Cornwall has a wonderful way of making family holidays feel both exciting and easy-going. One minute you’re cycling with the kids, the next you’re enjoying an ice cream and watching boats bobbing about in a scenic harbour.
Whether you’re visiting for a long summer break, or squeezing in a short escape, our top 10 things to do in Cornwall contains plenty of ideas to keep the whole family smiling. From classic seaside fun to world-famous attractions, there are also some adventures that won’t cost a penny.
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Having the right place to stay makes all the difference, with the picturesque holiday cottages Cornwall is famous for offering a true home-from-home experience, where guests can enjoy complete relaxation.
- Rock pooling on the beach
No Cornwall holiday guide would be complete without mentioning the miles of clean beaches. Wandering across the sand with a bucket and net, peering into rock pools and discovering tiny worlds beneath the surface is one of the best free activities for families.
Perranporth Beach is a popular, family-friendly beach, stretching for nearly three miles along the north coast, where the rock pools come alive at low tide with crabs, anemones and starfish. There’s also plenty of space for games, picnics and sandcastle building. Elsewhere, Polzeath, Treyarnon Bay, Hannafore Beach in Looe, Duckpool near Bude and the beaches around St Ives are all fantastic spots for rock pooling.
Always check tide times and remind little explorers to be gentle with their finds before returning them safely to the sea.
- Cycling the Camel Trail
Visitors often ask how long is the Camel Trail in Cornwall? This mostly flat, traffic-free route follows a former railway line along the River Camel, making it perfect for people of all ages. The full route, from Padstow to Wenfordbridge, is around 17 to 18 miles, but it’s easily broken into shorter, manageable sections.
One of the most popular things to do in north Cornwall, cycling the Padstow to Wadebridge stretch is especially scenic, with calm estuary views and places to stop for snacks or photos. Bikes and trailers can be hired locally, so you don’t need to bring your own. It’s a great way to explore Cornwall and burn off some holiday energy.
- Try Rick Stein’s famous fish and chips
Holidays are all about treats – and nothing says “seaside” like a bag of fish and chips enjoyed by the harbour. Rick Stein’s restaurant in Padstow is a popular destination for visitors, as the celebrity chef is widely known for his love of seafood.
Alongside Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips, there are plenty of other Padstow harbour restaurants to choose from, offering everything from casual bites to sit-down meals. Even if you’re travelling with picky eaters, you’ll find something to keep everyone happy, while soaking up the buzz of this lively harbour town.
- Family fun at Padstow Harbour
As well as the places to dine out, Padstow Harbour itself is a brilliant place to spend a day, without needing a strict plan. Kids love watching the fishing boats come and go, while parents can enjoy a coffee with a view. Boat trips leave from the harbour on sea life safaris, while a ferry ride across the estuary to Rock feels like an adventure.
The National Lobster Hatchery is another family-friendly stop, combining education with conservation in a way that children can understand. From the harbour, you can also join the Camel Trail on foot or by bike, browse local shops, or follow a stretch of the Southwest Coast Path for a gentle walk.
- The Southwest Coast Path
This may be famous as a 630-mile challenge, but you don’t need to tackle the whole thing to enjoy it! In fact, dipping in and out of short sections is one of the most fun things to do in Cornwall. The path runs along the county’s coastline, offering dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and big sea views.
Choose a manageable route with plenty of stopping points and turn it into a treasure hunt for shells, seabirds or interesting rocks. It’s a brilliant way to introduce children to walking, while keeping things fun and flexible – and best of all, it’s completely free.
- Discover the Eden Project
One of Cornwall’s most famous attractions, the Eden Project is a real talking point for families. Walking down towards the iconic domes feels exciting, and the rainforest biome is genuinely impressive. The scale alone is enough to wow children, who love exploring the walkways and spotting unusual plants.
There are discounts available and children can enter for free with a Blue Peter Badge. With the addition of a playground and seasonal events, it can make for a memorable day out, particularly if you plan ahead.
- The Lost Gardens of Heligan
With more than 200 acres to explore, these beautifully restored gardens, dating from 1766, were hidden for decades since World War I before being rediscovered in 1990. Wandering through them feels like stepping into a secret world. Families can explore the many different areas and seek out famous features, like the Mud Maid and the Giant’s Head.
It’s especially lovely in spring and summer, when everything is in bloom, but there’s something magical about Heligan at any time of year, making it a relaxed yet fascinating family day out.
- Discover Cornwall’s mining heritage
Cornwall’s mining past has shaped its landscape, and exploring this heritage is both educational and fun. The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with atmospheric engine houses and mine ruins scattered along the coast from St Agnes to Hayle.
These sites are often free to visit. Sitting in some of the most dramatic coastal locations, they are perfect for combining history with a scenic walk and a picnic.
- Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek is a heartwarming day out that children rarely forget. Dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating seals, the staff also care for penguins, sea lions and otters. Talks and feeding times add an interactive element, and the setting overlooking Helford Estuary is beautiful.
It’s a chance to support marine conservation while enjoying a relaxed, educational visit. This is another attraction where Blue Peter Badges can save families money.
- Take a ride on the Bodmin Railway
The Bodmin Railway offers passengers a nostalgic 13-mile round trip on steam or diesel trains through the beautiful Cornish countryside. Departing from Bodmin General station, you can travel to Bodmin Parkway and Boscarne Junction, with options for standard tickets, cream tea trips, or special experiences, such as Murder Mystery and dining trains. Bodmin Railway welcomes dogs, so your furry friend can enjoy the experience too.
Make yourself at home
After busy days exploring the many fun things to do, staying in family-friendly visitor accommodation is a must. Cornwall’s cottage holidays for families make everything feel more relaxed, with space to spread out and wind down in many beautiful locations close to beaches or countryside. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer adventure, Cornwall has a way of making families return, time and time again.
