The Best Cornwall Attractions & Activities

The Eden Project in Cornwall features massive biomes housing rainforest and Mediterranean habitats. This striking eco-attraction combines lush gardens, interactive exhibits and sustainable design, showcasing the wonders of nature and innovation.

The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden in St Ives preserves the artist’s former home and studio. Surrounded by lush gardens, it showcases her striking modernist sculptures in the very setting where she created them.

Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay showcases marine life from Cornwall’s coast to tropical seas. With walk-through ocean tunnels, coral displays, and fascinating sea creatures, it’s an engaging, family-friendly glimpse beneath the waves.

Chysauster Ancient Village, near Penzance, is a remarkably preserved Iron Age settlement. Its stone courtyard houses and lanes reveal how people lived 2,000 years ago amid sweeping views of the Cornish countryside.

Cotehele, near Saltash, is a beautifully preserved Tudor house set above the River Tamar. With medieval interiors, gardens, and a working mill, it offers an atmospheric journey through centuries of Cornish history.

Geevor Tin Mine, near Pendeen, is a preserved mining site offering underground tours and interactive exhibits. Set on Cornwall’s rugged coast, it vividly tells the story of the county’s tin mining heritage and community life.

Godolphin, near Helston, is a historic Cornish estate with a Tudor manor, tranquil gardens, and ancient woodlands. Once a powerful mining estate, it offers peaceful walks, panoramic views, and a glimpse into Cornwall’s rich past.

Lanhydrock in Cornwall is a magnificent Victorian country house set within wooded parkland. Known for its grand architecture, extensive servants’ quarters, and formal gardens, it offers a vivid glimpse into upstairs and downstairs life.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall are a vast restored Victorian estate with jungle-like valleys, romantic woodlands, walled gardens and iconic sculptures like the Mud Maid. A magical blend of history, nature and artistry.

The National Maritime Museum Cornwall, in Falmouth, celebrates the sea through interactive exhibits, historic boats, and maritime stories. Overlooking the harbour, it explores Cornwall’s deep connection with ocean adventure and trade.

Pendennis Castle, in Falmouth, is a coastal fortress built by Henry VIII to defend against invasion. With panoramic sea views, wartime tunnels, and interactive exhibits, it brings centuries of Cornwall’s military history to life.

Penlee House Gallery & Museum, in Penzance, celebrates Cornish art and history. Housed in a Victorian villa, it features works by the Newlyn School artists alongside local archaeology and cultural exhibits.

PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications, near Land’s End, explores how Cornwall connected the world through undersea cables. Housed in wartime tunnels, it reveals the evolution of global communication and Porthcurno’s vital role.

Screech Owl Sanctuary & Animal Park, near St Columb Major, rescues and cares for owls and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy close-up encounters, flying displays, and meet a variety of native and exotic animals in peaceful countryside surroundings.

St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall is a tidal island crowned by a medieval castle and church. Linked to the mainland by a causeway at low tide, it features terraced gardens, harbour village, and sweeping coastal views steeped in legend.

Tate St Ives in Cornwall is a seaside gallery showcasing modern and contemporary art, with links to the St Ives artists’ colony. Overlooking Porthmeor Beach, it combines world-class exhibitions with stunning coastal views.

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary, in Gweek, rescues and rehabilitates injured seals and sea lions. Set by the Helford River, it offers close encounters, woodland walks, and insight into vital marine conservation work in Cornwall.

The Minack Theatre in Cornwall is a spectacular open-air theatre carved into cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Created by Rowena Cade, it stages performances with the ocean as a backdrop, offering one of the UK’s most dramatic cultural settings.

Tintagel Castle on Cornwall’s dramatic cliffs is linked to the legend of King Arthur. Its medieval ruins, footbridge, and stunning sea views create a magical setting where history and myth intertwine.

Trerice, near Newquay, is an Elizabethan manor house with tranquil gardens and fine interiors. Managed by the National Trust, it offers a peaceful glimpse into Tudor life amid rolling Cornish countryside.

Tresco Abbey Garden on the Isles of Scilly is a subtropical paradise filled with exotic plants from around the world. Sheltered by ruins of a Benedictine abbey, it offers vibrant seasonal blooms, palm trees, and stunning sea views.

Wheal Martyn Clay Works, near St Austell, is Cornwall’s only China clay mining museum. Set in a former clay works, it features trails, vintage machinery, and interactive exhibits revealing the industry’s impact on the region.

Antony, near Torpoint, is a grand early 18th-century mansion managed by the National Trust. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and river views, it’s famed for its fine interiors and striking art collection.

The Bodmin & Wenford Railway offers nostalgic steam and heritage diesel journeys through the Cornish countryside. Departing from Bodmin, it combines vintage charm with beautiful rural views.

Bodmin Jail is a historic former prison turned immersive attraction. Visitors can explore its haunting cells, interactive exhibitions and stories of Cornwall’s dark past within the atmospheric 18th-century building.

Bodmin Town Museum showcases the rich history of the area, from mining and military heritage to local life. Its exhibits and artefacts offer a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s past.

Bude Canal & Harbour in Cornwall blend coastal charm with industrial heritage. Once vital for trade, the canal now offers peaceful walks, boating, and views of the town’s bustling waterfront.

Bude Castle Heritage Centre in Cornwall explores the town’s history, from sea rescues to engineering and art. Set in a historic seaside castle, it offers interactive exhibits and coastal views.

Caerhays Castle & Gardens, near St Austell, is a romantic coastal estate famed for its spring blooms and rare plant collections. The castle’s turrets overlook Porthluney Cove, blending stunning architecture with breathtaking sea views.

Camel Creek Adventure Park, near Wadebridge, is a family theme park with rides, animal encounters, and indoor play zones. Set in scenic countryside, it offers fun and excitement for children of all ages.

Camel Valley Vineyards in Cornwall produce award-winning English wines amid rolling countryside. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings and terrace views overlooking the scenic Camel Valley.

Carn Euny Ancient Village, near Sancreed, is a remarkably preserved Iron Age and Romano-British site. Its stone huts and underground fogou offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life in West Cornwall.

Carnglaze Caverns, near Liskeard, are former slate mines transformed into a fascinating underground attraction. Visitors can explore crystal-clear lakes, atmospheric caverns, and woodland trails above in Cornwall’s lush countryside.

The Cornwall Museum in Truro showcases Cornwall’s rich heritage, from mining and archaeology to fine art and local crafts. Its diverse collections reveal the county’s global connections and creative spirit through the ages.

Cotehele Mill, near Saltash, is a working watermill on the Morden Stream. Part of the Cotehele estate, it still grinds flour and showcases traditional rural life amid peaceful woodland surroundings.

East Pool Mine, near Redruth, is a preserved Cornish engine house showcasing the region’s industrial past. Managed by the National Trust, it features impressive beam engines and exhibits on mining heritage.

Falmouth Art Gallery houses an impressive collection ranging from classic maritime paintings to contemporary works. With family-friendly exhibits and local creativity on display, it’s a cultural highlight of Cornwall’s vibrant port town.

Glendurgan Garden, near Falmouth, is a lush valley garden leading to the Helford River. Famous for its laurel maze, exotic plants, and peaceful paths, it offers natural beauty and family-friendly exploration.

Halliggye Fogou, on the Trelowarren Estate, is Cornwall’s largest underground passage from the Iron Age. This mysterious stone structure offers a rare glimpse into ancient life and the rituals of prehistoric communities.

Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, near Truro, offers tours, tastings, and family fun among orchards and vintage presses. Home to Rattler Cyder, it combines tradition, craftsmanship, and a warm Cornish welcome.

Jubilee Pool in Penzance is Britain’s largest seawater lido, a striking Art Deco landmark overlooking Mount’s Bay. Its geothermal section offers naturally heated swimming, making it a year-round spot for sea views and relaxation.

Land’s End in Cornwall is the most westerly point of mainland England, famed for its dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and iconic signpost. A natural landmark with visitor attractions, it’s a popular spot for walking, photography, and coastal scenery.

Lappa Valley, near Newquay, is a family attraction set in a picturesque valley with miniature steam trains, boating, play areas, and nature trails. It offers a nostalgic, fun-filled day out surrounded by Cornish countryside.

Launceston Steam Railway offers nostalgic rides through the Kensey Valley on a narrow-gauge line. Starting from a restored Victorian station, it combines vintage charm with scenic countryside views.

Levant Mine & Beam Engine, near St Just, is a dramatic clifftop mining site and part of Cornwall’s World Heritage landscape. Its restored 1840 beam engine and sea views reveal the region’s rich industrial past.

Lizard Point & Marconi Centre, managed by the National Trust, mark Britain’s most southerly point. With breathtaking cliffs, rare wildlife, and the site of Marconi’s first wireless signals, it’s rich in natural and historic significance.

Mount Edgcumbe, overlooking Plymouth Sound, is a grand historic estate with formal gardens, woodland trails, and coastal views. Its 16th-century house and parkland blend heritage, art, and natural beauty on the Cornish border.

The Museum of Cornish Life, in Helston, showcases everyday heritage from crafts and trade to costume and farming. Housed in a Victorian building, it vividly captures Cornwall’s social history and community spirit.

Newlyn Art Gallery, near Penzance, showcases contemporary art from Cornwall and beyond. With sea views, changing exhibitions, and a creative atmosphere, it’s a vibrant hub for modern visual arts in West Cornwall.

Newquay Zoo, set in lush subtropical gardens, is home to hundreds of animals from across the world. With talks, play areas, and conservation exhibits, it offers a fun, educational day out for families in the heart of Cornwall.

Padstow Museum, near the harbour, highlights the town’s fishing, shipbuilding, and Obby Oss festival traditions. Its compact displays offer a fascinating look at the maritime heritage of this lively Cornish port.

Paradise Park in Hayle is a family wildlife sanctuary home to colourful parrots, penguins, and rare birds. With farm animals, play zones, and beautiful gardens, it’s a fun and educational day out for all ages in West Cornwall.

Pencarrow House & Gardens near Bodmin is a Georgian mansion set in landscaped grounds. Visitors can tour elegant rooms, explore woodland walks and enjoy seasonal blooms in this peaceful Cornish estate.

Perranzabuloe Museum, in Perranporth, offers a fascinating look at local history, from mining and maritime life to village traditions. Its exhibits and photographs capture the unique heritage of Cornwall’s north coast.

Pinetum Gardens, in St Austell, spans 30 acres of themed landscapes filled with rare trees, vibrant flowers, and tranquil ponds. It’s a peaceful haven celebrating nature, horticulture, and year-round beauty in Cornwall.

Porfell Wildlife Park & Sanctuary, near Looe, is a peaceful haven for rescued and exotic animals. With lemurs, meerkats, reptiles, and farm creatures, it offers close encounters and a focus on conservation and care.

Port Eliot House & Gardens, in St Germans, is a historic stately home set in sweeping parkland by the River Tiddy. With art-filled rooms and picturesque gardens, it blends heritage, creativity, and tranquillity.

Restormel Castle, near Lostwithiel, is a striking circular Norman ruin set on a hilltop. Its stone walls and sweeping views over the Fowey Valley reveal the grandeur of medieval life in Cornwall.

Springfields Fun Park, near Newquay, is a family attraction with friendly animals, play areas, go-karts, and boating. Its mix of outdoor adventures and hands-on activities makes it ideal for young children and relaxed days out.

St Mawes Castle, overlooking the Fal Estuary, is one of Henry VIII’s best-preserved coastal fortresses. Its elegant cloverleaf design and sea views reveal the Tudor defence of Cornwall’s southern coast.

St Ives Museum, near the harbour, offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s fishing, mining, and artistic heritage. Packed with local artefacts and stories, it captures the spirit of this historic Cornish seaside town.

The St Ives Society of Artists, based in the Mariners’ Church, showcases contemporary works by local artists. As part of the town’s artistic legacy, it offers ever-changing exhibitions in a historic seaside setting.

Tehidy Country Park, near Camborne, is Cornwall’s largest woodland park with serene lakes, wildlife, and miles of trails. Its mix of forest walks and picnic spots makes it ideal for peaceful outdoor exploration.

The Camel Trail, stretching from Padstow to Bodmin, follows a scenic, traffic-free route along a former railway line. Ideal for cycling and walking, it offers riverside views and peaceful Cornish countryside.

The Exchange in Penzance is a contemporary art gallery housed in a striking modern building. With changing exhibitions and creative events, it’s a key part of Cornwall’s vibrant art scene.

The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, in Boscastle, Cornwall, explores the history of witchcraft, folklore, and the occult. Its intriguing collection of artefacts, spells, and manuscripts offers a unique insight into Britain’s magical traditions.

Tintagel Old Post Office, a 14th-century stone building, offers a glimpse into medieval and Victorian village life. With its slate roof and period interiors, it’s one of Cornwall’s most atmospheric historic houses.

Tolgus Tin Mill, near Redruth, is Cornwall’s last surviving tin streaming works. Part of Cornish Gold, it offers guided tours and exhibits that bring the county’s rich mining heritage vividly to life.

Trebah Garden, near Falmouth, is a subtropical paradise with giant gunneras, vibrant blooms, and winding paths to a private beach. Its sheltered valley setting makes it one of Cornwall’s most enchanting gardens.

Trelissick Garden, near Truro, is a stunning National Trust estate overlooking the River Fal. Its vibrant gardens, woodland walks, and riverside views offer year-round beauty and peaceful exploration in the Cornish countryside.

Trengwainton Garden, near Penzance, is a lush National Trust garden famed for its exotic plants and spring blooms. With sheltered paths, streamside walks, and views to St Michael’s Mount, it offers tranquillity and natural beauty.

Trethorne Leisure Park, near Launceston, offers family fun with indoor play zones, animal encounters, rides, and activities. Combining adventure and relaxation, it’s perfect for children and families exploring Cornwall’s countryside.

Trewithen House & Gardens, near Truro, is an elegant Georgian estate famed for its landscaped gardens and rare plant collections. Its peaceful setting and seasonal colour make it a highlight of Cornish horticulture.

Truro Cathedral, in the heart of Cornwall’s only city, is a magnificent Gothic Revival landmark. Its soaring spires, stunning stained glass, and peaceful atmosphere make it a highlight of Truro’s skyline and heritage.

Wesley Cottage, in Trewint near Launceston, is a humble 18th-century home where John Wesley once stayed. Now a museum, it explores Methodism’s Cornish roots and offers a peaceful glimpse into spiritual history.

Blue Hills Tin Streams, near St Agnes, is Cornwall’s last working tin stream. Visitors can watch traditional tin production, explore the valley setting, and discover the enduring legacy of Cornish mining.

Boscawen Park, in Truro, is a riverside park with spacious lawns, sports facilities, and floral displays. Popular for walks, picnics, and events, it’s a lively green space close to the city centre.

Botallack, on Cornwall’s rugged coast, is famed for its dramatic cliffside engine houses from the tin mining era. Part of a World Heritage Site, it offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Cornwall’s industrial past.

Cardinham Woods near Bodmin offer scenic walking and cycling trails through peaceful forest landscapes. With picnic spots, a café and abundant wildlife, it’s a perfect destination for outdoor relaxation and adventure.

Carnewas at Bedruthan, managed by the National Trust, boasts towering sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping coastal views. Its scenic trails and café make it one of Cornwall’s most breathtaking coastal spots.

The Daphne du Maurier Museum at Jamaica Inn, Bodmin Moor, explores the author’s life and her links to the inn that inspired her famous novel. Displays include personal items, letters, and memorabilia celebrating her Cornish legacy.

Fox Rosehill Gardens, in Falmouth, is a subtropical oasis filled with exotic plants from around the world. Sheltered by the mild Cornish climate, it offers peaceful walks among palms, ferns, and vibrant blooms.

Godrevy, managed by the National Trust, offers sweeping beaches, dramatic cliffs, and views of the iconic lighthouse. It’s perfect for coastal walks, seal watching, and enjoying the untamed beauty of Cornwall’s north coast.

Golitha Falls Reserve, near Liskeard, is a woodland haven where the River Fowey cascades through rocky gorges. Its mossy trails and rushing waterfalls create a magical setting for walks and wildlife.

Goss Moor Reserve, near St Columb Major, is Cornwall’s largest inland nature reserve. Its open moorland, wetlands, and trails provide a peaceful haven for walkers, cyclists, and rare wildlife.

Gunwalloe, cared for by the National Trust, features rugged coastline, sandy coves, and the charming church of St Winwaloe set by the sea. It’s ideal for scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and exploring Cornwall’s wild beauty.

Gyllyngdune Gardens, in Falmouth, combine Victorian charm with coastal beauty. Featuring elegant terraces, a shell grotto, and sea views, they offer a tranquil escape just steps from the town and seafront.

Ken-Caro Garden, near Liskeard, is a peaceful two-acre garden with colourful borders, ponds, and valley views. Lovingly designed, it showcases diverse plants and seasonal interest in a serene Cornish countryside setting.

King Charles’s Castle, on Tresco in the Isles of Scilly, is a 16th-century artillery fort built to defend against French attack. Its clifftop ruins offer sweeping sea views and a glimpse into island history.

Kit Hill Country Park, near Callington, offers panoramic views from its granite summit. Rich in mining history and wildlife, it’s perfect for walking, picnicking, and exploring Cornwall’s highest inland point.

Launceston Castle, perched above the town, is a Norman stronghold with a striking round keep. Its ruins and panoramic views over Cornwall reveal centuries of power and defence on the Devon–Cornwall border.

Liskeard & District Museum explores the town’s rich history through mining exhibits, local crafts, and social heritage. Interactive displays and changing exhibitions make it a lively stop for discovering South East Cornwall’s past.

Mary Newman’s Cottage, in Saltash, is a 15th-century Tudor home once linked to Sir Francis Drake’s first wife. With period furnishings and riverside views, it offers a charming glimpse into Elizabethan domestic life.

Mevagissey Museum, set in a historic harbour building, tells the story of the village’s fishing and boatbuilding past. Its artefacts, photos, and maritime displays celebrate Cornwall’s coastal traditions and seafaring life.

Morrab Gardens, in Penzance, is a subtropical haven filled with palms, tree ferns, and exotic plants. Sheltered by the town, it offers peaceful walks, sea glimpses, and a touch of Victorian elegance.

North Cornwall Museum, in Camelford, showcases the region’s heritage through artefacts, crafts, and tools. Its exhibits explore rural life, local industries, and the traditions that shaped North Cornwall’s identity.

The Old Guildhall Museum, in Looe, occupies a 15th-century building that once served as the town’s magistrates’ court. Its exhibits reveal Looe’s maritime history, smuggling tales, and local heritage.

Siblyback Lake Country Park, near Liskeard, offers watersports, cycling, and scenic walks amid moorland views. With a lakeside café and wildlife spotting, it’s ideal for adventure and relaxation in Cornwall’s outdoors.

St Anthony Head, on the Roseland Peninsula, is a National Trust coastal headland with panoramic sea views, walking trails, and a historic lighthouse. It’s a prime spot for wildlife, ship-watching, and coastal exploration.

The St Breock Downs Monolith near Wadebridge is Cornwall’s largest standing stone. Dating back to the Bronze Age, it stands dramatically on open moorland, offering sweeping views across the Cornish countryside.

St Catherine’s Castle, near Fowey, is a small Tudor fort built by Henry VIII to defend the harbour. Perched on a wooded headland, it offers historic charm and sweeping coastal views.

Stithians Lake Country Park, near Redruth, is a hub for watersports, walking, and wildlife. Its scenic trails, café, and birdwatching spots make it perfect for outdoor recreation in Cornwall’s countryside.

Tamar Lakes on the Cornwall–Devon border offer watersports, fishing and scenic walks. Surrounded by wildlife and countryside, they’re ideal for sailing, kayaking or simply relaxing by the water.

The Cornish Birds of Prey Centre, near St Columb Major, cares for rescued raptors and other animals. With flying displays and close encounters, it offers an inspiring look at wildlife conservation in Cornwall.

The Cremyll Ferry links Plymouth with Cornwall’s Mount Edgcumbe. Operating across the River Tamar, it offers a scenic short trip with beautiful harbour views and easy access to coastal walks.

The Japanese Garden in St Mawgan blends Eastern design with Cornish tranquillity. Featuring maples, koi ponds, and stone paths, it offers a serene space for reflection and year-round natural beauty.

The National Lobster Hatchery, in Padstow, is a marine conservation centre working to protect lobster populations. Visitors can see baby lobsters up close and learn about sustainable fishing and coastal ecology.

The Treffry Viaduct near Luxulyan is a striking 19th-century granite structure that once carried both water and rail. Set in a wooded valley, it’s a marvel of Cornish engineering within a tranquil World Heritage landscape.

Trethevy Quoit, near St Cleer, is a striking Neolithic tomb of massive stone slabs. Standing over nine feet tall, it offers a powerful glimpse into Cornwall’s prehistoric landscape and ancient rituals.

Victoria Gardens, in Truro, is a peaceful Victorian park filled with colourful flowerbeds, ornamental trees, and a charming bandstand. Close to the city centre, it offers a tranquil green escape year-round.