Cornwall is filled with amazing family attractions, locations, historic houses and great sandy beaches. Cornwall is known for having the best things to do with a wide range of activities and fun for all visitors to enjoy.
In this guide, we have packed our top 10 must-visit attractions and things to do in Cornwall for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want a relaxing walk or an adventure, Cornwall has it all!
tintagel
Tintagel Castle
Get ready to take a step into a dramatic scene and be a king for a day. The Tintagel Castle is home to the Arthurian legends, offering panoramic views of the cliffside and a cave dedicated to King Arthur on the beach below.
This well-known attraction in Cornwall is a must-visit and is perfect for everyone to learn about the history of King Arthur on their visit.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Limited access due to steep terrain; cliff bridge is accessible, but much of the site is uneven.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for older children; steep paths may be challenging for strollers.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets available near the visitor center.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leads are welcome.
- Food Options: Beach Café and nearby pubs/restaurants in Tintagel village.
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle
Perched high on the rugged cliffs overlooking Falmouth, Pendennis Castle offers a spectacular 360-degree panorama of the coastline that’s bound to take your breath away. Step into the heart of Cornwall’s maritime history and walk in the footsteps of Tudor soldiers who once defended England’s shores against enemy forces.
Whether you’re exploring the imposing battlements, checking out the mighty cannons, or simply soaking up the stunning sea views, Pendennis Castle is an adventure through time that brings Cornwall’s past vividly to life. And after you’ve explored the castle, treat yourself to a delicious Cornish cream tea at the on-site café, where you can relax and enjoy freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, all while soaking in those unbeatable ocean views.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Partially accessible; wheelchair lift to ground floor exhibitions.
- Family-Friendly: Great for children with interactive exhibits and cannons.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities available.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leads are allowed in the grounds.
- Food Options: Castle Café with indoor and outdoor seating; dining options in Falmouth.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 12
Bodmin Jail
One of the best attractions in Cornwall is to visit Bodmin Jail to discover the cold, dark cells that were once homes to prisoners many years ago. Built in 1779 for King George III, the jail holds 20,000 tons of granite and was known for being prisoners in cold conditions.
The jail plays a huge role in Cornwall history and shows visitors the experiences prisoners had when staying in the jail. The tour will show you the insights from the smells to the feeling of history in the building.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Some areas accessible; steps and uneven floors present.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for older kids; eerie atmosphere might be intense for younger children.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets; no specific baby-changing areas.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: The Jailhouse Bar & Restaurant and on-site café for light snacks.
Porthcurno minack theatre
Minack Theatre
An iconic Cornish landmark, this famous open-air theatre is the talk of all tourists and is the perfect place to visit in Cornwall with family. Slopping on a cliff, you will be able to experience the beautiful coastal views of the sea below and enjoy this majestic landmark.
Rowena Cade brought the Minack Headland for £100 in the 1920s, Cade then build her home , Minack House- which you can see from the cliff top. in 1929, Rowena Cade become involved in a opne-air production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
The Minack Theatre was built by hand over the course of Rowena’s life and is used as a theatre for shows today. Every year, over 200 live performances take place, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful views of Porthcurno Bay.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Limited; a few wheelchair spaces available with advance booking.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for children; steep steps are challenging for strollers.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets; no baby-changing facilities.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: Café at the Theatre; picnics allowed in designated areas.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 13
Newquay Zoo
Newquay Zoo is a must visit in Cornwall. The zoo located on the north side of Cornwall in the heart of Newquay has over 130 rare and endangered animals among the 13 acres of the tropical gardens. This Cornwall attraction for families allows kids to feed the animals, experience animal encounters and even learn about the different animals in the zoo.
Discover the different animals such as penguins, red pandas, armadillos, reptiles and otters. The zoo is a registered charity, so your money will be going towards a good cause supporting education, scientific research and helping to protect the animals.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible with paved paths; wheelchairs available for loan.
- Family-Friendly: Playgrounds, animal encounters, and picnic areas.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and a sensory garden.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: On-site café with various meal options.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 14
Museum of Witchcraft and Magic
The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is a treasure trove of mystical artifacts and ancient lore. With over 3,000 objects and 7,000 books, this unique museum offers an immersive journey into the world of witchcraft, folklore, and magic. Explore exhibits that bring centuries-old myths to life, allowing you to delve deep into the fascinating history of spells, rituals, and supernatural beliefs that have shaped cultures worldwide.
Home to one of the world’s largest collections of witchcraft arts and crafts, the museum showcases everything from wands and potions to ceremonial robes, amulets, and magical tools. Discover the darker side of history with displays of ancient curses and protective charms, or learn about the beautifully crafted ritual items and spellbooks that tell the story of magic through the ages.
- Price Range: £
- Wheelchair Access: Partially accessible; narrow spaces and uneven floors.
- Family-Friendly: Best for older kids interested in history and myths.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets; no baby-changing facilities.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: Nearby cafes and eateries in Boscastle village.
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
Located near the Tate in St Ives, discover the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden based in Trewyn Studio. This must-visit attraction in Cornwall, the space is dedicated to the British sculptor Dame Barbara Hepworth.
The museum provides a deeper look into her iconic work and creative processes. The formal garden is perfect for visitors to enjoy the open space and see the plants growing around.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Garden is partially accessible; some gravel paths.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages with sculptures to explore.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: Nearby cafes and eateries in St Ives.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 15
National Maritime Museum
Take a visit to this amazing museum, a perfect attraction in Cornwall for families to enjoy. The museum is family-friendly offering over 15 galleries inside, from the boatbuilding workshop and artworks, families will have a chance to explore Cornwall’s history.
Here families can learn about the sea and the part it plays in Cornwall from the Vikings to Titanic. The museum also offers story sessions for kids, interactive workshops and a basement Tidal zone to look into the waters. The National Maritime Museum is the perfect thing to do in Cornwall with families, so make sure to visit here.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible with lifts to all floors.
- Family-Friendly: Interactive exhibits, story sessions, and workshops.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and sensory activities.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: On-site café with a variety of meals and snacks.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 16
Launceston Castle
Launceston Castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of history, adventure, and breathtaking views. Perched atop a hill, this 13th-century Norman stronghold offers stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding Cornish landscape. As you climb the stone steps to the top of the iconic round tower, you’ll be rewarded with a commanding view that once served as a critical lookout point for guarding the gateway into Cornwall. Wander through the ancient battlements, explore the stone fort, and immerse yourself in the castle’s rich history, from its origins as a powerful medieval fortress to its later life as a 17th-century prison, where stories of power and captivity unfold.
Beyond its history, Launceston Castle provides a serene escape where you can enjoy a picnic on the lush grounds, perfect for a family day out. The castle’s interactive exhibits bring its past to life, allowing visitors to step back in time and discover the secrets of this remarkable site. With its dramatic location, fascinating heritage, and the opportunity to explore one of Cornwall’s most iconic landmarks, Launceston Castle is a destination that captivates the imagination and offers a unique journey through time.
- Price Range: £
- Wheelchair Access: Limited due to steep, uneven surfaces and steps.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for families; kids can explore battlements.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets available.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leads welcome.
- Food Options: Nearby cafes and pubs in Launceston.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 17
The Eden Project
An unforgettable experience and must- visit attraction in Cornwall. The Eden Project offers over a million plants across the 35 acres located in the heart of Cornwall.
Explore the different regions, from the indoor rainforest to the Mediterranean, see the amazing plants and flowers up close on your visit here. The Outdoor Garden is perfect for visitors to see rare and old planets, from fruit trees to shrubs. This is the perfect attraction in Cornwall for everyone to enjoy.
- Price Range: £££
- Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible; wheelchairs and mobility scooters available for hire.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages with adventure areas and workshops.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and sensory maps.
- Pet-Friendly: Assistance dogs only.
- Food Options: Multiple on-site cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 18
The Lost Garden of Heligan
With over 200 acres of jungle and tropical gardens, the Lost Garden of Heligan fell into disrepair just after the First World War. However, the garden has been nursed back and offers a trial of gardens, tropical plants, and natural attractions of mother nature.
When visiting make sure to look out for the Sleeping Moss Giant and make sure to tell the kids not to wake him.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Accessible routes; some steep or uneven paths.
- Family-Friendly: Great for families; kids can explore nature trails.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leads welcome.
- Food Options: On-site café with homemade meals and snacks.
Golitha Falls
Want to take a magical walk and discover majestic waterfalls? The Golitha Falls is one of the best attractions in Cornwall. The Golitha Falls is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which is managed by Natural England.
The woodlands offer views of bluebells, the dramatic waterfalls, butterflies and dramatic cascades. If you’re lucky you may discover the sea trout’s, salmons swimming or the bats flying above the trees.
- Price Range: £
- Wheelchair Access: Limited; natural, uneven paths can be slippery.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for nature walks; not ideal for strollers.
- Facilities: No accessible toilets or baby-changing facilities.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome.
- Food Options: Nearby cafés and picnic spots.
13 Must Visit Family Attractions in Cornwall 19
Lappa Valley Steam Railway
The Lappa Valley Steam Railway is perfect for the little ones. Inside families will discover the nature trials, train rides, crazy golf and path mazes.
Have a fun family day out here in Cornwall and try out canoeing on the lake or take a long relaxing walk along the nature trails. Make sure to visit the Whistle Stop Café for a cream tea, snack or ice cream.
- Price Range: ££
- Wheelchair Access: Accessible trains available; booking ahead recommended.
- Family-Friendly: Ideal with train rides, nature trails, and mini-golf.
- Facilities: Accessible toilets and baby-changing areas.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leads welcome.
- Food Options: Whistle Stop Café for light snacks and cream teas.
