Big Days Out In Cornwall
If you’re looking for adventure, Cornwall is packed full of brilliant Big Days Out that the whole family can enjoy.
From legendary castles perched on cliffs and world-class attractions by the sea, to action-packed activities that get your heart racing, there’s something here for every kind of explorer.
Whether you fancy diving into history, getting hands-on with interactive museums, or burning off energy at thrill-filled activity centres, Cornwall serves it all up against a backdrop of stunning scenery and that laid-back coastal charm.
The Minack
The Minack Theatre is one of my favourite places to visit. It is carved into the cliffs overlooking Porthcurno & Pedn Vounder Beach and has the most stunning and dramatic views you can get. We always visit every Summer to go to the wonderful storytelling sessions and the occasional show. We usually combine our visit with a trip to the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum, a play on Porthcurno Beach and then a walk up the cliffs to The Minack.
We have been to performances in the blazing sunshine - take sunhats, sunscreen and lots of drinks! And we have been to performances in the wind and rain - they only cancel performances in extreme weather, so take rain coats, layers and something waterproof to sit on if the weather forecast looks poor.
What Is There?
- Theatre carved into the cliffs which you can wander around when there is no performance on
- The theatre is all outdoors, so be prepared for the weather
- Regular shows and storytelling throughout the Summer
- Exhibition centre telling you all about the history of The Minack
- Beautiful, sub-tropical gardens
- You can bring your own food and drink to eat on the terraces
- Cafe
- Gift Shop
- Toilets
- Large free car park
Dog Friendly
The Minack is dog friendly EXCEPT during performances as dogs can bark and ruin the event. Guide dogs are allowed at all times.
Please visit the Minack Theatre website for opening times and ticket prices.
St Michael's Mount - National Trust
Perched dramatically on its tidal island, the castle on St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall feels like something straight out of a storybook.
What began as a monastery in the 12th century later became a fortified castle and, eventually, the family home of the St Aubyns, who still live there today.
Inside, you’ll find grand halls, armour, and centuries of history packed into every corner, while outside the views across Mount’s Bay are absolutely breathtaking.
The best bit? You can either stroll across the causeway at low tide or hop on a boat when the sea covers the walkway, making the whole visit feel just that little bit magical.
What Is There?
- Long, tidal causeway (free to walk on, but watch the tide!)
- Village - people actually live there full time!
- Castle
- Garden - stunning, subtropical planting
- Gift Shop
- Gallery
- Cafe and Ice Cream
- Toilets
- Run by the National Trust
St Michael's Mount have made some changes to how they are allowing visitors onto the island. It used to be you could walk over the causeway and visit the cafe and shop without having to have tickets. Dogs also used to be welcome in these areas too. Not anymore!
Between 1st April to 30th September, you can only access the island with tickets and there is a no dogs rule. However, is still FREE to walk across to St Michael’s Mount at low tide but if you don't have tickets for The Island you will almost be frog-marched off! However, do note that the island doesn't own the causeway and it is still a right of way. You can walk it to the main entrance, and rockpool there for free.
Between October and March access to the harbour and village (not the castle and garden) is free for everyone during opening hours and you can take your dogs over.
Dogs On The Beach
Also do be aware that Marazion beach has a dog ban from 1 July to 31 August between 10 am and 6 pm and is dog-friendly outside of these hours and between 1 September and 30 June when dogs are permitted on the beach.
Car Parking
Confusingly and annoyingly, the main car park in Marazion by Folly Field is NOT owned by the National Trust. So National Trust members don't get any free parking for the Mount.
Please check the St Michael's Mount website for opening times and tickets.
Land's End
When I first visited Land’s End as an adult I was a bit surprised. I was expecting it to be just a great view and a signpost. Either my memory is really bad or it really has changed since I was a child.
There is a pretty big entertainment complex there now. There is lots to see, do, eat and buy, but I’m not convinced why it is there at beautiful Land’s End, it does slightly confuse me.
However, I do have to say my children really enjoyed some of the entertainment bits. My son hated the 4D film experience, but that was because he found it really scary. Both of them loved the Shawn The Sheep experience and Greeb Farm.
What Is There?
- The view – simply breathtaking and worth paying the car park charge for the view and a walk
- The famous signpost – do be aware that you have to PAY to have your photo taken infront of it (so cheeky!)
- RSPB Discovery Centre
- Heritage Trail
- South West Coast Path
- Wreck of HMS Mulheim
- Enys Dodman rock formation
- Decommissioned lifeboat and helicopter
- The End To End Story
- Greeb Farm
- Fireworks every Tuesday and Thursday evening in the Summer holidays with music!
And the entertainment…
- Arthur’s Quest
- Shaun The Sheep Experience
- 4D Film Experience
- Land’s End Doughnut Company
- West Country Shopping Village
- First And Last Inn
- Cornish Pantry
- Lots of other places to eat & drink
- Ice Cream Parlour
- Gift shop
- Car Park – there is a charge if you don’t have a local’s pass!
Partially Dog Friendly
Dogs are allowed basically anywhere outside. They are not allowed inside the attractions or eating areas.
Please check the Land's End website for opening times and prices.
Blue Reef Aquarium
Visiting the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay is like diving into the depths of the ocean, without ever getting wet!
Tucked right by Towan Beach, this family-friendly gem showcases over 40 naturally themed habitats that take you from local Cornish shores to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
You’ll promenade through an underwater tunnel in the heart of a 250,000-litre ocean tank, where tropical sharks, colorful reef fish, and even a rescued loggerhead turtle named Omiros float gracefully overhead.
It’s not just about pretty fish. There are octopus, seahorses, caiman crocodiles, crustaceans, and more, all brought to life with engaging feeding demos and keeper talks throughout the day.
What Is There?
- 40 naturally themed habitats
- Black tip reef sharks
- Giant pacific octopus
- Dwarf Caiman crocodile
- Loggerhead turtle
- Lots of colourful corals and smaller fish
- Underwater viewing tunnel
- Feeding times and talks
- Cafe
- Gift Shop
- Toilets
- Parking is in town – the closest car parks are St Georges Road and Manor Road
Not Dog Friendly
You can’t take your dog to The Blue Reef Aquarium.
Please check the Blue Reef Aquarium website for opening times and ticket prices.
Newquay Zoo
Nestled within 13 acres of lush sub-tropical gardens just a short stroll from Newquay town centre, Newquay Zoo offers a delightful and educational day out for all ages.
Home to over 130 species, the zoo features a variety of themed exhibits that showcase wildlife from around the globe.
Highlights include the African Savannah, where zebras, wildebeest, and nyala roam, and the Tropical House, which houses sloths, snakes, and pygmy marmosets.
Visitors can also enjoy the playful antics of Humboldt penguins and ring-tailed lemurs, as well as the rare and endangered brown hyenas, recently introduced to the zoo for the first time.
Beyond its captivating animal exhibits, Newquay Zoo is deeply committed to conservation efforts. As part of the Wild Planet Trust, the zoo supports numerous breeding programs for endangered species and participates in global conservation initiatives.
Your visit not only provides an opportunity to see these incredible animals up close but also supports vital wildlife protection work both locally and internationally.
What Is There?
- Zebra
- Wildebeest
- Lynx
- Warty Pigs (so cute!)
- Sloth
- Monkeys (lots of different types)
- Loads of birds including roaming peacocks
- Penguins
- Red Pandas
- Capybara (like a massive guinea pig!)
- Snakes, lizards & frogs
- Meerkats
- Deer & more!
- Lots of feeding times and talks
- Cafes
- Picnic areas
- Toilets
- Parking is nearby in the local council car park which you do have to pay for at certain times of the year (free until Easter)
Not Dog Friendly
You can’t take your dog to Newquay Zoo unless it is an assitance dog.
Please check the Newquay Zoo website for opening times and ticket prices.
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Nestled in the picturesque village of Gweek on the Helford Estuary, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a heartwarming and educational destination for animal lovers of all ages.
As part of the Sea Life Trust, this sanctuary plays a vital role in rescuing and rehabilitating sick and injured seal pups found along the Cornish coastline.
Each year, the dedicated team cares for approximately 60–70 pups, providing them with expert medical attention and a safe environment to recover before being released back into the wild.
What Is There?
- Seals, otters, sea lions, penguins & other sea life
- Seal hospital
- Big pools with underwater viewing areas
- Woodland walks & nature trail
- Talks, feeding times & demonstrations.
- Quiz trails for the kids
- Pirate play area
- Rockpool discovery area
- Safari Bus (Summer time only)
- Adopt a seal!
- Cafe
- Picnic areas
- Gift shop
- Toilets
- Free car park
Dog Friendly
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is dog friendly! There are a few areas where you can’t take dogs, such as the seal hospital, the safari bus and inside the cafe. But the rest of the park is dog friendly (on a lead please). There are plenty of water bowls around the site and even doggy treats at the reception.
Please check the Cornish Seal Sanctuary website for opening times and ticket prices.
Day Trip To The Scillies
A day trip on the Scillonian to the Isles Of Scilly is a wonderful way to spend the day. Do be aware though, if the sea is rough, it can be a choppy ride! On a beautifully calm day though it is the most amazing sea trip.
At the time of writing this, the Scillonian leaves Penzance harbour at 9:15am and lands on St Mary's at 12noon. You disembark and get until 4:30pm to visit the island. The boat leaves St Mary's at 4:30pm and gets back to Penzance around 7:15pm.
Some days the boat leaves later and comes back earlier, so again you would need to check times in order to give yourself a nice amount of time on St Mary's.
You can go for a longer period of time over to The Scillies, but prices do go up a fair bit. You can also get the helicopter or plane over too.
Car Parking
You can't take your car on the Scillonian, so you need to park it somewhere in Penzance. The Scillionian company do offer a park and ride service from Trereife House, but you should be able to get parking at Penzance Harbour council car park much cheaper for the day.
Please check the Scillonian website for up to date sailing times and ticket prices.
Geevor Mine
Geevor Tin Mine, perched on the rugged cliffs of Cornwall’s Tin Coast near Pendeen, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich mining heritage. Once a bustling tin mine until its closure in 1990, it now stands as the largest preserved tin mining site in Britain and a key part of the UNESCO Cornish Mining World Heritage Site .
Visitors can explore the extensive site, which includes the 18th-century Wheal Mexico Mine tunnels, the historic 'Dry' building where miners prepared for their shifts, and the impressive Victory Shaft headgear . The Hard Rock Museum provides interactive exhibits and oral histories, bringing the stories of miners to life .
There are family-friendly activities, such as panning for 'gold' and gems, completing the Geevor quiz, and following the QR trail.
The site also has a cafe with stunning views over the Atlantic, offering a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploration.
What Is There?
- The Underground Tour
- The Hard Rock Museum
- The Dry & Miners Talk
- Victory Shaft
- Mineral Panning
- Stone Carving
- Hand Drilling
- Kibble Filling
- Dressing Up
- Count House Cafe – free entry if you just want to use the cafe
- Shop
- Free Car Park
Partially Dog Friendly
Dogs are welcome on site but are not allowed in the underground, shop and cafe.
Please check the Geevor Mine website for opening times and ticket prices.
Tintagel
Visiting Tintagel is like stepping straight into legend, with dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and the ruins of a medieval castle famously linked to King Arthur.
The village itself has a lovely, laid-back vibe, with cosy pubs, tea rooms, and shops full of Cornish crafts, while the walk up to the castle (via a striking modern footbridge) rewards you with jaw-dropping coastal views.
You can also explore Merlin’s Cave down on the beach at low tide, which adds to the mythical atmosphere.
It’s a place where history, folklore, and stunning scenery all come together. Perfect for a day of exploring with a bit of magic thrown in.
- One of the most spectacular historic sites in Britain
- Built half on the mainland and half on a jagged headland projecting into the Cornish sea.
- Discover the legend of King Arthur
- Visit the castle ruins
- Cross the (very high!) bridge to the island
- See the amazing "Gallos" statue
- Owned by English Heritage so Cornish Heritage members get in for "free"
- Car parking (paid) in the village
Please visit the Tintagel website for opening times and ticket prices.
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle in Falmouth is one of those places where history feels really alive.
Built by Henry VIII back in the 1540s to defend Cornwall against French and Spanish invasion, it’s stood guard over the Fal Estuary for centuries and still looks pretty impressive today.
You can wander through the Tudor keep, climb up for sweeping sea views, and see how the castle was adapted right up through World War II, with old guns and wartime rooms to explore.
There’s also a great little exhibition that brings the stories of soldiers and sieges to life.
It’s the kind of spot that mixes clifftop walks, epic views, and fascinating history, so it ticks a lot of boxes for a good day out.
What Is There?
- Fabulous Tudor Keep - with walls and ceilings (unusual for a castle in Cornwall)
- Fortress Falmouth & First World War Exhibition
- Weapons of war
- Tunnels to Half Moon Battery
- Observation Posts - lots to explore
- Guns and Canons
- Great view over Falmouth and the estuary
- Free big car park on site
- Lovely grounds for picnics
- Cafe and ice cream
- Events and activities during the school holidays.
- Owned by English Heritage so Cornish Heritage members get in for "free"
Please visit the Pendennis Castle website for opening times and ticket prices.
The National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth offers a captivating journey through the rich maritime heritage of Cornwall and beyond.
Situated on Discovery Quay, this award-winning museum boasts 15 galleries spread across five floors, each exploring the profound influence of the sea on history and culture.
Highlights include the National Small Boat Collection, featuring over 100 historic boats, and the Tidal Zone, an immersive exhibit that allows visitors to observe marine life in Falmouth Harbour through underwater windows .
Current exhibitions include SURF! (celebrating a century of surfing in Cornwall), Resilience (focusing on the endurance of Cornwall’s coastal communities), and The Museum at 20, commemorating the museum's 20th anniversary.
What Is There?
- The Main Hall with the National Small Boat Collection, some of it hanging overhead!
- Survival Zone – all about surviving and sea rescues
- Boat building workshop
- Exhibitions - currently it is one about the history of surfing
- The Flotilla
- Cornwall and The Sea
- Tidal Zone
- The Lookout Tower
- The Nav Station
- The Lighthouse
- The Boat Pool - drive a little sail boat on the indoor pond
- and so much more amazing stuff about the sea. It really is the best!
- Cafe with fab views across Falmouth Bay
- You can bring your own food to picnic inside
- Brilliant gift shop!
- Childrens activities during the school holidays.
- Treasure Island Play Zone
- Car Parking is in the public car par about 100 metres away from the museum. It is a pay and display.
- Your entrance fee gets you access to the Maritime Museum for a year.
Not Dog Friendly
Accessibility dogs are allowed in the museum. All other dogs are not allowed. However, a “dog bed” is set up outside the museum in a sheltered and protected location near the entrance with a dog bed, lead tie up and water bowl.
Please visit the National Maritime Museum website for opening times and ticket prices.
The Lost Gardens Of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall is a captivating blend of horticultural history, botanical beauty, and poignant heritage.
Spanning 200 acres near Mevagissey, these gardens were once part of the Tremayne family's estate, flourishing until World War I led to their decline.
Rediscovered in 1990 after decades of neglect, the restoration project has since become one of Europe's most remarkable garden revivals.
In May 2025, the Lost Gardens of Heligan received the King's Award for Enterprise, recognizing its excellence in tourism and heritage.
What Is There?
- 200 acre garden
- Productive gardens
- Pleasure grounds
- Jungle
- longest Burmese Rope Bridges in Britain
- The Hide
- Insect Hotel and Hives
- Wildflower meadows
- Woodland
- The Giant's Head
- Mud Maid
- Grey Lady
- Farm
- Beautiful, natural playground
- Kitchen & Bakery
- Takeaway, Pizza and BBQ
- Shop & Plant Centre
Dog Friendly
Dogs with well-behaved owners are welcome to the Gardens all year round!
Please check The Lost Gardens Of Heligan website for opening times and ticket prices.
The Eden Project
Visiting The Eden Project in Cornwall is like stepping into a world where nature and innovation collide in the most spectacular way.
Nestled in a reclaimed china clay pit near St Austell, this iconic attraction features massive biomes that recreate global climates, from the steamy, tropical rainforest to the warm, Mediterranean gardens.
Inside, you’ll discover thousands of plants from around the world, winding walkways, and even a treetop canopy walkway that gives a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest biome.
Beyond the plants, Eden is all about sustainability and education, with exhibits, workshops, and events that explore how we can live more harmoniously with the planet.
It’s a place that’s fun, inspiring, and perfect for families, couples, or anyone curious about the natural world.
What Is There?
- Rainforest Biome
- Mediterranean Biome
- Outdoor Gardens
- Western Australian Garden
- Vegetable Garden
- Wild Cornwall
- Giant Bee
- Rainforest canopy walkway
- Skywire
- The Nest climbing frame
- Soft Play
- Exhibitions & Events
- Cafe
- Baobab Bar
- Restaurant
- Amazing Gift Shop!
Partially Dog Friendly
Dogs are allowed in the outside gardens. They are not allowed inside the biomes. Assistance dogs are allowed in all area.
Please check the Eden Project website for opening times and ticket prices.
Paradise Park
Paradise Park in Hayle, Cornwall, is a delightful wildlife sanctuary that offers a fantastic day out for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
Nestled in lush gardens with views of the sea, the park is home to over 1,200 birds, including vibrant parrots, flamingos, penguins, and the rare red-billed Cornish choughs.
Beyond the aviaries, visitors can enjoy close encounters with red pandas, otters, red squirrels, and even harvest mice.
Daily events such as penguin feedings, free-flying bird displays, and the 'Flight of the Rainbows' lorikeet experience add to the excitement.
For younger visitors, the JungleBarn indoor play centre provides hours of entertainment with its giant slides and toddler-friendly zones.
With its blend of conservation efforts and family fun, Paradise Park promises an lovely day out for all ages.
What Is There?
Animals
- flamingos
- penguins
- red pandas
- owls
- parrots/parakeets - lots of colourful ones
- toucan
- Cornish chough
- otters
- small farm animals
Other Info
- large outdoor animal park
- outdoor play areas
- feeding times
- bird displays
- little train
- dinosaur statues
- picnic areas (you can bring your own food to eat outside)
- indoor soft play
- cafe
- shop
- toilets
Parking
There is plenty of free parking onsite.
Please check the Paradise Park website for opening times and ticket prices.
Lappa Valley
Lappa Valley, nestled in the heart of Cornwall's countryside near Newquay, is a delightful family destination that combines nostalgia, nature, and fun.
The star attraction is the Lappa Valley Steam Railway, a narrow-gauge line that chugs visitors through scenic woodlands from Benny Halt to East Wheal Rose.
At East Wheal Rose, the adventure continues with a boating lake, pedal-powered swan boats, a crazy golf course, trampolines, and a maze.
For indoor fun, The Engine Shed offers a multi-level soft play area, while the café serves up delicious homemade meals and treats.
The park also features a musical trail, woodland walks, and various outdoor play areas, making it a perfect spot for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a day of wholesome entertainment, Lappa Valley provides a great day out for all ages.
What Is There?
- Woodland Railway
- Newlyn Branchline
- Canoeing Lake
- Toddler’s Maze Path
- Crazy Golf
- Play Areas
- Nature Trails
- Indoor Play Carriages
- Childrens’ Rides
- Whistle Stop Cafe
- Ice Cream Express
- The Carriage Cafe
- Picnic areas (you can bring your own)
- Free car park on site
Dog Friendly
Dogs are allowed at Lappa Valley providing they are well behaved and kept on a lead. They charge £1 per dog. Assistance dogs go free.
Please visit the Lappa Valley website for opening times and ticket prices.
Camel Creek Adventure Park
Camel Creek Adventure Park, near Wadebridge in Cornwall, is a family-friendly haven brimming with over 40 rides and attractions, ensuring a day packed with excitement for all ages.
Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or laid-back fun, Camel Creek offers something for everyone.
Top Attractions
- Morgawr: A family rollercoaster that delivers a delightful mix of twists and turns.
- Raging Rivers: A splashy water slide perfect for cooling off on warm days.
- Thunder Falls: A thrilling log flume ride that adds a dash of excitement.
- Magic Dragon: A junior coaster offering gentle thrills for younger adventurers.
- Pirate of The 7 Seas: A swinging pirate ship ride that provides aerial views of the park.
- Merlin’s Magical Playground: An enchanting play area inspired by the legendary wizard.
- Shipwreck Shores Adventure Golf: A themed mini-golf course set amidst a shipwreck backdrop.
- Meerkat Magic: An opportunity to observe a lively family of meerkats in their habitats
- Pets Corner & Paddock: Interact with a variety of animals, including goats, emus, pigs, and more.
- The Stables: Meet the park's resident Shire horses and ponies.
- Creeky's Playhouse: An expansive indoor soft play area spanning over 45,000 square feet, ensuring fun regardless of the weather.
- There is food and drink on site, and a shop.
Dog Unfriendly
No dogs allowed, expect guide and assistance dogs.
Please check the Camel Creek website for opening times and ticket prices.
Bodmin Jail
Bodmin Jail, perched on the edge of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, is a captivating fusion of history, mystery, and modern innovation.
Established in 1779, it was the first British prison to house inmates in individual cells, a progressive move for its time.
Over its 150-year operation, the jail witnessed over 50 public executions, adding to its dark legacy.
After closing in 1927, the building fell into ruin until a significant £65 million redevelopment transformed it into a tourist attraction and boutique hotel in 2021.
Today, visitors can delve into the past through immersive experiences like the "Dark Walk," which employs theatrical effects and cutting-edge technology to transport guests back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
The site also offers guided tours, including paranormal walks and heritage tours, allowing guests to explore original cells and learn about the lives of past inmates.
For those intrigued by the supernatural, the jail's ghost tours provide a spine-tingling adventure, with some claiming encounters with spirits from its grim past.
- Prepare to be scared, an immersive attraction not for the faint hearted!
- Discover the hidden stories and myths of Cornwall, Bodmin and the jail
- Dark Walk - take a journey back in time
- The Naval Wing - peek into grimy cells and learn about the harsh punishments
- Administration Block - includes the paranormal and the condemned cell!
- The Last Moments - follow in the footsteps of the condemned
- Gift Shop
- The Jolly Hangman Tavern - for food and refreshments
Dog Unfriendly
Dogs aren't allowed in Bodmin Jail for their own well being - it is scary!
Please check the Bodmin Jail website for opening times and ticket prices.
