Home Things to do UK Cornwall Creating Unforgettable Memories: Top 10 Things to Do in Cornwall with Your Family
CornwallThings to doUK

Creating Unforgettable Memories: Top 10 Things to Do in Cornwall with Your Family

Beach view in St. Ives, Cornwall, UK

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As someone who has grown up in Cornwall, I can confidently say that it is one of the best destinations for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. With its beautiful beaches, stunning coastal views, and a plethora of family-friendly attractions, Cornwall has something for everyone. In this article, I will be sharing the top things to do in Cornwall with your family, so you can create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

Beaches and Coastal Activities

Porthcurno Beach ocean view
Porthcurno Beach

Cornwall is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it’s no wonder that they are a popular attraction for families. One of the best beaches in Cornwall is Fistral Beach in Newquay, which is perfect for surfing and other water sports. If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, then Porthcurno Beach is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.

Apart from beaches, Cornwall also has many coastal activities that your family can enjoy. You can take a boat trip along the coast, explore hidden coves and caves, or even go on a fishing trip. The South West Coast Path is also a great place to walk and explore the coastline.

Family-Friendly Museums and Attractions

Aerial view of National Maritime Museum, Cornwall
National Maritime Museum

Cornwall has many museums and attractions that are perfect for families. The National Maritime Museum in Falmouth is a great place to learn about Cornwall’s maritime history, while the Eden Project in St Austell is a must-visit for families interested in ecology and sustainability. The Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden are perfect for art-loving families.

If you’re looking for something fun and interactive, then the Newquay Zoo is a great option. Here, you can see a variety of animals, including lions, monkeys, and penguins. The Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay is also a great place to visit, where you can see a variety of marine life up close.

Outdoor Adventure Activities

Tourists in Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno Beach

Cornwall is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are many adventure activities that your family can enjoy. One of the most popular activities is surfing, and there are many surf schools along the coast where you can take lessons. Coasteering is also a popular activity, which involves jumping off cliffs and exploring the coastline.

If you’re looking for something a little less extreme, then kayaking or paddleboarding is a great option. You can explore Cornwall’s rivers and estuaries or even go on a guided tour. Cycling is also a great way to explore Cornwall, and there are many cycle routes that you can take.

Family-Friendly Farms and Animal Encounters

Family feeding goats at Feadon Farm Wildlife Centre, Cornwall
Feadon Farm Wildlife Centre

Cornwall has many family-friendly farms and animal encounters that your kids will love. The Feadon Farm Wildlife Centre in Portreath is a great place to get up close with animals such as foxes, badgers, and owls. The Dairyland Farm World in Newquay is perfect for families with young children, where you can see farm animals and even go on a tractor ride.

If your family loves horses, then the Cornish Riding Holidays in Bodmin is a great option. Here, you can go on a horse ride through the beautiful Cornish countryside.

Historical Sites and Landmarks

Hillside of Tintagel Castle, Tintagel, UK
Tintagel Castle

Cornwall has a rich history, and there are many historical sites and landmarks that you can explore with your family. Tintagel Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Cornwall, and it’s a great place to learn about the legend of King Arthur. The St Michael’s Mount in Marazion is also a must-visit, where you can explore the castle and enjoy stunning views of the coast.

If you’re interested in mining history, then the Geevor Tin Mine in Penzance is a great place to visit. Here, you can see how tin was mined in Cornwall and learn about the lives of the miners.

Festivals and Events for Families

Burke Cattle contest at Royal Cornwall Show
Royal Cornwall Show

Cornwall has a vibrant culture, and there are many festivals and events that your family can enjoy. The Royal Cornwall Show is a popular event that takes place every year in June, where you can see farm animals, tractors, and even a dog show. The Falmouth Oyster Festival is also a great event, where you can enjoy fresh oysters and seafood.

If you’re visiting Cornwall in the summer, then the Boardmasters Festival in Newquay is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy live music, surfing, and other outdoor activities.

Family-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

Group eating burger and fries on a restaurant

Cornwall has many family-friendly restaurants and cafes that serve delicious food. The Rick Stein restaurants in Padstow are a popular choice, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other local dishes. The Watering Hole in Perranporth is also a great place to visit, where you can enjoy a meal while overlooking the beach.

If you’re looking for something more casual, then the Cornish Pasty Company in St Ives is a great option. Here, you can enjoy a traditional Cornish pasty, which is a must-try when in Cornwall.

Accommodations for Families in Cornwall

Room at Bedruthan Hotel & Spa
Bedruthan Hotel & Spa

Cornwall has a variety of accommodations that are perfect for families. There are many holiday parks and campsites along the coast, where you can enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of activities. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, then the Bedruthan Hotel and Spa in Mawgan Porth is a great option. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the coast and relax in the spa.

Tips for Planning a Family Vacation in Cornwall

Growing family on a vacation

When planning a family vacation in Cornwall, it’s important to consider the time of year and the weather. The best time to visit Cornwall is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so it’s important to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

It’s also important to consider your family’s interests and plan activities accordingly. If your family loves the beach, then you may want to spend more time on the coast. If your family loves history, then you may want to visit more historical sites and landmarks.

Conclusion

Cornwall is a great destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. With its beautiful beaches, stunning coastal views, and a plethora of family-friendly attractions, Cornwall has something for everyone. By following the top 10 things to do in Cornwall with your family, you can create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So why not plan your next family vacation in Cornwall today?

Book your family vacation in Cornwall today and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Written by
David Prior

David Prior is an NCTJ-qualified journalist and the editor of Big Family Breaks. He is also a father of five and an experienced traveller, especially with kids.

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