Rainy Day Activities in Cornwall
If the weather outside is frightful, fear not because there is still plenty to keep the whole family occupied during a drizzly spell in Cornwall.
We’ve picked out some popular indoor activities to help stave away those rainy day blues.
Carnglaze Caverns, near St Neot
Set amongst acres of ancient oak woodland in the steep-sided Loveny Valley, Carnglaze Caverns are three man-made grottos, the lowest of which has a stunning crystal clear, aquamarine lake. The first of the caverns is known as the Rum Store, so called because it was commandeered by the Royal Navy during the second world war and used as an underground hideaway for the fleets’ precious supply of liquor. Affiliated to the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, a tour of the caverns offers you a unique insight into the miners’ way of life and takes you down some sixty metres beneath the earth.
Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
Home to more than forty naturally-themed habitats, Newquay’s Blue Reef Aquarium takes you on a oceanic journey from the wild Cornish coast to exotic reefs and tropical oceans. You’ll be able to get up close and personal to some of the aquarium’s beguiling residents, from freshwater turtles and caiman crocodilians to pufferfish and lionfish. Walk the underwater tunnel and go face-to-face with the giant pacific octopus.
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Bodmin & Wenford Railway
We’re all aboard a Bodmin & Wenford steam locomotive for a fascinating trip along the historic Bodmin branch line. This wonderful family attraction captures the romance of a bygone era accompanied by rolling views of the beautiful Cornish countryside. Passenger train services run from February to October, just pick up a timetable and ‘choo choose’. You can even sit down to a Sunday lunch or evening meal on one of the railway’s dining carriages.
Eden Project, near St Blazey
It’s the largest indoor rainforest in the world and a great day out for all the family. The Eden Project has been dubbed the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’, its iconic biome domes a habitat for thousands of plant species, the largest of which stimulates a rainforest environment. Nestled into a crater the size of thirty football pitches, this spectacular ‘global garden’ has to be seen to be believed!
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National Trust Houses in Cornwall
Cornwall has a captivating choice of country estates and historic manor houses to explore, from the high-Victorian style of Lanhydrock to the rambling stone walls and antiquarian refinement of Cotehele.
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Tate St Ives Gallery
Dramatic Atlantic views provide the perfect backdrop for the iconic Tate St Ives gallery, a hotbed for art and creativity. Here, you’ll be able to lose yourself among spellbinding collections and displays from some of the country’s leading artists while admiring a host of captivating art movements.
Bodmin Jail, Bodmin
You’re invited back to a grievous past to discover what life was like behind bars in an 18th century prison in the heart of Cornwall. Described as ‘fun, gripping and just a little bit scary’, a trip to Bodmin Jail offers a fascinating insight into Victorian Cornwall and what happened when you were caught on the wrong side of the law. Built from more than 20,000 tons of Bodmin granite, the jail spans six levels; its cold, dank cells allowing only a glimpse of daylight as inmates toiled with days of hard labour. Some would never leave, either succumbing to the brutal nature of the regime or left swinging from the hangman’s noose.
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Granite Planet, Penryn
Why not go up in the world with a trip to the Granite Planet climbing wall. With over 140 different climbs, a traverse room and bouldering cave, there’s plenty of opportunity for all the family to scale some dizzy heights. Taster sessions are available and qualified instructors are on hand to take you through the basics.
Paradise Park, Hayle
Paradise Park’s ‘JungleBarn’ is an indoor play centre with giant slides, soft play, and a toddlers’ zone with ball fountain – guaranteed fun whatever the weather. Sit back while the kids go ape.
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The National Lobster Hatchery, Padstow
As a world centre of expertise, The National Lobster Hatchery is the place to go for all things ‘lobster’. Enjoy a fascinating glimpse into the world of this captivating crustacean when you explore the visitors centre with its brilliant viewing portals where you can go nose to tentacle with your friends from the deep.
Or stay warm, cosy and dry in the comfort of your Cornish holiday cottage!