There are some things that immediately spring to mind when you think of Cornwall; ice cream at the beach, rock pooling, running around beautiful gardens and the Cornish sun never waning. Cornwall has a timeless quality that calls people back time and time again, and there are endless ways to entertain yourself.
Children have it best in Cornwall; there is so much for them to see and do, and so many places to go. Family-friendly holidays in Cornwall have always been popular, so we have put together the best child-friendly places to go in Cornwall when staying at our luxury cottages.
Some places you may already know of, and hopefully, there will be a few surprises on our list too!
There is something very exciting about being at the very end of the British mainland. The craggy coastline of Land’s End is full of legend and mystery. The area is well known for the wildlife and coastal scenery, and you must get your picture with the iconic sign!
Nearby our cottages is the lovely town of Falmouth, another great place to explore. At the harbour’s edge is the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, an inspiring place for kids.
There are boats of all sizes hanging in the main hall, fascinating stories to learn and several exhibitions to see. The exhibitions rotate throughout the year, so each time you visit you are sure to see something new.
* Due to current COVID-19 concerns, you must pre-book a timed arrival slot to visit the National Maritime Museum. A one-way system is in place throughout the Museum for your safety.
If you want to get lost in a world of wonder and adventure, then head to the Lost Gardens of Heligan. Close to St Austell, the garden has amazing sculptures, gorgeous plants and flowers, many of them tropical, and wildlife to spot within the foliage.
In the coming months, the garden turns from green to the red, golden and orange hues of autumn, making this a garden worth visiting no matter what time of year it is.
* Currently, pre-booking a timed arrival slot is required for visiting the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Charlestown is a Cornish fishing village, not far from St Austell, that celebrates an interesting history. The picturesque village has a few places that are great for kids; most prominent is the Shipwreck and Heritage Centre.
There are lots of artefacts that have been collected over the last 50 years, which help to form the stories about shipwrecks, smuggling, fishing and the mining industry. Learning about Cornwall’s maritime history is a fun and educational way to pass the time.
* In line with government guidelines, visitors will be required to wear a face mask when visiting the museum. The museum is operating a one-way system to make the experience safer.
Dairy Land is a fun and unique attraction near Newquay. There are plenty of animals to meet, where children can get involved during feeding time.
There is also a large indoor play area for when the weather is cold or raining, making Dairy Land a great place for a day out in Cornwall.
* CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO COVID-19
Instead, the premises is currently being used as a family-friendly drive in cinema, with films like Toy Story 2 and Avengers Assemble being shown in the day and evening. For more information and tickets, check out Newquay Drive In.
Tanglewood Wild Gardens is the place to go to get back to nature. In contrast to the usual manicured and formal gardens found in Cornwall, Tanglewood goes back to the basics.
You can really get in touch with nature here as you look around for the wildlife, and sit and enjoy a picnic and family time when the weather is good. Another fantastic garden with a twist is Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, combining art installations with beautiful gardens.
The National Trust House near Newquay gives you the chance to step back in time. Trerice hosts Tudor games such as ‘kayling’ and archery in the gardens, and children can try on Tudor armour and explore the house. Trerice is not the only historic house and garden in Cornwall worth visiting; others include: Lanhydrock, Cotehele, Pencarrow and Glendurgan.
* Currently, only the gardens, carpark and toilets are open to the public. Pre-booking your visit is currently essential.
The National Lobster Hatchery is a marine conservation and education charity at Padstow. You can see the lobsters getting ready to be released along with the resident giant lobsters and spider crabs.
The hatchery also has a wealth of information on lobsters and the marine conservation they do around Cornwall, and provides activities for people of all ages who visit. If you want to know more, there is also ‘Meet the Expert’ tours.
* The National Lobster Hatchery is currently closed due to COVID-19. Check their Facebook page for updates.
Steam railways are timeless fun the whole family can enjoy, so why not head to Lappa Valley when on your holiday to Cornwall? The steam railway has lots of activities available, including a pirate ship, nature trails and crazy golf along with a ride on the steam train itself.
There is the 7 1/4 inch gauge miniature railway for a short circular ride and the 10 1/4 inch gauge railway that starts from East Wheal Rose.
* Currently, pre-booking is essential to allow safe social distancing.
What other fantastic places do you like visiting in Cornwall? Let us know over our social media channels!
THE VALLEY is proud to be the only 5 Star Gold Self Catering holiday village of its size in the whole of Cornwall
