RachelPicture this: Cornwall, with its golden beaches and breathtaking coastal paths, is often bathed in sunshine. However, as an archipelago the bad weather creeps up on us fairly often, to make a frequent appearance. But here’s the thing—rainy days in Cornwall are far from a reason to stay indoors and count the raindrops. In fact, they’re an invitation to discover the county’s equally vibrant indoor scene. Imagine wandering through the world’s largest indoor rainforests or delving into the rich narratives of grand historic estates. Yes, a little Cornish mizzle might just reveal hidden gems we’d miss out on under the endless blue skies. In this blog post today, I’m sharing with you our things to do in Cornwall in the rain. We’ve experienced a fair few I can tell you!
There’s a treasure trove of rainy day activities that laugh in the face of rain here. Take the Eden Project for instance, where enormous domes house exotic plants from all corners of the planet—offering a lush escape from the dreary weather. And for a touch of grandeur, the likes of Lanhydrock House provide a fascinating journey into the past, with their majestic architecture and gardens that seem to sing in the rain. We also love a puddle walk around Trelissick Garden near Truro. They do some great trails in the school holidays to explore! Alternatively, a stomp around the streets of Falmouth, ducking in and out of the cute shops is lots of fun!
Cornwall also serves up a delightful twist on outdoor favourites suited for when the heavens open. Picture yourself aboard a vintage steam train, weaving through the verdant countryside, warm tea in hand—pure bliss and completely sheltered from the elements. So let’s not shy away from a little wet weather; Cornwall’s rainy day repertoire is as rich and inviting as any sunny day adventure.
Discover Unique Museums
In Cornwall, the rain needn’t dampen our spirits, especially with so many intriguing and unique museums to explore. Whether we’re after a slice of local history or want to dive deeper into speciality subjects, there’s a museum for every interest.
Explore the Royal Cornwall Museum
The Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro is the place to be for a comprehensive look at Cornish history and culture. With collections that span from ancient artefacts to modern art, there’s something to pique everyone’s curiosity. They often have things to do for kids in the school holidays as well.
Dive Into History at Bodmin Jail
Bodmin Jail, an imposing former prison turned museum, stands as a chilling reminder of Cornwall’s past. It offers us insight into the darker side of Cornish history with exhibitions on the penal system and tales of the inmates who once resided there. It’s one fo the most haunted places in Cornwall. Top Tip: Perfect for older kids to explore and don’t forget to take a drive by the notorious Jamaica Inn on your way!
Learn and Play at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Set your sights on Falmouth’s National Maritime Museum Cornwall. An interactive space for all ages, it allows us to delve into the maritime history of the region through engaging exhibits and hands-on activities. It’s a perfect rainy day place to visit.
Investigate Geevor Tin Mine
Venture to Pendeen to explore Geevor Tin Mine, one of the largest preserved mine sites in the country. We can walk through the old workings and get a real sense of the mining life that dominated Cornwall for centuries.
Uncover Mysteries at the Museum of Witchcraft
The Museum of Witchcraft in Boscastle houses one of the world’s largest collections of witchcraft-related artefacts. It’s a fascinating spot for us to learn about the magical myths and legends that permeate Cornish folklore.
Experience the Hard Rock Museum
Cornwall’s mining heritage is celebrated at the Hard Rock Museum, where we are transported through the history of mining with impressive displays of geology and mining equipment.
Admire Art at Penlee House Gallery & Museum
Penlee House Gallery & Museum in Penzance is a haven for art lovers, displaying an outstanding collection of works by the Newlyn School and other Cornish artists. It’s perfect for us to admire both historical and contemporary local art.
Visit the Small Museum with Big Stories in St Erth
The Small Museum in St Erth might be modest in size, but it’s rich in stories. Here, we can uncover a treasure trove of artefacts narrating the village’s history and its changes throughout the years.
Explore Cornwall Gold
Lastly, we can’t forget about Cornwall Gold, which provides an insight into the history of Cornish mining with a glittering twist. It’s not just about the past; we can also see the beauty of what was left behind in the form of jewellery and ornaments. It’s a great place to explore and free to enter with a huge car park!
Engaging with Art and Culture
Rainy days in Cornwall are a perfect opportunity for us to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of art and culture that the region offers. From the modern artworks that line the walls of renowned galleries to the inspiring outdoor sculptures, there’s plenty to explore.
Get Inspired at Tate St Ives
At Tate St Ives, we’ll find ourselves captivated by the dynamic range of modern and contemporary art. This iconic gallery not only showcases a diverse spectrum of artworks but also highlights the unique light of Cornwall, which has inspired artists for decades. Art galleries are the best places to keep dry in Cornwall! I would say it’s a better way to keep older children entertained from personal experience.
- Location: St Ives, Cornwall
- Exhibits: Modern British artworks, with a focus on the St Ives School
- Facilities: Café with sea views, shop
Appreciate Exhibits at Falmouth Art Gallery
Falmouth Art Gallery invites us to discover an outstanding collection of art that spans the old and the new. This accessible and family-friendly gallery is free to enter, making art appreciation a feasible activity for all of us.
- Collections: Work by major British artists, including the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society’s Tuke Collection
- Special Feature: Regularly changing exhibitions
Discover Barbara Hepworth’s Sculpture Garden
The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden in West Cornwall allows us to experience the synergy between art and nature. Her famous sculptures are situated in the tranquil garden that was once the artist’s workshop.
- Note: Take an umbrella if it’s drizzling, as the garden is outdoors.
- Insight: Understand Hepworth’s contribution to modernist sculpture.
Explore Contemporary Art at Porthmeor Beach
Lastly, offering shelter from the drizzle, the studios at Porthmeor Beach are a hotbed for contemporary art. We can engage with the art community and sometimes catch artists at work.
- Point of Interest: Enjoy the beachfront scene and the artistic vibe.
- Tip: A great spot for photography, so bring your camera.
Educational Fun for the Family
Rainy days in Cornwall offer a fabulous chance for families to dive into educational activities indoors. We’ve got some top picks where you and your kids can have fun while learning.
Interactive Learning at Blue Reef Aquarium
At Blue Reef Aquarium, we’re talking face-to-face encounters with all sorts of marine life. Imagine gazing at a colourful coral reef or getting up close with sea turtles. Their interactive exhibits are not only engaging, but they also offer a dive into the underwater world, teaching us about ocean conservation along the way.
Exploration at Carnglaze Caverns
Ever wondered what’s beneath our feet? Carnglaze Caverns let us explore ancient subterranean chambers and learn about geology and mining history. It’s cool, literally, and such an adventure for the little ones, as well as a fascinating trip for adults.
Adventures at Paradise Park
Paradise Park is a hit for us because it combines wildlife encounters with the joy of an indoor play area. You can watch your kids’ eyes light up as they spot the colourful birds and then let loose in the play zone. It’s a fantastic spot for family-friendly activities that educate and entertain.
Zoo Day at Newquay Zoo
We can all appreciate a good zoo day, especially at Newquay Zoo, where conservation meets observation. Get to know the animals, and learn about their habitats and the zoo’s efforts to protect wildlife. It’s an experience that’s both heartwarming and informative. We have been on a rainy day and as it’s quite a sheltered zoo we didn’t notice a little rain!
National Lobster Hatchery
Lastly, understanding marine conservation can be quite gripping at the National Lobster Hatchery. It’s not your everyday encounter; we get to see how these crustaceans are bred, raised, and preserved, contributing to local ecology and fisheries.
These destinations offer us a blend of fun and education, perfect for a family day out in Cornwall, even when the rain pours.
Immersive Nature Experiences
When we’re faced with a rainy day in Cornwall, we’ve got some brilliant indoor options that still connect us to the splendour of the natural world.
Escape to Eden Project’s Rainforest Biome
We find ourselves at the Eden Project in the World’s Largest Indoor Rainforest. This Rainforest Biome is a tropical haven where we can wander among lush foliage and exotic plants, completely shielded from the rain outside. It’s more than just a walk; it’s an adventure through diverse ecosystems, each meticulously recreated to represent different global climates.
Lanhydrock House’s Beautiful Gardens
Although a bit more outdoors, the Beautiful Gardens of Lanhydrock House offer us a magnificent peek into Victorian plant life and gardening mastery. Even with a bit of drizzle, we can take in the beauty of the extensive grounds, with its elaborate flower beds and well-manicured lawns giving us plenty of greenery to appreciate.
Indoor Leisure Activities
When the rain pours down in Cornwall, we’ve still got plenty of options to make the most of our time indoors. One prime spot for unwinding in any weather is Mawgan Porth, where we can embrace the warmth and leisure even on the wettest of days.
Relax in Subtropical Mawgan Porth
Mawgan Porth may be known for its stunning beach, but when the wet weather hits, we find sanctuary indoors. Picture us lounging in a steamy hot tub, with the pitter-patter of the rain providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation. The subtropical environment here is a phenomenal contrast to the cooler Cornish climate outside, letting us revel in a bit of warmth while the rain does its thing.
More Rainy Day Excursions
When the weather’s wet, we’ve got just the thing to keep you entertained in Cornwall. From indoor activities that challenge the mind to the quintessential Cornish cream tea, these excursions are perfect for a rainy day.
Solve Puzzles at Local Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are a brilliant way to test our wits and teamwork as we’re locked in a themed room, trying to find our way out by solving puzzles and clues. It’s an indoor adventure that really gets our brains ticking. Cornwall offers several themed escape rooms that provide a thrilling experience away from the rain.
Here is a list of Escape Room Experiences in Cornwall:
1. Escape Time – St Ives
2. DreadLock Escape Rooms – Bodmin
3. Locked In – Escape Rooms Cornwall – Camborne
4. Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms – Newlyn and Helston
5. HouseTrap Escape Rooms – Bodmin
6. Escape Rooms Cornwall – Penzance
7. Eureka Escape Cornwall – Truro and Penzance
8. The Bunker Escape Rooms – Newquay
9. Live Escape Rooms – Victoria, Roche
10. Kernow Escape – Falmouth
Indoor Fun at Country Skittles
At Country Skittles near Hayle, we can enjoy traditional wooden nine-pin skittles, an assortment of games, and good food. It’s a unique indoor entertainment centre set up to resemble a traditional Cornish village, complete with quaint shops and a village pub atmosphere.
- Indoor games include:
- Skittles alleys
- Air hockey
- Pool tables
Enjoy Cornish Cream Tea at a Cosy Tea Room
Nothing says ‘Cornwall’ quite like a Cornish cream tea, and there’s no better place to enjoy this treat than at a local, cosy tea room. Freshly baked scones with clotted cream, strawberry jam, and a pot of hot tea make for a delightful experience. It’s a chance for us to indulge in a little local luxury, chat, and watch the rain drizzle outside.
Here is a list of places to enjoy a cream tea in Cornwall:
1. Miss V’s Tea Room, Roseland
2. Camel Trail Tea Garden, near Bodmin
3. Duchy of Cornwall Nursery, Lostwithiel
4. Dolly’s Tea Room and Wine Bar, Falmouth
5. The Searoom, St Ives
6. Pauline’s Creamery, Newquay
7. The Weir, Bude
8. Martin’s Dairy, Looe
9. Carnewas Tea Room, Bedruthan Steps
10. Woods Café, Cardinham Woods
11. Lamorna Pottery, Lamorna
12. The Greenbank Hotel, Falmouth
13. Ugly Butterfly Restaurant and Bar, Carbis Bay
14. The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth
15. Fowey Hall Hotel, Fowey
16. Trevallick’s Farm Shop & Tea Room, Pensilva
17. Headland Hotel, Newquay
18. The Cosy Nook Café, Crantock
Retail Therapy and Souvenirs
When the Cornish weather dampens our outdoor plans, we take the opportunity to explore the local shops for souvenirs and unique Cornish products. From bustling town centres to quaint gift shops, there’s always a treasure to be found.
Shopping and More at St Austell
St Austell offers a range of shopping experiences, from well-known retail chains to independent boutiques. We can spend hours browsing through a variety of products, including locally-made crafts that serve as perfect mementoes of our time in Cornwall. If you’re after something uniquely Cornish, look out for the distinctive white china clay that’s been mined in St Austell for centuries – it makes for a one-of-a-kind souvenir. It’s also close to the Eden Project and Wheal Martyn Clay Works. These are two great places for kids for entertainment and exploring. Perfect for a day trip in the Cornish inclement weather!
Unique Finds at Truro Cathedral’s Gift Shop
At the heart of Truro, just a stone’s throw from the Cathedral sits its charming gift shop. It’s a haven for us to find everything from handcrafted jewellery to exclusive artwork. On every shelf, we discover items that reflect the beauty and heritage of Truro Cathedral – it’s a shopping experience that enriches our visit and allows us to take a piece of Cornwall’s history home with us.
Historic Cornwall
Even on a rainy day, Cornwall offers us a fascinating journey back in time with its wealth of historic sites. We’ve got options to explore impressive fortresses, grand houses, and quaint manors steeped in history.
Time Travel at St Mawes Castle
Built by Henry VIII, St Mawes Castle is among the best-preserved of his coastal artillery fortresses. Thanks to English Heritage, we can wander through its clover-leaf design and marvel at the detailed carvings that have withstood the tests of time. Pop in your umbrella and let’s get a sense of Tudor military life.
Discover Anthony House & Gardens
At Antony House, we can step into a slice of early 18th-century life. It’s a beautiful place with formal gardens and a significant collection of paintings, tapestries, and furniture. We’ll need to make sure our cameras are waterproof ’cause this National Trust gem is also a filming location for Tim Burton’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’.
Trerice House
We can’t miss Trerice House, a charming Elizabethan manor tucked away in a tranquil Cornish valley. It’s like entering a miniature world of yesteryear with its fine period interiors and peaceful garden. Let’s pull on our wellies and explore the old world elegance that Trerice offers.
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle in Falmouth is an excellent destination for a rainy day visit due to its blend of indoor and outdoor attractions. The castle offers a variety of indoor activities and a guided tour that are perfect for keeping dry while still enjoying a historical experience. For families, the indoor play area is a hit with young children, providing a fun and safe environment even in wet weather. Additionally, the castle’s keep recreates the sights and sounds of its storied past, making it an exciting and educational experience for imaginative kids. Despite some uncovered areas, there is ample indoor space to explore, ensuring that you can enjoy the trip regardless of the weather.
Soft Play Areas In Cornwall
For younger children, it’s a good idea to know where your closest soft play area is in rainy weather. Here is list I’ve put together:
1. Kidzworld Adventure Play – St Austell
2. Newquay Trampoline and Play Park – Newquay
3. Raze The Roof – Penryn
4. Base Camp – Gwel an Mor, Portreath
5. Trethorne Leisure Park – Launceston
6. Paradise Park JungleBarn – Hayle
7. Tredethick Farm Cottages – Lostwithiel
8. One2eleven – Helston
9. Jump4 Trampoline Park – Redruth
10. The Barn Indoor Play Centre – St Columb Major
11. Flambards Indoor Play – Helston
12. Funky Monkeys Soft Play Café – Bodmin
13. Cornwall Services Soft Play – Roche
14. Camel Creek Adventure Park – Wadebridge
15. Dairyland Farm Park – Newquay
Conclusion
In Cornwall, the rain needn’t stop our fun. We’ve got a trove of indoor and outdoor spots that are just perfect when the skies open. Museums, arts and crafts, and vibrant cafes become cosy refuges for the whole family.
For starters, Wheal Martyn in St Austell is a fantastic place, showcasing Cornwall’s china clay mining heritage. It’s a mix of sheltered and open-air exhibits, and we’ve found it’s incredibly dog-friendly too! The Eden Project, a prime example of sustainability, is a brilliant go-to. The colossal biomes shelter us while offering a world of greenery from rainforests to Mediterranean landscapes, making it one of the best things to see.
Whether we’re ducking out of a shower or planning a day around the forecast, these places are a perfect place for both adults and kids. Let’s keep our spirits high and experience the best of Cornwall, whatever the weather.
National Trust Lanhydrock
