a holiday complex.
- Experience the stunning cliff top walk and discover more about the local nature and wildlife at the local visitor’s centre.
- Fantastic for wildlife lovers, chances to see; Gannets, Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Shags, grey seals, basking sharks and perhaps even dolphins!
- There is a lovely gift shop – ‘First & Last House’, with lots of souvenirs on sale. You can also eat and drink at the café, restaurant/bar or at the Last Inn.
- Check online for various discounts and offers on accommodation, food etc.
- Don’t forget to visit the iconic Lands End – New York – John O Groats signpost!
Geevor Tin Mine, Pendeen
Located on the same peninsula as Land’s End, in the heart of the rugged Cornish coastline – between the villages of Pendeen and Trewellard, Geevor Tin Mine offers the opportunity to check out a real mine that used to produce tin and copper.
- The tin mine is recognised as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site for Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape.
- Explore the Hard Rock Museum with interactive activities for all the family, or the mine and it’s collections.
- Adventure underground! Have a tour through the ‘Wheal Mexico’ mine
- Family ticket discounts are available and the mine is open all the year round.
- Dogs are allowed across the site but not in the underground mine area.
Pendennis Castle, Falmouth
Pendennis Castle is located in a stunning seaside location on the headland overlooking the town of Falmouth. This seaside castle is one of Henry VIII’s finest sites and is rich in history.
- Explore the historic 16th century castle, with remarkable stone staircases and gunrooms.
- You need to book in advance online, family discount tickets and other concessions are available, its necessary to book a time slot.
- Various family events through year, also half term, Halloween and Christmas events.
- Enjoy a family picnic in the castle grounds, or grab a treat from the Castle Café.
- If you get your booking in very early, its possible to tie the knot and get married at Pendennis!
Tate St Ives, Pothmeor Beach, St Ives
Tate St Ives is a contemporary and modern art museum with various collections on show in a host of different galleries.
- A collection of modern artists who are connected to St Ives and other iconic modern artists.
- Various abstract sculptural forms from artists in Britain and abroad.
- Works on show by Piet Mondrian, Eileen Agar and Pablo Picasso.
- Other galleries highlighting iconic artwork from Dame Barbara Hepworth, William Scott, Naum Gabo.
- It is necessary to book a timed ticket in advance of your visit – become a Tate member and obtain free entry!
National Lobster Hatchery, Padstow
It’s the perfect chance to find out the life of a lobster! The National Lobster Hatchery is on South Quay in Padstow and is a Marine Conservation site.
- An award winning tourist attraction with a great visitor centre.
- Discover some amazing facts about lobsters – such as – they evolved over 140 million years ago!
- Go behind the scenes and discover the journey of a hatchery reared lobster!
- Book tickets in advance, adults only £4.95, children just £2.50 and discounted family tickets.
- It’s possible to adopt a lobster or purchase gifts at the shop, where proceeds go towards charity.
Bodmin Jail
The brand new Bodmin Jail visitor attraction, the biggest investment in 2020 in Cornwall’s tourism, opening in October 2020!
- There was recently a £8.5 million investment into this attraction to provide every visitor with access to some fantastic state of the art technology.
- An introduction to the all new ‘Dark walk’ experience!
- A choice of guided tours like; the Bodmin Town and Jail Heritage Ghost Walk, or the Scary Cinema and Paranormal Tour.
- Other experiences available include; Halloween, After Dark and try to check out the Bodmin Jail Hotel!
- Pre-book tickets online, adults are £15 and children £12.50. There are many concessions and family booking/group options worth checking out.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Explore the magic and wonders of Heligan – 200 acres of gardens and wildlife that was hidden under the brambles since the outbreak of WW1.
The mysterious estate is now the largest garden restoration project in Europe since it reopened in 1990.
- Over 200 acres of magical gardens, woodland walks and farmland to explore – the best natural playground available.
- Dogs on leads are welcome to join in the exploring and fun at Heligan!
- Enjoy a traditional Cornish Cream Tea or locally grown fruit and vegetables in the Heligan Kitchen and Bakery.
- Heligan is ideal for enjoying in all seasons. Explore the Victorian Productive Gardens, Pleasure Grounds or the UK’s only outdoor jungle!
Flambards Theme Park
Flambards is a theme park located on the outskirts of Helston in southwest Cornwall. Flambards makes a great family day out with its mixture of rides and attractions.
- Indoor attractions include The Victorian Village, Britain in the Blitz and Chemist Shop Time Capsule.
- Large selection of rides to suit the whole family including Sky-Force, Log Flume and Hornet Rollercoaster.
- Themed events throughout the year.
Visit the Flambards website for details on opening times, prices and booking.
What’s your favourite thing to do in Cornwall? We’d love to know!