When it rains in Cornwall, there are still plenty of great indoor activities and attractions to enjoy for all the family. Here are 10 of our personal recommendations:

Let’s be honest, it sucks when it rains and you’re on your St Ives holidays. Particularly when it’s your summer holiday and you’re expecting wall to wall sunshine. If it’s summer rain, it’s usually warm and it’s still a lot of fun to be on the beach playing around in the sand or in the sea. In fact, the best place to be when it rains in Cornwall is in the sea. You’re wet anyway!

If you’ve booked a St Ives holiday cottage, we think shopping and retail therapy in St Ives is a great distraction from the inclement weather conditions. There are plenty of shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants to shelter from the wet. This is not the cheapest of options or the sanest if you have fractious children (or partners!).

We’ve selected some of the best places to go in Cornwall when it rains. They are great entertainment for all the family and won’t break the bank (too much).

The Eden Project

The Eden Project is a visitor attraction located in South East Cornwall. It is housed within two enormous biomes offering captivating exploration of the relationship between plants and people.

Biomes and Outdoor Gardens

When it’s tipping down outside, walk into the heart of a rainforest or the Mediterranean at either the Rainforest Biome or the Mediterranean Biome. The Eden Project built these incredible structures in a disused mine and recreated the climates and ecosystems of the Med and Rainforest, housing thousands of plant species.

If the rain stops for a little bit, head out and explore the stunning outdoor gardens with a huge range of plants and breathtaking views.

The Eden Project is a fantastic place for kids to learn and have fun.

The Rainforest Biome is magical for kids. They’ll love spotting exotic plants, animals, and waterfalls. The Mediterranean Biome gives a different experience with its sunny climate and fragrant plants. The outdoor play area is perfect for burning off energy. It features water play, climbing frames, and sensory experiences.

For older kids, the SkyWire offers an exhilarating adventure. It’s England’s longest and fastest zip wire! (it’s an extra cost to do this)

Parking

There is parking at the Eden Project with several car parks available, and the cost is included in the admission price.

Dogs at The Eden Project

Dogs are allowed in the Outdoor Gardens at the Eden Project. However, they are not permitted in the indoor Biomes or children’s play areas.

The Eden Project provides facilities for dogs, including:

• Dedicated dog waste bins
• Water for dogs
• Undercover dining area for dogs

So, you can definitely bring your furry friend along for a day out, but be mindful of the restrictions.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall

The National Maritime Museum Cornwall is at Events Square in Falmouth. We believe it’s a great place to go when it rains in Cornwall. It’s just brilliant for families with children of any age. It’s designed to be engaging, interactive, and fun, making it a perfect place to spark young imaginations.

But why is it so great for kids?

The museum is packed with hands-on activities that keep kids entertained and learning. They can dress up as pirates, steer a virtual boat, and explore different maritime roles. Skull Island is a pirate-themed paradise, with a climbing fort, a captain’s quarterdeck, and plenty of opportunities for imaginative play. Kids can get their hands dirty and learn about boat construction through fun workshops. Finally, the museum often hosts storytelling sessions and performances that bring maritime history to life for young audiences.

The museum is great for adults too. It delves into the rich history of maritime Cornwall. You learn about sea explorations, trade and the challenges faced by seafarers. It displays stunning exhibits of ship models, artefacts and interactive exhibits. It is set in the most beautiful coastal town of Falmouth. A gorgeous waterfront location and the town is full of shops and eateries too.

Whether you’re a history buff, interested in marine life, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall has something to offer everyone.

Parking

The museum offers several parking options, including:

Maritime Car Park: Located closest to the museum
Grove Place Car Park: Offers additional parking options
The Dell Car Park: Suitable for longer stays

It’s recommended to check the museum’s website for the most up-to-date information on parking availability, costs, and any restrictions.

Accessibility

The National Maritime Museum Cornwall is fully accessible to wheelchair users.

The main entrance is accessible at ground level.   All floors can be reached via lifts or ramps.  There are wheelchair-accessible toilets on the first floor.

Dogs

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed inside the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

However, there is some good news! Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the museum’s gardens and tea room, as long as they are kept on a lead.

So while you can’t bring your furry friend into the museum itself, you can still enjoy some of the outdoor spaces with them.

Tate St Ives

Now, if you have booked a St Ives holiday cottage and the heavens have opened up, we think it’s worth spending a few hours at Tate St Ives. It is an excellent choice for a rainy day in Cornwall.

Even though you may not be an art enthusiast, you can’t help but immerse yourself in a world of modern and contemporary art. There are incredible pieces of valuable artwork and each piece inspires discussion. At the Tate St Ives, you will discover a range of thought-provoking exhibitions that will stimulate your mind. Blow it, even!

Even on a rainy day, the gallery dishes up breathtaking views of Porthmeor Beach, plus the cafe on the rooftop serves afternoon tea and hot delicious food with a side of spectacular sea views.

Overall, the gallery’s spacious and light-filled rooms create a peaceful environment to escape the rain. The shop also provides a little light retail therapy too.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing indoor activity, Tate St Ives is the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon in St Ives.

Parking

It won’t come as a surprise but parking can be limited, especially during peak season in St Ives. There are several long stay public car parks in St Ives, such as Trenwith and Barnoon. These can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable.  A shuttle bus service operates between the Trenwith Coach and Car Park and the town centre, which is a short walk from Tate St Ives.

Accessibility

Tate St Ives aims to be accessible to all its visitors. While the gallery itself is accessible, there are some limitations due to the building’s age and location. The main entrance is accessible, and there is a lift to the upper floors.  Assistance dogs are welcome and there is one designated disabled parking space in the Barnoon car park, which is free with a valid Blue Badge.

Dogs

Sadly, dogs are not allowed at the Tate St Ives.

Blue Reef Aquarium

Blue Reef Aquarium is in Newquay on the North Cornwall coast. It is a fantastic indoor activity which makes it an ideal choice when Cornwall’s famous weather decides to take a turn for the worse.

Here’s why it’s a great place to visit when you want things to do when it rains in Cornwall:

Indoor Adventure

Escape the rain and immerse yourself in an underwater world while staying perfectly dry.

Diverse Marine Life

From local creatures to exotic tropical fish, there’s something to fascinate everyone in all colours of the rainbow.

Interactive Exhibits & Educational Fun

Get up close and personal with marine life through interactive displays. Learn about ocean conservation and marine biology in a fun and engaging way.

Rainy Day Activities

The aquarium often hosts additional activities or events during inclement weather so we recommend you check their website for more details.

With its vibrant displays, informative talks, and fascinating creatures, Blue Reef Aquarium offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply looking for a fun indoor activity while it tips down outside, we think it’s a great way to spend a rainy day in Cornwall.

Parking

Unfortunately, The Blue Reef Aquarium doesn’t have its own dedicated car park.

However, there are public car parks nearby, such as:

St George’s Road Car Park (TR7 1JS)
Manor Road Car Park (TR7 1RA)

These car parks are within a short walking distance from the aquarium.

Accessibility

Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay is committed to providing an accessible visit for all its visitors.

The aquarium has ramps throughout, making it easy to navigate for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues.  A lift is available to access the first floor, where the gift shop, cafe, and an accessible toilet are located.  The aquarium offers multi-level viewing platforms, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits.  Carer entry: Free entry is provided for a carer of a disabled visitor on a 1:1 ratio.  Service dogs: Assistance dogs are allowed, provided they are registered and accredited by Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK).

While the aquarium is generally accessible, it’s worth noting that the nursery tanks are currently inaccessible.

Dogs

Sadly, dogs are not allowed at the Blue Reef Aquarium.

Bodmin Jail

Now, when it’s raining outside, you wouldn’t ordinarily take comfort in a jail! However, Bodmin Jail is a captivating historical site transformed into a thrilling visitor attraction. It allows you to glimpse into the harsh realities of prison life in the 18th and 19th centuries. As a visitor, you explore the eerie cells, learn about notorious criminals, and experience the atmosphere of a bygone era.

A big question, given it’s a jail, is it suitable for children?

Bodmin Jail can be a thrilling experience for children, but it’s important to consider their age and sensitivity. While the attraction is designed to be engaging, some of the content may be disturbing for younger children.

The jail offers a range of experiences, from family-friendly tours to more intense dark walks. It’s recommended to choose activities suitable for your child’s age and interests.

Overall, Bodmin Jail is a fascinating place to visit (particularly on an atmospheric rainy day!). With careful planning, it can be a memorable (for the right reasons) experience for the whole family.

Parking

There is ample parking available at Bodmin Jail.

Accessibility

Bodmin Jail has level access to many areas  and also adapted toilets. It has lifts to access upper floors and offers wheelchair-friendly routes. It’s important to note though, due to the nature of the building, some areas may be difficult to access. It’s advisable to contact the jail directly for specific accessibility requirements.

Dogs

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed inside Bodmin Jail.

Geevor Tin Mine

Geevor Tin Mine is an excellent choice for a rainy day in Cornwall. You will find it on the West coast of Cornwall near Penzance. It’s real Poldark country in that area! The majority of your experience takes place indoors, exploring the fascinating world of mining. The underground tour, in particular, offers a sheltered escape from pouring rain.

Geevor Tin Mine offers its visitors the chance to delve into Cornwall’s mining heritage. You leave understanding better this area’s poverty and riches and who profited and who worked the hardest. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious child, or simply seeking a sheltered activity, it’s a worthwhile visit.

Being a mine, is it good for children?

Absolutely! Geevor Tin Mine is a fantastic place for children to learn about history and engineering in an engaging way. The interactive exhibits, underground adventures, and hands-on activities make it a fun and educational experience.

Parking

There is ample parking available at Geevor Tin Mine.

Accessibility

While there are some areas with uneven surfaces, the main attractions and facilities are wheelchair accessible. The mine offers ramps and lifts to facilitate movement between different levels.

Dogs

Sadly, dogs are not allowed inside Geevor Tin Mine. There are incredible walks very near the mine however if one of your party doesn’t mind missing the attraction.

Pendennis Castle

Pendennis Castle is a super well-preserved Tudor castle in Falmouth with exhibitions and activities indoors to explore.

Is it any good for a rainy day?

While Pendennis Castle offers plenty of outdoor spaces to explore, there are also indoor areas to discover, like underground tunnels and exhibitions when the skies open. We think it’s a good option for a rainy day, where you can explore the castle’s history without getting too wet. It’s definitely a shower dodger option!

The kids will love Pendennis Castle too. There is a family-friendly vibe with interactive displays and activities to keep young minds engaged. There’s a dedicated children’s trail to help them explore the castle in a fun way too. Pendennis Castle is a fascinating historical site with stunning views. Whether you’re interested in history, enjoying the outdoors, or exploring with family, it’s a worthwhile rainy-day destination.

Parking

There is on-site parking available at Pendennis Castle.

Accessibility

There is level access to the main entrance and many areas of the castle. However, due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may have limited access such as steps.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed in the outdoor areas of Pendennis Castle, but they must be kept on a lead. However, dogs are not permitted inside the main castle building.

Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm

Healey’s Cyder Farm is just off the A30 between Truro and Newquay. It is a great option when it rains in Cornwall. While there are outdoor elements, the majority of the experience takes place indoors. Throw yourselves into learning about the production process of cider and juices, sample the yummy ciders, and enjoy the farm shop without getting wet.

Healey’s Cyder Farm offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Mix together the cider tasting, farm animals, and indoor activities, it’s a perfect choice for a Cornish day out.

Is it a fun day for the kids?
Absolutely! Healey’s Cyder Farm is a family-friendly attraction with plenty to keep children entertained. They can explore the farm animals, enjoy the play areas, and learn about the cider-making process (but not tasting it of course!)

Parking

Healey’s Cyder Farm has ample parking available on-site.

Accessibility

Healey’s Cyder Farm is mostly accessible, with ramps and level pathways throughout most of the site. However, due to the nature of the farm, there might be some areas with uneven surfaces.

Dogs

Healey’s Cyder Farm is generally dog-friendly, with designated areas for dogs. However, it’s essential to check the farm’s specific policies regarding dogs, as this might change.

Porthcurno Telegraph Museum

It’s raining hard outside, is PK Porthcurno good for a rainy day activity?

Without doubt! PK Porthcurno is an excellent choice for a rainy day. As a museum focused on the history of telecommunications, it offers a sheltered and engaging experience, perfect for escaping the Cornish weather.

It is a fascinating place to learn about the history of communications and its impact on the world as we now know it. The museum dives deep into the history of telecommunications, offering a captivating exploration of how the world has connected (and communicated) over the centuries gone-by. It’s a perfect place for those interested in technology, history, or simply wanting to learn something new. PK Porthcurno offers a mix of historical information and interactive exhibits, making it an engaging experience for children. While the subject matter might not appeal to all kids, there are elements that can spark curiosity and learning.

The combination of historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the stunning coastal setting make it a truly enjoyable experience for all ages.

Parking

PK Porthcurno has its own car park but charges do apply.

Accessibility

There is level access to most areas and adapted toilets. There are lifts where necessary and also wheelchair-friendly routes.

However, due to the nature of the site, some areas may have limited accessibility. It’s advisable to contact the museum directly for specific requirements.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome at PK Porthcurno, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. They are not allowed inside the bunker areas of the museum.

Jamaica Inn

Jamaica Inn is famous because of Daphne du Maurier’s gothic novel called ‘The Jamaica Inn’. The 1936 novel described the inn as a sinister place involved in smuggling on the Cornish coast. Even though, the plot is largely fictional, it’s captured public imagination and transformed Jamaica Inn into a symbol of mystery.

Apparently the real inn was never actually involved in smuggling on the scale depicted in the novel. However, thanks to the book, it’s secured a place in popular culture and makes it a must-visit attraction for many curious folk.

The inn is steeped in tales of smuggling and mystery, and you can explore its intriguing past through exhibits and displays. Visit the smuggling museum and learn about the illicit trade that once thrived in the area and see fascinating artifacts related to smuggling. The inn’s unique character and location on Bodmin Moor create a captivating ambiance (particularly on a rainy day and maybe after visiting Bodmin Jail!).

The inn’s restaurant offers a delicious menu, and of course you can enjoy a tipple at the bar (not smuggled!). The Jamaica Inn is set in the dramatic landscape of Bodmin Moor so if the weather dries up a little, it’s well worth having a walk too.

Essentially, a visit to Jamaica Inn offers a perfect mix of history, atmosphere, and the chance to experience a piece of Cornish legend. Word of warning though…Jamaica Inn offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, but it might not be the most exciting place for young children. While there are elements of interest, such as the history and atmosphere, the focus is more on adult visitors.

Parking

Jamaica Inn has ample parking available on-site.

Accessibility

While the building is historic, efforts have been made to ensure accessibility. There are ramps and level access to many areas, but some parts of the inn might have limitations due to its age.

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed inside Jamaica Inn.