Although Cornwall is blessed with better weather than the rest of the UK, with a much milder climate, the sun doesn’t always shine. But a bit of drizzle shouldn’t dampen your spirits while staying at our Truro holiday cottages!
We know just how you can still make the most of the rainy days. Discover our favourite activities and venues to entertain everyone when the skies turn grey.
Eden Project
Location: Par, PL24 2SG
Website
The Eden Project should be high on your list of things to do in Cornwall, and though every other tourist will have the same idea to head to the Eden Project when it rains, it is still amazing to visit.
An all-weather attraction, wandering around the rainforest biome may even be better when the weather is colder outside! The famous attraction has some of the biggest greenhouses in the world, and the whole family will love to discover the various plants and natural beauty here.
If the sun does come out, there are also outdoor gardens to explore, in addition to the rainforest and Mediterranean biomes. In the school holidays, there are also several events held at the Eden Project, providing educational fun for children.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Location: Falmouth, TR11 3QY
Website
Just a short drive from our luxury Cornish cottages is the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth. Situated on the picturesque harbour, the museum celebrates the sea, boats and Cornwall’s maritime history.
The museum has won many awards for its stunning exhibitions, with new and exciting displays about everything from monsters to surfing, helping us understand our deep relationship to the waters surrounding us.
There is something for all ages at the National Maritime Museum, and with the boat collection, Cornish Maritime collection and much more, you can easily spend a day there without ever having to step out into the rain!
Newquay Leisure World
Location: Newquay, TR7 2LZ
Website
If the rain has made it impossible for a day at the beach, head to the leisure centre instead! Newquay Leisure World has a 25-metre pool for those wanting a leisurely swim and a tropical fun pool with waterfalls, two water flumes, baby slides and floats.
There’s also a trampoline park and a gym here, which is open to tourists, making the leisure centre an ideal place for families to head to for a fun day indoors and away from the rain.
Surfing
As they say, “when you’re wet, you’re wet!” Many locals attest that windy and wet conditions are some of the best times to get out on the water. The waves are usually bigger, there are fewer swimmers in the water, and you’re shielded from the sun, which can help when you’re covered neck to ankle in a wetsuit.
Barring heavy storms, which can bring choppy and dangerous waters, most of Cornwall’s best surf spots will still have lifeguards and surf schools even when the weather takes a turn, meaning you can still enjoy Cornwall’s beaches on wet days like a local.
Jungle Barn at Paradise Park
Location: Hayle, TR27 4HY
Website
Paradise Park’s Jungle Barn is fabulous fun whatever the weather, and when the rain is forcing you indoors, it is great to have a play area out of the rain.
There are giant slides, challenging soft play on several levels and a toddlers’ zone, providing endless fun that will make you want to stay all day! There is also a snack bar to keep you and your kids fueled for the crazy amount of activities you can do – you might need a sugar boost after the drop slides!
Then, if the weather decides to let up, the animals in the park are wonderful to see, with everything from red pandas to tropical parrots.
Blue Reef Aquarium
Location: Newquay, TR7 1DU
Website
Another Newquay attraction is the Blue Reef Aquarium, with over 40 naturally themed habitats full of fish and sea creatures. You can come face to face with turtles, jellyfish and octopus!
At the centre of the aquarium is the underwater tunnel, giving you fantastic views of reef sharks and colourful tropical fish. Throughout the day, you can see the various creatures being fed, from sharks to turtles.
Geevor Tin Mine
Location: Penzance, TR19 7EW
Website
Tin mining is arguably the most important part of Cornwall’s past, playing a huge role in shaping the fortunes of our county today. Geevor brings this history to life perhaps better than anywhere else.
Having only closed in 1990, Geevor Tin Mine is the largest preserved mining site in the country, offering an incredible insight into the past and present of Cornish mining. The mine and mill are fully explorable, allowing you to go deep underground (hard hat included) and understand the conditions in which the miners worked.
There’s also a museum with various activities for the whole family, such as mineral panning, as well as a cafe which has stunning views over the coastline – perfect for a rainy day lunch.
Bodmin Jail
Location: Bodmin PL31 2NR
Website
The large grounds and fascinating exhibits at Bodmin Jail make this a place you can easily spend a whole day.
Originally called Bodmin Gaol, the jail opened in 1779 and closed in 1927, part of it falling into ruin. However, that which has been restored has been superbly transformed into a thriving exhibition showcasing the darker sides of Cornish and Victorian history.
With guided tours, immersive 4D exhibits and frequent tales of ghost stories, Bodmin Jail is perfect for adults and big kids who enjoy spooky adventures.
Tate St Ives
Location: St Ives, TR26 1TG
Website
One of the UK’s foremost contemporary galleries, Tate St Ives is a must-visit for any art fans or those interested in learning about the town’s rich artistic history.
Housed in a beautiful building along the St Ives coast, the Tate contains a wonderful collection of international contemporary art, sculptures and installations. There’s also a collection highlighting how St Ives became a centre of modern art in the 20th century, alongside a regular catalogue of curated exhibitions throughout the year.
If you just want to have a nosey at this grand old building, the shop and cafe on the top floor are free to visit without a ticket. However, if it’s pouring down outside, the gallery is the perfect place to while away a few hours surrounded by beautiful art and stunning views across the sea.
Carnglaze Caverns
Location: Liskeard, PL14 6HQ
Website
Young kids will love exploring the Carnglaze Caverns, a series of underground disused slate mines. Venture up to 60 metres below ground and learn about Cornwall’s proud mining history while exploring the dramatically lit surroundings, including a beautiful underground lake.
Walking the Caverns usually takes around 30 minutes, but you can combine it with their on-site cafe to make a lovely little stop while passing through, or an excuse to get out of your holiday cottage for lunch even when it’s raining.
No matter what you enjoy, you’re never too far from some rainy day fun! If you’re still looking for inspiration, check out our blog on our favourite Cornwall attractions.