RachelAs the May half-term approaches, we’re excitedly piecing together the best family-friendly activities in Cornwall. This beautiful area buzzes with excitement during the break, offering a wealth of events and attractions that are sure to make our family outings unforgettable.
We’re eager to wander through Cornwall’s magical woodlands and immerse ourselves in the vibrant local culture, with a variety of experiences suitable for all ages.
This half-term, we’re on the lookout for fun activities that are more than just entertaining for the kids – we want them to learn something new too. Cornwall always comes through, particularly with famous spots like the Eden Project, which are planning special happenings focused on bees, nature, and community. With a mix of educational and fun activities available, we’re ready to embrace all that Cornwall has to offer this half-term.
Eden Project
Plus, Cornwall’s allure in May is simply magnetic, with gentler weather and blooming landscapes providing the perfect setting for any outdoor escapade. Whether it’s exploring the coastline, discovering historical sites, or participating in half-term-specific events, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting family memories.
We can’t wait to discover the treasures that make Cornwall an unforgettable place for half-term!
Cornwall’s Top Family Attractions
These are the best places to captivate the whole family!
Camel Creek Adventure Park
Camel Creek Adventure Park is an ideal spot for a fun day with the family. It caters extensively to children of primary school age with a variety of over 40+ thrilling rides and attractions. It’s a great theme park experience in Cornwall’s scenic backdrop ensuring a great day out for both kids and adults.
- Rides: Family-friendly coasters, water rides, and gentler options for younger children.
- Activities: Interactive play areas including Toddler Cottages. New for 2024 are Merlin’s Magical Playground, Shipwreck Shores and The Hidden Garden Play & Cafe.
May Half Term Week – Week of Wizardry
27th -31st May 2024
Calling all Wizards, Witches and Mythical Dragons! Join them this May Half Term for an extraordinary journey through the realms of Myths and Legends!
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Situated in Falmouth, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall offers a fascinating journey through the maritime heritage of the region. It’s not just for adults; children are captivated by the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
- Exhibits: Explore boats, learn about maritime history and engage in family activities.
- Location Highlight: Overlooking the scenic harbour and close to sandy beaches, perfect for a stroll.
May Half Term Week – Rock Pool Explorers
Saturday 25th May – Sunday 2nd June 2024
Dive into The Rock Pool Project’s mobile rock pool and discover the curious creatures found on our Cornish coast, get creative in Make & Take and join the Museum trail to help us find all the hidden rock pool creatures.
Lappa Valley
Cornwall’s Secret World of Play and Trains! Go on nostalgic train rides. Discover the boating lake and adventure golf course. Outdoor adventures to indoor fun. From musical trails to woodland walks, there’s plenty of fun to be had on the 35-acre site!
Paradise Park and JungleBarn
At Paradise Park and JungleBarn, we discover wildlife and adventure combined into one. Renowned as a top family attraction, it’s home to a stunning array of birds and other creatures, offering educational fun activities alongside indoor play.
- Wildlife: Home to an impressive collection of birds and animated dinosaurs.
- Indoor Play: The JungleBarn provides an all-weather fun space, great for burning off energy.
Daily quizzes, goat and sheep feeding, eagles on display, feeding the little Lorikeet parrots, penguin feeding, a Free Flying Bird Show and more!
Flambards
A place with many fun things to do for the whole family. Lots of amazing rides and attractions! Don’t miss the award-winning indoor attractions and step back in time. Explore the cobbled streets of the life-sized Victorian Village and visit over 50 sets and scenes filled with over 50,000 genuine artefacts! It’s a great place to go in the school holidays and Cornwall’s top tourist attractions!
Dairyland Farm Park
There are lots of things to see and do at Dairyland Farm Park, including tractor and pony rides, wildlife trails, trampolines, and great indoor fun in The Bull Pen!
May Half Term – Little Farmer Fun Week
25th May – 2nd June 2024
Wheal Martyn
Wheal Martyn is a museum telling the story of china clay mining. They are based in around 26 acres of grounds with working waterwheels, pumps and buildings. There is a lovely cafe and gift shop on site as well as woodland to explore.
May Half Term – Wheal Martyn is about to welcome hundreds of baby frogs! To help celebrate, why not paint a frog flowerpot or create your own frog image on a tile or sculpt in air-dry clay this half-term. Have fun and take your creation home to remember your visit. No need to book – drop in anytime!
The National Lobster Hatchery
The National Lobster Hatchery, a Cornish marine conservation charity, has been named the Best Family Attraction in Cornwall in the 2024 Muddy Stilettos Awards.
Situated in picturesque Padstow on the waterfront, the Hatchery and its lobsters have captured the love of locals and visitors alike. A unique attraction, the Hatchery gives visitors the chance to delve into the world of lobsters and learn more about conservation and marine life in Cornwall.
Nicola O’Donnell, Chief Operations Officer of the charity, said: “We are over the moon to receive the Muddy Stilettos Best Family Attraction Award for Cornwall. It feels incredible to have the hard work of our team recognised by our visitors.”
With the arrival of spring and summer, excitement builds at the Hatchery as it enters peak hatching season, welcoming thousands of lobster babies each day. This period offers guests a thrilling opportunity to witness the miracle of life up close.
“We invite families to join us during this exciting time and witness the magic of our baby lobsters!” said O’Donnell. “Our visitors play a vital role in supporting the work we do, and we hope that this award will attract even more people to experience the wonders of The National Lobster Hatchery.”
For more information on the National Lobster Hatchery, and to book tickets, head to their website: https://nationallobsterhatchery.co.uk/
Discovering Cornwall’s Gardens
You are in for a treat this May half term, as Cornwall’s gardens are in full bloom, offering a fantastic array of both native and exotic flora. Whether you’re keen to explore the wild side of ancient woodlands or indulge in the colourful displays of formal gardens, Cornwall has something special for everyone.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Rediscovering the Lost Gardens of Heligan is like stepping into a hidden world of horticultural wonder. Restored after decades of neglect, these beautiful gardens boast a variety of landscapes ranging from intricate formal gardens to lush, ancient woodlands and wild meadows. Let’s wander through the Victorian Productive Gardens and the romantic Pleasure Grounds, marvelling at the fascinating plant life that has been preserved. This is one of our favourite places to visit in Cornwall!
- Key features: Exotic jungle, exotic gardens, Burma rope bridge, ancient woodland, rare animal projects, and an amazing children’s play area including a jumping pillow!
- Location: Near Mevagissey, St Austell
- Highlight: World-famous collection of camellias and rhododendrons – a truly beautiful place to visit.
May Half Term Week – Wild Week
25th May – 2nd June 2024
This much-loved event returns to Heligan this May half term. Run free, connect with nature, leave the modern world at home, and give in to our wild sides. Come along to hone your survival skills and enjoy a week of creative outdoor play in your favourite habitat of Heligan. Face painting, music, crafts and more!
Heligan Gardens Play Field
Eden Project
At the Eden Project, you are transported to different world climates, housed within dramatic Biomes. The stunning structures hold a diverse range of environments, from a humid rainforest to the mild climate of the Mediterranean landscapes. It’s not just beautiful, it’s educational too, teaching us the importance of plants to our world. Watch out for their special events, celebrating the beauty and diversity of nature during half term.
- Key features: Rainforest Biome, Mediterranean Biome, educational focus
- Location: Bodelva, St Austell
- Highlight: Experience a unique journey through world climates
May Half Term – Festival of Imagination
25th May – 2nd June
A week packed with music, art, literature and interactive experiences for all ages.
Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens
A visit to Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens feels like walking in an enchanted world, right on the Cornish coast by the Helford River. With Trebah being a sub-tropical paradise with a stunning coastal backdrop, and Glendurgan (National Trust) boasting its mesmerizing cherry laurel maze, there’s plenty to explore. Both gardens offer a lovely day out bursting with vibrant colours and exciting plant species to discover. They are right next door to one another!
- Key features: Colourful gardens, exotic species, coastal views
- Location: Near Falmouth
- Highlight: Trebah’s private beach and Glendurgan’s laurel maze
Trebah Gardens
Glendurgan Garden
Trelissick Garden
Trelissick Garden is located in Feock, a small village near Truro in Cornwall. It is situated on the banks of the River Fal. It offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding countryside. The magnificent garden is well-cared for and presented, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.
Trelissick Garden
Adventure on the Coast
Embarking on coastal adventures during the May half term is a splendid way for us and our families to engage with nature. Let’s explore the sandy beaches and rugged cliffs of Cornwall, where activities abound for all ages.
South West Coast Path
We can’t recommend the South West Coast Path enough for keen walkers and hikers. It’s a haven for us to take in breathtaking vistas and discover countless small secret coves. From the dramatic cliffs at Sennen Cove to the wild beauty of North Cornwall, the path offers miles of natural splendour. For a memorable walk, try the stretch from Sennen Cove to St Ives, where the blue flag beaches and open water create a captivating backdrop.
- Distance to Cover: There are various lengths; pick a section that suits our pace and time.
- Scenery: Golden sands, hidden coves, and the expanse of the azure sea.
Surfing Lessons in St Ives and Perranporth
St Ives is a sanctuary for surfers with its clear waters and consistent waves. Here, you can grab a board and join surfing lessons, suitable for all family members, even if we’ve never ridden a wave before. St Ives’ reputable surf schools provide a safe and exhilarating introduction to this popular sport. As well as Perranporth Surf School.
- Schools to Check Out: St Ives Surf School, Porthmeor Surf School, Perranporth Surf School
- Suitability: From beginners to advanced
You may also like: Best Surfing Beaches in Cornwall
Perranporth Beach
Beach Days and Rock Pooling
When the tide is low, the shores of Cornwall reveal their treasures. It’s a delight to spend days on sandy beaches, building sandcastles and exploring the marine life in rock pools at Crantock. Blue flag beaches like those in Sennen Cove are known for their cleanliness and safety, ensuring a perfect spot for us and the kids to enjoy.
- Best Time for Rock Pooling: Low tide
- What to Spot: Crabs, starfish, small fish, and anemones
Beaches for the best day out:
- Sennen Cove: Miles of golden sands and lively rock pools.
- St Ives: Sandy beaches and opportunities for water sports activities. Great food scene.
- Perranporth: Miles of golden sand, a great village with plenty of shops, plus a pub on the beach!
Cultural Experiences
May half term brings a wonderful opportunity to immerse ourselves in Cornwall’s rich cultural tapestry. From the drama of the coastline to the colourful creativity of its art scene and the historical depth of its museums, there is plenty to stimulate minds and hearts.
Minack Theatre
At the Minack Theatre, you can experience live performances in a breathtaking setting. This unique open-air theatre is perched on the cliffs above the Atlantic, offering a dramatic backdrop to every show. It hosts a range of productions, from Shakespeare to modern musicals, and is a testament to one woman’s vision turned into a cultural landmark. You won’t want to miss the chance to see a play under the stars!
- Location: Porthcurno, Penzance, Cornwall
- Upcoming Performances: Varied programme including plays, musicals and live music events. See their website for further details.
Minack Theatre
St Ives Art Scene
St Ives is a haven for art lovers, renowned for its art galleries and artist studios. Walking through the quaint streets, you can drop into various galleries highlighting modern and contemporary art, many influenced by the unique Cornish light and landscape. Morning is the perfect time to explore, culminating in visits to the Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum.
- Notable Galleries: Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
- Featured Artists: Local and internationally acclaimed artists
Royal Cornwall Museum
Let’s step into the Royal Cornwall Museum to delve into Cornwall’s intriguing Cornish history and industrial heritage. You will find collections that span the ages, from ancient artefacts to exhibits on tin mining and the county’s maritime adventures. It’s an ideal place for curious minds of all ages.
- Exhibits: Cornish history, geology, art collection
- Special Features: Hands-on activities and educational workshops
Historic Landmarks and Castles
As you explore Cornwall during the May half term, you are presented with a chance to step back in time. The county’s historic landmarks and castles are not just architectural wonders; they offer a glimpse into the region’s rich past. From the rugged cliffs of the north coast to the more sheltered southern shores, these sites serve as a testament to Cornwall’s strategic importance and its myths and legends.
Pendennis Castle
Location: Falmouth, South side of Cornwall
Pendennis Castle stands proudly on a headland near Falmouth, offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea. Built by Henry VIII, it has defended the coast for over 450 years. It’s a fantastic example of a fortress adapted over time, with features dating from the Tudor period up to the First and Second World Wars. Visiting us offers a dive into military history and a walk around well-preserved ramparts.
St Michael’s Mount
Location: Accessible from Marazion, North coast during low tide
St Michael’s Mount rises from the sea, crowned by a medieval church and castle with a lineage as storied as the island itself. Treasured as a historical landmark, it’s accessible by foot along a cobbled causeway at low tide or by boat when the tide is high. You can walk across the causeway like pilgrims of old, immerse yourself in the legend of the Archangel Michael, and enjoy the subtropical gardens.
Tintagel Castle
Location: Near Tintagel Village, North Coast
Linked heavily with the myths and legends of King Arthur, Tintagel Castle is a place that you can’t resist visiting if you cherish history entwined with legend. Dramatically located on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, the ruins evoke a sense of mystery. You can cross the new footbridge to the island and explore the remains of the castle, gaining insights into the early medieval life of its inhabitants.
Quaint Fishing Villages To Visit
| Village | Description |
|---|---|
| Mousehole | One of Cornwall’s most picturesque and best-loved fishing villages. |
| Mevagissey | A charming village with a working harbour and a rich history of boat building. |
| Port Isaac | Famous for its beautiful harbour and as the filming location for the TV series “Doc Martin”. |
| Polperro | Enchanting village with narrow winding streets and cottages overlooking a tiny harbour. |
| Boscastle | Known for its medieval past and dramatic landscape. |
| Mullion | The largest village on the Lizard Peninsula, offering stunning scenery. |
| Sennen Cove | A small coastal community with a beautiful beach and scenic harbour. |
| Charlestown | A historic port with tall ships and a rich maritime heritage. |
| St Ives | Noted for its vibrant arts scene and Caribbean-like beaches. |
| Cadgwith | A quaint village featuring thatched cottages and a picturesque cove. |
Outdoor and Wildlife Adventures
Whether you are traversing nature trails, observing birds in their natural habitat, or exploring the varied landscapes of Bodmin Moor, the focus is on conservation and the sheer joy of experiencing wildlife in its natural setting.
Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves
You will find yourself spoilt for choice with the many Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves that Cornwall has to offer. These reserves are a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, with each location offering unique opportunities for wildlife spotting:
- Bodmin Moor: Renowned for its rugged beauty, Bodmin Moor is home to fascinating moorland habitats. While you traverse the walking trails, you can keep your eyes peeled for the variety of bird species and other wildlife that thrive here.
- Golitha Falls Nature Trails: Travelling along these trails, you might catch glimpses of elusive otters or salmon and sea trout in the river. Amongst the beautiful backdrop of the ancient woodland, you will see bluebells and wood anemones.
Screech Owl Sanctuary
The Screech Owl Sanctuary is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts. Here, we’re offered a rare glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures:
- Bird Watching: With dedicated bird-watching sessions, we’re privy to observing these nocturnal birds up close. We also get to learn about their habits and the sanctuary’s crucial conservation work.
- Wild Side: It’s not just owls; the sanctuary cares for a variety of bird species, each with their own wild appeal that leaves us with a deeper appreciation for these winged wonders.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
The SEA LIFE TRUST Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a charity that rescues and rehabilitates grey seal pups from around the Cornish coastline. There is lots to see and do and experiences!
New for Spring 2024 they have recently welcomed ten beautiful Icelandic rescue puffins to the Sanctuary.
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Cornwall’s Coastal Paths
No exploration of Cornwall’s outdoor and wildlife offerings would be complete without a mention of the coastal paths:
- Walking Trails and Coastal Views: The trails wind through some of the most beautiful places in the region, treating us to stunning coastal views and fresh sea air.
- Wildlife Spotting: Along the way, we anticipate delightful moments of wildlife spotting, where seals, dolphins, and an assortment of bird life can be seen from the clifftops and coves.
Festivals and Events
Live Music and Performances, Food and Drink Fairs
The Great Estate Festival
31st May- 2nd June 2024
Visit the stunning “Garden Fete” at Scorrier House this May Half Term. Expect major international headline acts and a mix of comedy, theatre, music and the arts, all within the beautiful grounds of Scorrier Estate!
Green Man Weekend
Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May – 10 am to 4 pm
This year is the 9th annual Green Man event at Mount Edgcumbe and will be a fantastic mix of entertainment provided by local bands circus acts, Morris dancers, re-enactment groups and much more to keep you entertained.
Once again traditional family activities will be running throughout the event along with food and craft stalls. Wood-turning crafts in the Barrow Centre, bouncy castles, a beer tent, and the obligatory hog roast. Lots of fun for visitors of all ages!
Reggae in the Park – brought to you by Miss Ivy Events
Saturday 1st June – 12noon to 10.00pm
Get ready to sway to the rhythm & beats, feeling the island vibes at the Second Annual Rum & Reggae Festival, in the idyllic location of Mount Edgcumbe (Barrow Field).
Caribbean Family Fun Day – brought to you by Miss Ivy Events
Sunday 2nd June – 10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Get ready for a day filled with excitement, music, and delicious Caribbean flavours and street food at Mount Edgecumbe. This family-friendly event has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable day out for all ages.
Checking Attraction Websites
Lastly, remember to check the latest news and updates on the websites. Things can quickly change down here with the weather!
Please check opening times, any special events, and ticketing details before you visit.
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