Cornwall is the home of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. In this travel guide, we’ve rounded up 50 must-do activities in Cornwall, from exploring its picturesque beaches and quaint villages to discovering hidden gems. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, this beautiful corner of England is packed with unforgettable experiences. Get ready to embark on your own Cornish adventure today!
P.S. Make sure to scroll all the way down so you don’t miss some of these AMAZING ideas!
01. Sunset at Lusty Glaze Beach, Newquay
Watching the sunset on Lusty Glaze Beach in Newquay is a magical experience, especially during the hotter months. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is filled with vibrant hues for hours on end, it’s the perfect place for an evening picnic. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing walk along the shore or simply sitting back with a drink, this stunning view offers a memorable way to end a summer day in Cornwall. Newquay has lots of beaches along the same coastline that you can walk between and choose a favourite. In the evening, they are often more vacant yet still warm and pleasant, making this a budget friendly activity!
02. Take in The View at Tintagel Castle
Visiting Tintagel Castle in Cornwall offers breath taking views of the rugged coastline, making it a dramatic, must-see destination year-round. The cliffs and ancient ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s legendary past, with the stunning scenery changing with each season. Whether you’re exploring in the warmth of summer or wrapped up against the winter chill, Tintagel Castle’s beauty and history are sure to captivate at any time of year – especially for any photography lovers out there!
03. Visit The Eden Project
The Eden Project in Cornwall is an exciting and educational destination for families, offering a unique opportunity to explore lush biomes filled with diverse plant life from around the world. With interactive exhibits, outdoor gardens, and hands-on activities, there’s something to engage visitors of all ages. If you are a solo traveller in Cornwall this year – don’t be put off by the marketing to younger children, the spacious grounds and beautiful cafe’s offer lots to do for all travellers. Tickets for the Eden Project start at around £30 for adults, with discounted prices available for children and families, making it an affordable and memorable day out.
https://www.edenproject.com/visit/book-tickets: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year04. Surf Lessons on Polzeath Beach
Taking surfing lessons at Polzeath Beach in Cornwall is a fantastic summer activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Whether you want to take part, or simply supervise and have a quiet moment to yourself, it’s a lovely, safe beach that puts you at ease. The beach is known for its gentle waves, making it the perfect spot for beginners to catch their first ride with the help of experienced instructors. Whether you’re a child or an adult, surfing at Polzeath offers an exciting way to bond, have fun, and make lasting memories by the sea.
05. Explore The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Visiting the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall is perfect for lovers of nature. In the town of St Austell, the formal gardens offer visitors the chance to explore beautifully restored land, hidden woods, and make up some of Cornwall’s most stunning landscapes. It’s a fun activity for all ages, with plenty of paths to wander and secret spots to discover. Tickets for the Lost Gardens of Heligan are priced at around £20 for adults, with discounts available for children and families, making it an affordable day out for all.
06. Walk Along the The Rumps
Walking along The Rumps cliffside in Cornwall offers stunning panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the dramatic sea below. This scenic route is perfect for nature enthusiasts, with rich wildlife and a peaceful atmosphere, as well as the many sign posted walking routes the area has for tourists. The Rumps has an old mine location on the land which is a national trust property, ideal for anyone who loves to learn about the mining history of the county and wants to see it for themself.
07. A Cricket Game on Rock Beach
Rock beach is a great place for family sports, as it frequently has a low tide which provides lots of space to run around. In Cornwall, often the best things to do are free, and so many beaches have free parking in Cornwall. Rock is a quiet coastal town, not the most popular for tourists in general, but with many cosy cafe’s and bars with a beach side view. You can purchase a cricket set from the beachside store and spend a long summer evening enjoying the sunset.
08. Bustle Through St Ives
Visiting St Ives in the summer is a vibrant experience, as the town becomes bustling with tourists drawn to its picturesque harbour and charming streets. Known for its art scene, including the Tate St Ives and numerous galleries, the town also offers great seafood restaurants, independent shops, and plenty of outdoor activities. St Ives may well be the most popular destination for tourists during an English summer, so be aware that the traffic is very prominent, and parking limited. It’s ideal for a solo traveller using public transport, but also has a lovely family feel.
09. Cycle The Camel Trail in Wadebridge
Cycling the Camel Trail in Cornwall is an enjoyable way to explore the county’s stunning nature, following a traffic-free route along an old railway line. Bike rentals are available at various locations along the trail and in Wadebridge town centre, with prices starting at around £15 for a half-day rental, depending on the type of bike. The full trail, which stretches for about 18 miles from Padstow to Wenfordbridge, takes roughly 3-4 hours to complete, making it a perfect half-day adventure for families and cyclists of all levels.
10. Explore The Village of Mousehole
Exploring the charming village of Mousehole is like stepping into a postcard. With its narrow streets and quaint cottages, you can feel the rich history with every step you take. The old harbour is by far the biggest attraction, as it is always filled with adorable little boats year round, the ultimate photographer’s dream. Whether you’re admiring the views of the county, or strolling through the village’s beautiful lanes, Mousehole offers a peaceful and authentic Cornish experience.
11. Wild Windy Days at St Michael’s Mount
One of the best places to visit in the entirety of Cornwall, is St Michael’s Mount. Visiting The Mount is a magical experience, where you can explore the medieval castle, stroll through beautiful gardens, and enjoy breath taking views of the surrounding sea. Depending on the tide, you can either walk across the causeway or take a boat trip to the island. St Michael’s Mount is a National Trust property, and tickets to visit the island cost around £15 for adults. Watch out for the high tide, as any budding photographers will want to walk to the castle during low tide.
12. Try a Cornish Brew at The Bluntrock
If you are a fan of finding local businesses to support when touring around Cornwall, The Bluntrock Brewery is a good place to spend an sunny evening. Located in St Minver, North Cornwall, The Bluntrock sells their very own homemade brews, as well as hosting a variety of local food vendors on different nights of the week. The rustic vibe is one of the great things about this brewery, and the owners are often serving customers and expanding their home brew selection in the on-site brewery.
13. Take a Walk Along Bodmin Moor
At Bodmin Moor visitors can enjoy scenic hikes through its rugged landscapes, including the famous Rough Tor and Brown Willy, the highest points in Cornwall. The area is also rich in history, with ancient stone circles, standing stones, and the remnants of old mines to explore. For nature lovers, the moor offers a chance to spot diverse wildlife, such as wild ponies and various bird species, while enjoying its peaceful surroundings.
14. Catch a Show at The Minack Theatre
Visiting the Minack Theatre offers a great day out for all, as it is an open-air venue perched dramatically on the cliffs of Cornwall. The theatre is a top tourist attraction, hosting a variety of performances, including Shakespeare plays, musicals, and modern dramas, with productions held throughout the year. Ticket prices for the Minack Theatre typically range from £10 to £45, depending on the show and seating options, with discounts available for children and students.
15. Visit The Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Visiting the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is one of Cornwall’s attractions where you can observe rescued seals and sea lions in their rehabilitation process. Tickets for adults are priced at £15.95, while children’s tickets are £12.95, with discounts available for families and groups. The sanctuary also offers a unique chance to learn about marine conservation and interact with the animals in a safe, educational environment.
https://sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.org/en/how-to-book-your-tickets/: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year16. The Beautiful Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is a stunning natural beauty, known for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and golden beaches. The area offers breath taking views, making it a perfect spot for hiking, photography, and beachcombing. While it’s free to visit, be prepared for a steep walk down to the beach, and parking nearby is limited, so arriving early is a must at peak times.
17. Drive All The Way to Land’s End
If you love the idea of driving to the furthest edge of England, taking a leisurely journey down to Land’s End is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. A highlight is the stunning views at the end, where you can take in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, though it can get quite crowded, especially in the peak season. Additionally, the drive can be long and winding, with limited parking and pricey entrance fees for the attractions at Land’s End itself – so choose your activities wisely!
18. Catch a Thrill at Adrenalin Quarry
Visiting Adrenalin Quarry in Cornwall offers an exciting day of adventure, with thrilling activities like the giant zip wire, coasteering, and most importantly – The Aquapark assault course. While the activities are exhilarating, they can be pricey, and booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot. Cornwall has several small theme parks, but Adrenalin Quarry may be more appropriate for older kids and adults, plus its one of the more memorable experiences the county has to offer!
https://www.adrenalinquarry.co.uk/price/: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year19. Boardmaster’s Surfing Festival, Fistral Beach
The Boardmaster’s Surfing Competition, held every summer at Fistral Beach in Newquay, attracts top surfers from around the world to compete in challenging conditions. The event offers an exciting display of skill and athleticism, with spectators able to watch world-class performances whilst lounging on the beautiful beach. While the competition is thrilling to watch, the beach can get crowded, and parking near the event site can be limited during peak times. However, it is a perfect day of fun at one of Cornwall’s best beaches, and an interesting way to absorb some local culture!
20. Learn About The Mining History of Cornwall
Visiting the Geevor Tin Mine Museum in Cornwall offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s mining history, with well-preserved tunnels and machinery showcasing the industry’s past. These historic sites offer a guided tour, providing in-depth insights into the lives of miners and the challenges they faced, making it an educational experience for all ages. While it can be a bit damp and chilly underground, the museum’s informative exhibits and historic setting make it a fun visit for history enthusiasts. Adult tickets are priced at £14.50, while children and concessions pay £9, with family tickets available for £38.
21. Explore Pendennis Castle
One of Cornwall’s more popular historic landmarks, is Pendennis Castle in Falmouth, which offers a fascinating journey through history, and exhibits detailing its role in British defence from the Tudor era to World War II. Adult tickets are priced at £14.70, while children and concessions can enter for £9.80. The castle’s interactive displays and scenic surroundings make it a great destination for both history buffs and families.
22. Get Locked Up at Bodmin Jail
Bodmin Jail offers an immersive experience into Cornwall’s dark history, where the jail once housed notorious criminals from the 18th century until its closure in 1927. For a unique stay in Cornwall, look at The Bodmin Jail Hotel room options and feel the dark history for yourself! It’s the perfect afternoon activity for rainy weekend in Cornwall!
https://www.bodminjailhotel.com/: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year23. Explore The Carnglaze Caverns
Exploring the Carnglaze Caverns takes you deep into a series of underground tunnels, once used for mining china clay. Visitors can marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the beautiful blue-lit caverns, offering a unique underground experience. The site also hosts a fascinating history of mining and is perfect for those interested in Cornwall’s industrial heritage.
24. The Barbara Hepworth Museum
The Barbara Hepworth Museum in St Ives offers a captivating look at the life and work of this renowned British sculptor, with many of her works displayed in the beautiful gardens and galleries. Adult tickets are priced at £12, while children and concessions can visit for £3. The museum provides a peaceful and inspiring environment, allowing visitors to explore Hepworth’s artistic journey in a picturesque coastal setting.
25. Boardmaster’s Music Festival, Newquay
If you love the idea of a busy music festival by the coast, then keep your eye out for The Boardmaster’s Music Festival acts and ticket prices! The 2025 line-up includes RAYE, The Prodigy and London Grammar. You can pay for a weekend camping ticket, or even just a day ticket and stay in accommodation in central Newquay. The ticket prices vary based on pricing tiers, so the earlier you secure a ticket to this ultimate festival by the sea, the better.
https://boardmasters.com/ticket-info/: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year26. Feel The History at Launceston Castle
Visiting Launceston Castle offers a step back in time, where you can explore the medieval ruins and climb the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The castle’s fascinating history, from its Norman origins to its role in the Civil War, is brought to life through informative displays and signage.
27. Try a New Flavour Ice Cream at Just Desserts, St Ives
The iconic Just Desserts is an ice-cream parlour which sits on the St Ives sea front and welcomes thousands of tourist’s every year. It has lot’s of amazing flavours and makes for the perfect seaside holiday photo opportunity!
28. Visit The National Trust Trelissick Gardens
The Trelissick Gardens offers a blend of lush landscapes and breath-taking views over the Fal River. The peaceful, scenic paths wind through beautifully designed gardens, as well as the manor house and café which offer a peaceful lunch setting. National Trust property is free to members, but £15 for adult tickets otherwise.
29. See The Flower Covered Pity Me Inn, Rock
Settled in St Minver, The Pity Me Inn is a locally owned business that has a stunning, flower covered exterior. Inside, find a cosy restaurant environment and plenty of Cornish real ales to keep you busy. The outside beer garden has a peaceful design, ideal for a quiet summer afternoon with some board games.
30. Count Fishing Boats at Port Isaac
The stunning Port Issac harbour, known as the set of popular detective series Doc Martin, is an idyllic place to spend an afternoon. The cosy coastal village is ideal for the slow traveller who enjoys sitting in a café and people watching in the sun.
31. Enjoy Dinner With a View at The Ugly Butterfly, St Ives
For a special occasion why not book a meal with a view at The Ugly Butterfly. This contemporary restaurant is well known amongst locals for it’s luxury afternoon tea menu and stunning food aesthetic. If you are looking for the perfect instagrammable moment in Cornwall then make a reservation here in the heart of St Ives.
32. Taste Test All The Cornish Pasties You Can Find!
Nowhere on earth makes a pasty quite like Cornwall. You will find tons of bakeries here all advertising their very own Cornish pasty – so make it your mission to try as many as possible during your holiday and rank them!
33. Tour The Poldark Filming Locations
True Cornwall fans have all watched the brilliant Poldark series on the BBC, and have felt that inspirational pull towards the beautiful Cornwall. Make it your mission to find all of the filming locations, or even book a tour with a local and make it a luxury experience for your party. Many of the locations you can find yourself with a bit of research and access to your own car!
34. Climb Up Bedruthan Steps
Although technically you cannot access the steps any more due to safety risks, the cliffside walk is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful in the county. The beach below looks completely untouched since the stairway closed, giving you a true feel to old, rural Cornwall. It’s a National Trust site, so it has a car park free for members and lots of sign posts on walking routes available too.
35. Wild Swimming at The Trescore Islands
One of Cornwall’s best kept secrets – try wild swimming around the Trescore Islands, near to the beautiful Porthcothan Bay. During low tide, the sea pool is exposed and features natural diving platforms P.S. It’s also a great place to go seal spotting!
https://explorecornwall.uk/attractions/trescore-islands-sea-pool/: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year36. Dine at The Hidden Hut, Truro
For a unique dinner experience, search The Hidden Hut on Instagram and get a feel for their family style beach feasts! Their kitchen is more ad-hoc in the autumn/winter months, but in summer they post lots of events for beach dining, such as their long table paella event photographed here. They also have a standard lunch menu full of seasonal soups, sea food and fresh curries to enjoy while watching the sunset over the sea.
37. Take a Sea Safari Down the Looe River
For a water based adventure, there are a whole plethora of activities to choose from at Looe River. A sea safari is ideal for a family holiday, as you can enjoy seal and fish spotting from the boat without physical strain. For just £12 a person, why not get dropped off on the tiny St George’s island and have a couple of hours
38. Ride the Zipline at The Eden Project
If you want an adventure with a view, go to The Eden Project and book a ride on the amazing zipline! Sail through the landscape at speed, or try your hand at the treetop adventure challenge! The Eden Project has many different ways to have a fun day out, but the adrenaline activities have to be the most picturesque in England!
39. Book Yourself a Day at The Scarlet Spa
For a touch of luxury in between beach days, try booking quiet spa day for two at The Scarlett Spa. Just outside of Newquay, the spa offers a scenic indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, clifftop cedar wood sauna, restorative steam room and wide views of the blue Atlantic. It can be a pricey day, at a minimum of £190 per person
https://www.scarlethotel.co.uk/: 50 Amazing Things to do in Cornwall This Year40. Watch Live Music at Caerhays Beach
The Caerhays Beach Café takes entertainment seriously, and hosts a variety of live music acts all year round for visitors to enjoy alongside the beach views. This seasonal bar gets tons of tourist interest and can draw big sunset crowds. it may be the perfect way to see off your Cornish holiday!
41. Hunt For Sea Glass at St Mawes
St Mawes is the beautiful little coast line village in South Cornwall, with lots of quaint B&B’s and stunning sunset bars. But the best activity on a grey day, is to hunt the beach for sea glass! Winter is the best season for this, and you will find lots of crafty sea glass creations in all the gift shops and jewellers too.
42. Catch The Sunset at The Watering Hole, Perranporth
The Watering Hole is by far the most magical sunset bar in Perranporth, and well worth a visit! The bar is open in all seasons, so if you want to avoid a busier summer crowd, try visiting in the Autumn/Winter periods to capture the magic for yourself. Advertised as ‘The UK’s only bar on the beach’, The Watering Hole has been a family run business since 1978, so you will truly be supporting local businesses while soaking up the amazing Cornish culture.
43. Try Out The Winter Sauna By The Sea at Polzeath Beach
If you aren’t scared of the colder sea air, try out these unique sauna pods situated on Polzeath beach available outside of the summer season! It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxing steamy experience while soaking up the beach views, and if you are really brave, you can go for a chilly sea dip after!
44. Stargaze at a Camping Weekend at The Lizard
Cornwall has much less light pollution in rural locations, providing the perfect opportunity for star gazing! In Helston, there are several areas perfect for celestial events, so check this link out and find the ideal Cornish location to enjoy a long weekend in nature.
45. Weekend Fun at Tunes in the Dunes Festival
This annual festival takes place on Perranporth beach and is a lively, but intimate summer event. With only one stage, the festival books several well-known UK based acts to enjoy over three days. This event is perfect for anyone that wants to enjoy a festival also while spending time on a beach and enjoying the sunset vibes. Tickets are based on a tier pricing strategy, but can be very affordable at approx. £40 per person for a day if you get in quick enough!
46. Plan an Unforgettable Summer Day at Gwithian Beach
Cornwall is all about beaches, so instead of planning something to do, make the beach the activity! Gwithian is a vast, beautiful beach with perfect surfing waves and a large carparking area. Bring all your beach games, such as a cricket set and buckets and spades, and even keep it cheap with your own beach picnic. Classic beach days in summer are the best way to create ever-lasting memories.
47. Fly to The Isles of Scilly
You may think Lands End is the furthest point in Cornwall, but for the very adventurous, you can then take the air bus to The Isles of Scilly! St Mary’s is a very romantic spot, with vineyards, the Tresco gardens, and a multitude of sea view walks for nature-lovers. However, a trip here would be very pricey, at an average of £130 in the summer season, you want to think carefully about your budget and do your own research!
48. Go Seal Spotting On Godrevy Heritage coast
Every coast line in Cornwall offers the chance to spot seals, however they are known to be rife on the Godrevy Heritage coastline! This National Trust nature reserve is filled with secret coves and nature trails, perfect for a quiet afternoon picnic and some rogue seal watching.
49. Find The Padstow Bookseller
If searching for cosy bookshops and cafe’s is your vibe, a trip to Padstow will be right up your alley. The most aesthetic locally owned bookstore, The Padstow Bookseller, sits on a beautiful market street and gives classic Cornish ambience. Find a new read and take it to one of the many nearby cafe’s to enjoy a peaceful afternoon in your own company.
50. Take a Scenic Train From St Ives to Hayle
Train services in Cornwall aren’t perfect, but the views are certainly beautiful. A scenic little train route from Hayle to St Ives is approximately an hour long, and is a great way to get in to St Ives without struggling for parking. Watch out of the window as the Cornish coast slowly comes in to view revealing the magic of the county.
