The Best Family Things to Do in Cornwall, England 

With plenty of things on offer, you might need help planning your family trip. So, check out our guide to some of the best family things to do in Cornwall, England.

Enjoy the Beaches 

Cornwall has some of the UK's most beautiful beaches, which makes it a favourite place for families to visit. The best part is that you will find numerous places to stay by the sea, giving you easy access to these beaches.

One of Cornwall's gems is Fistral Beach in Newquay, renowned for its vast expanse of sand and excellent surfing conditions. Here, adventurous kids can enjoy surfing, while the little ones can paddle in shallow waters or explore rock pools during low tide.

Head south, where you'll find Perranporth Beach, with its expansive shoreline ideal for sandcastle building and beach games. Children can also explore the tidal pool and caves, adding a sense of adventure to their seaside experience. Nearby facilities ensure convenience for families.

For those seeking a quieter retreat, Porthcurno Beach, nestled between towering cliffs, provides a picturesque setting with calm waters perfect for swimming and gentle waves for novice surfers. The Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs above, offers an opportunity for cultural exploration amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Polzeath Beach is another family favourite, offering a sheltered bay ideal for swimming and rock pooling. Its shallow waters make it safe for young children, while older ones can try surfing or bodyboarding under the watchful eye of lifeguards.

Cornwall also boasts plenty of family-friendly group accommodations right by the beach to unwind after a day of seaside adventures. It's the ideal way to finish the day, with the sounds of the waves while you sleep and the promise of more coastal discovery tomorrow.

Learn to Surf

Cornwall is home to Newquay, the UK's surfing capital, making it an ideal place to learn to surf. It benefits from consistent Atlantic swells that provide ideal conditions for surfing. With numerous beaches along its rugged coastline, it boasts a variety of waves suitable for beginners, allowing ample opportunities for kids to practice and improve their skills.

Cornwall's numerous surfing schools have experienced instructors who specialise in teaching kids. They are adept at creating a safe and supportive learning environment, focusing on technique, safety, and fun. They often use specialised equipment such as soft-top surfboards, which are more forgiving for beginners.

In addition, many of Cornwall's surfing beaches have lifeguards on duty during peak seasons, providing an added layer of safety for children learning to surf. These professionals help ensure that kids can enjoy the waves with peace of mind, knowing that help is readily available.

Cornwall has a vibrant surfing community with a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Kids learning to surf will find support from fellow enthusiasts of all ages, creating a supportive and encouraging environment that fosters learning and camaraderie.

Flambards Theme Park

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Cornwall, Flambards Theme Park is a must-visit for every family. It has thrilling rides and captivating exhibitions to delight adults and kids. The park's diverse attractions cater to all interests, from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to exhilarating rides and immersive historical exhibits.

Delve into Cornwall's rich heritage at the Victorian Village, explore the fascinating Aviation Experience, or embark on an adventure through the Jurassic Journey, where life-sized dinosaurs roam freely.

Among the park's highlights are its family-friendly entertainment. With dedicated play areas for younger kids, gentle rides suitable for all ages, and live shows that captivate audiences of all sizes, Flambards boasts an inclusive atmosphere where families can have fun.

What's great is that Flambards prioritises safety and accessibility, providing facilities and services that cater to the needs of families with children of varying ages.

Whether you're seeking excitement, education, or entertainment in a welcoming and accessible environment, Flambards is a fantastic place to take your kids.

Newquay Zoo

Offering a captivating wildlife experience to delight kids of all ages, the Newquay Zoo is an exceptional destination for families. Surrounded by lush grounds, the zoo is home to a diverse array of animals from around the globe, providing an immersive opportunity for families to observe and learn about wildlife conservation. 

Newquay Zoo showcases different species, from majestic big cats to playful primates and colourful birds, housed in carefully designed habitats that mimic their natural environments. What sets the zoo apart is its commitment to education and conservation. Through engaging exhibits, informative talks, and interactive experiences, the zoo fosters a deeper understanding of nature and the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats.

Newquay Zoo offers enrichment opportunities for families through feeding sessions, animal encounters, and themed events. Moreover, the zoo provides family-friendly amenities such as play areas, cafes, and picnic spots, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Eden Project

The Eden Project is one of Cornwall's most popular family-friendly attractions, offering families a captivating and educational experience amidst its iconic biomes and lush gardens. At the heart of the Eden Project are its spectacular biomes, which house excellent varieties of plant species from diverse climates and regions.

Among the Ende Project's highlights is the Rainforest Biome, with its soaring canopy and steamy atmosphere, transporting visitors to tropical landscapes filled with exotic plants and cascading waterfalls. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean Biome showcases the flora of arid regions, mimicking the sights and scents of the Mediterranean basin.

Eden Project offers numerous interactive and educational activities to spark curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. Children can embark on sensory journeys, exploring the sights and sounds of different ecosystems or participating in hands-on workshops and demonstrations led by knowledgeable guides and educators.
In addition, the Eden Project offers family-friendly amenities and attractions, including play areas, cafes, and picnic spots nestled amidst the stunning botanical landscapes. Parents and kids can wander through winding pathways, discovering hidden corners and breathtaking vistas, or relax and enjoy the tranquillity of nature in this spectacular setting.