The summer holidays are around the corner and a large proportion of families are descending on fabulous Cornwall for a week by the sea and, if the star are aligned, some much needed sunshine. As you probably already know Cornwall is famously family-friendly, with so many places to visit and things to do with the kids. We would be here all day if we tried to list every sight, attraction and day out across the area, which is exactly why we built our Day Out Builder. But, here are our top days out with the kids in Cornwall to get the mind whirling!

So let’s get on with showing you our favourite days out with the kids in Cornwall…

Number 1 – Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Where is it? The Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek, Cornwall, TR12 6UG

Website: sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.org/en/ 

We love meeting animals and these seals and sea lions at this sanctuary and rescue centre are adorable! On top of that you’ll find otters, penguins and even some land animals like sheep, ponies and goats – really making this one of the quirkiest Cornish attractions around.

There are a number of interesting things to do here making it a great day out with the kids in Cornwall as there is an interactive rockpool,  you can get involved in feeding and talks as well as exploring via a quiz trail.

It is just over £10 for entry to the Sanctuary but you can have Breakfast with the Seals for £35 per person too!

Number 2 – The Eden Project

Where is it? Eden Project, Bodelva, Cornwall, PL24 2SG

Website: https://www.edenproject.com/

Wow, wow, wow! This really is an astonishing attraction – a garden that transports you to all corners of the world. You will explore this global garden and, when you are walking through a futuristic domed biome you’ll come face to face with some amazingly beautiful plants.

Move over the Amazon… as this plot in Cornwall is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest as well as interactive exhibits so everyone can take away a nugget of information too.

Always book in advance at the Eden Project – adults are from £26 and children from £13.50.

Number 3 – St Michael’s Mount

Where is it? St Michael’s Mount, Marazion, Cornwall, TR17 0HS

Website: https://www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk

A visit to St Michael’s Mount really is like stepping into another world! You can stride across the causeway or travel across by boat to this island. Then walk medieval paths, explore the castle itself before discovering more about the village and the harbour.

This is a story of legends and myths… so there is plenty of intrigue for all the family. Because of the mystique surrounding this place this really is one of of our favourite days out with the kids in Cornwall.

You can buy tickets for just the castle, just the gardens or both together, which we would recommend. That starts at £16 for adults and £8 for children.

Number 4 – Surfing and Beaches

Where is it? All over the county

Website: Try Cornwall Surf Academy or St Ives Surf School 

We have made three points without getting active, but number four is dedicated to the sea, the surf and the sand!

Cornwall is blessed with some of the best surfing in the UK and some of the most beautiful beaches for the whole family to play on.

We recommend a few surfing lessons for starters and there are plenty of options available.

Number 5 – The Camel Trail

Where is it? Wenfordbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow

Website: visitcornwall.com/things-to-do/cycling/north-coast/padstow/camel-trail

Staying on the active theme, why not take to a bike and get active for the day along the Camel Trail.

This 18-mile trail winds through the beautiful Padstow, Wadebridge and Bodmin following an old railway line alongside the river Camel. Check out the website for the full map but remember it is just as easy and just as fun to explore smaller sections if you don’t fancy the whole thing!

When the weather is right we think this is perfect for a day out on bikes with the kids but there are also family-friendly walks and plenty of chances to stop for a rest in the villages along the route if that is more your jam!

Number 6 – Tintagel Castle

Where is it? Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE

Website: english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/

If you are interested in dramatic coastlines and stunning scenery, then Tintagel Castle should rank right up there are one of the things to do in Cornwall.

This place is the epitome of dramatic and rugged – the clifftop ruins are shrouded in stories, myths and legends. We particularly enjoy the tale that it’s the birthplace of King Arthur with Merlin’s Cave nearby…

This place is best enjoyed with older children who can manage the tricky steps and admire the place in all it’s glory.

Do make sure you visit the website before you visit, as they are currently renovating some footbridges. *Update* Footbridge is now open and looks amazing… this may well be moving up our list of great days out with the kids in Cornwall.

Number 7 – VR CORNWALL

Where is it? Antron House, 55 Chapel Street, Penzance, TR18 4AE

Website: virtualrealitycornwall.co.uk/

Did you know that in the heart of Penzance you can enter virtual worlds beyond your wildest dreams?

Put on the VR headset and prepare your family to be amazed – we really do not need to say any more!

Number 8 – Inflatable Theme Parks…

Where is it? Retallack Resort, Winnards Perch, St Columb Major, Cornwall, TR9 6DE

Website: ariaresorts.co.uk/our-parks/retallack-resort/activities/aqua-park/

These are popping up all over the place at the moment and, are becoming a huge hit with all the family.

Cornwall is home to one huge inflatable Aqua Park near Padstow which has a giant trampoline, a catapult, tricky “stepping stones” and a whole host of other challenges.

Race your friends around the course and get wet… all for £15 per person.

Number 9 – Bodmin Jail

Where is it? Bodmin Jail, Berrycoombe Road, Bodmin, Cornwall PL31 2NR

Website: http://www.bodminjail.org/

Prisons are a bit spooky right? And quite cool to explore. Your children will be curious to find out about the history of the building and the fascinating artefacts on display. Gruesome tales of crime and stories from the underworld. Just what the kids want.

We recommend the restaurant too!! £10 for adults and £7.50 for children between 5 and 15.

Number 10 – Newquay Zoo

Where is it? Newquay Zoo, Trenance Gardens, Newquay, Cornwall TR7 2LZ

Website: newquayzoo.org.uk/

You will really feel like you are transported to the savanna of Africa with a visit to this exceptional zoo. Or to the rainforests of South America… There are so many animals to discover – over 1000! – learn about and admire at Cornwall’s only zoo. Make time for the feeds and the talks, the activity trails or get your faces painted in the colours of your favourite animal.

From £14.50 for adults and £10.90 for the kids.

Our Top 5 Days Out with the Kids in Cornwall Video

Need more ideas?

Check out our day out builder for a full list of hundreds of things to do in Cornwall.