We moved to Cornwall – and Glynn Barton specifically – so that we could spend a whole lot more time together as a family! So on those days we’re not all working here together we’ve enjoyed a LOT of fantastic adventures with the boys, especially now they’re a little bit older. This county really was made for kids!
So if you’re planning your Cornish getaway, go grab a cuppa and work your way through our list of great family days out – get your holiday started here!
Take the woodland walk to the 60 foot waterfall which is one of Cornwalls’ most hidden gems. The walk to the waterfall requires trainers or wellies as weather dependent there will be mud! It is not suitable for pushchairs. They have a café onsite for ice creams and cake after.
Ever fancied yourself as King Arthur’s trusty sidekick? Tintagel Castle is a great one!! Its not for the faint hearted though as the bridge has the most spectacular view- just don’t look down! Run by English Heritage (don’t forget your membership card!) walk across the bridge to imagine yourself as a knight at the table, walk down to Merlin’s cave and meet the King himself. There are steep steps involved so it is for the fit and able.
Top Tip: Park at St Marteriana’s church and make the short walk along the South West Coastal Path to the Castle.
This covers all ages and is great if you have different ages to accommodate. The thrill seeking teens can head off to the Skyforce and Skyraker whilst those with slightly shorter legs can enjoy the Cornwall Eye, the Carousel and the Dino Express. They have a number of indoor attractions too for rainy days in Cornwall such as the Victorian Village and War gallery. They have plenty of cafés/ fast food outlets and large picnic areas too for BYO.
A Castle, Gardens, a Church and a Causeway! Owned by the St Aubyn Family and the National Trust the island is run in tandem. If you time it right, at low tide you can walk to and from the castle across the causeway. Don’t worry you won’t get stranded it just means a short boat ride in either direction. It’s also a great place to explore and learn on a paddleboard. Check out Oceans High in Mounts Bay. There is a café on the island as well as a street food van in the car park.
Top Tip: CHECK THE TIDE TIMES!!!
This is a real experience for any age. There is lots to see and do for everyone from checking out the history of the museum to following in the footsteps of men and boys from over 200 years ago. Walk through the underground tunnels to experience it first hand, pan for gold and finish up with a piece of cake from the café.
Top Tip: You don’t have to visit the Mine to go to the café!
Endless trampolines for games of dodgeball, airbags for giant jumps or just jumping around. Great fun for all the family. They have different sessions based on age too. Great fun rainy day activity.
A new and immersive experience. (renovated finally and reopened in 2021) Its recommended for over 8’s due to the nature of the exhibits. Follow the dark walk going back in time or walk the walk of the condemned! There is a tavern onsite too if you can stomach lunch after. Either that, nip back to Glynn Barton and pop the pizza oven on!
Top Tip: Parking can be tricky at the jail but Sainsburys allow 2 hours free parking
Don’t worry it’s not quite locked in Cornwall but a great fun game for the whole family to enjoy. Family friendly escape rooms for you to challenge, find clues and work together to solve the puzzle and escape.
There really is so very much for families to do here, in fact we’ve had to split this post into two! And if you’re heading our way with little littles, check out our Ultimate Baby and Toddler Friendly Guide to Cornwall (Part 1).
