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The Very Best Free (or Cheap) Things to Do for Families in Cornwall this Summer 2023

Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall Scenery
Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall

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Cornwall is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun and affordable summer vacation. With its stunning beaches, picturesque countryside, and rich history and culture, there is no shortage of activities and attractions to keep the whole family entertained. However, with so much to see and do, it can be challenging to know where to start, especially when traveling on a budget.

Table of Contents

Porthcurno Beach

Ocean view at Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno Beach

Porthcurno Beach is a stunning destination located in Cornwall, UK, and it is a great thing to do for families. The beach’s crystal clear waters, soft golden sand, and picturesque surroundings make it the perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Cornish coast.

Children will love playing in the calm waters and building sandcastles on the beach, while parents can take in the stunning views and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. The beach also offers a range of activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to the beach, families can also explore the nearby Telegraph Museum and learn about the history of communication and the role of Porthcurno in the development of the telegraph. There are also plenty of coastal walks and hiking trails to explore, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.

St. Michael’s Mount

St. Michael’s Mount is a wonderful destination for families looking for a fun and educational day out. This historic island off the coast of Cornwall, UK, offers a range of activities that are sure to keep the whole family engaged.

Children will love exploring the castle and gardens, which date back to the 12th century, and learning about the history of the island. They can also take part in interactive exhibitions that bring the past to life, such as the Giant’s Heartbeat exhibit which tells the story of a legendary giant who once lived on the mount.

For more adventurous families, there are also opportunities to go rock pooling, kayaking or coasteering. And for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic and take in the stunning views.

In addition to all of these activities, St. Michael’s Mount hosts a range of family-friendly events throughout the year, such as treasure hunts and storytelling sessions, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to experience.

Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is an excellent destination for families looking to explore the history and myth surrounding King Arthur and his legendary knights. This historic castle, located in Cornwall, UK, offers a range of activities that are sure to captivate both children and adults alike.

One of the highlights of Tintagel Castle is the dramatic location, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Children will love exploring the ruins of the castle and imagining themselves as brave knights defending the fortress. They can also learn about the castle’s history and the legends of King Arthur through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Families can also take part in hands-on activities, such as archaeological digs and craft workshops, which allow them to engage with the castle’s history and artifacts. For the more adventurous, there are also opportunities to explore the rugged coastline and take in the stunning views on a coastal walk.

Tintagel Castle also hosts a range of family-friendly events throughout the year, including reenactments, storytelling sessions, and treasure hunts, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to experience.

The Eden Project

Eden Project, in Cornwall aerial shot
Eden Project

While not free, the Eden Project offers affordable family tickets and is a fascinating day out for all ages. Kids will love the outdoor gardens and the rainforest biome, while adults can learn about sustainable living.

The Eden Project is a world-renowned attraction located in Cornwall, UK, and it is a fantastic destination for families to visit. This unique ecological project consists of two biomes – one housing a tropical rainforest and the other a Mediterranean landscape – as well as outdoor gardens, art installations, and educational exhibits.

Families will be amazed by the variety of plants and wildlife on display, and the immersive experience of walking through the biomes is sure to captivate both children and adults alike. They can learn about the importance of sustainability and conservation through interactive exhibits, and engage in hands-on activities such as planting and gardening.

The Eden Project also offers a range of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year, such as nature walks, workshops, and seasonal festivals. Children can also enjoy the adventure playgrounds and zip wires, and the site offers plenty of opportunities for picnics and outdoor play.

The Minack Theatre

The Minack Theatre is a truly unique destination located in Cornwall, UK, and it is a great thing to do for families. This open-air theatre is carved into a granite cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, providing stunning views and an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Families can enjoy a range of performances throughout the year, from classic plays and musicals to contemporary productions. Children will be captivated by the unique setting and the magic of live theatre, and the site offers special matinee performances and family-friendly productions to accommodate younger audiences.

In addition to the performances, The Minack Theatre also offers tours and exhibits that highlight the history and construction of the theatre, as well as the story of its founder, Rowena Cade. Families can explore the gardens and take in the breathtaking views, and there are plenty of spots for picnics and outdoor play.

Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is a historic and fascinating destination located in Cornwall, UK, and it is a great thing to do for families. The castle’s dramatic location perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, combined with its rich history and legends surrounding King Arthur and his knights, make it an exciting and educational experience for all ages.

Families can explore the ruins of the castle and imagine themselves as brave knights defending the fortress. They can also learn about the castle’s history and the legends of King Arthur through interactive exhibits and guided tours. For the more adventurous, there are also opportunities to explore the rugged coastline and take in the stunning views on a coastal walk.

Tintagel Castle also hosts a range of family-friendly events throughout the year, including reenactments, storytelling sessions, and treasure hunts, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to experience.

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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