Ideas for a rainy day
The sun doesn’t always shine in Cornwall. But a little bit of mist and drizzle needn’t stop you having a brilliant time. Here are some fantastic days out that you and the family can enjoy, no matter what the weather.
Eden Project - St Austell
Keep out of the rain at the world famous Eden Project. Housing some of the biggest greenhouses in the world, it has become a place to discover a wealth of plants and natural wonders. As you wander between the mesmerising biomes you will step into a tropical rainforest and experience a Mediterranean oasis.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall - Falmouth
Take cover at the exciting National Maritime Museum Cornwall, situated in front of the picturesque harbour, said to be the third largest in the world. Celebrating the sea, boats and Cornwall, this multi-award winning museum not only has 15 stunning galleries beautifully illustrating the past, present and future of this island nation but also offers a number of stunning exhibitions, including the new Pirates exhibition. There is also a fab cafe on site for those feeling a little peckish.
Bodmin Jail - Bodmin
The jail lets you discover life behind bars as an 18th Century prisoner in the heart of Cornwall at this immersive visitor attraction. Through theatrical effects and the latest technology, visitors are transported back to Cornwall’s murky past, enabling a first-hand experience of the penal life of a working prison on the fringes of the windswept Bodmin Moor.
Also located in Bodmin, this small science museum is well worth searching out if you’re looking for something different. Great for all ages to learn through play, prepare to be baffled and amazed! Follow the stories that are entwined in each exhibit; where it’s components came from and how it was transformed. Everything has been carefully crafted with waste or reclaimed materials..
Art Galleries
Cornwall has a wealth of galleries from small independent studios to world famous collections like Tate St Ives, from contemporary art to the more traditional Newlyn artists featured in the Penlee Gallery. They are all well worth a visit, especially if the weather isn't on your side. Most have changing exhibitions, so always check before you go to see what's on display.
Adrenalin Quarry - nr Liskeard
You're going to get wet anyway so why not visit the Aquapark at the Adrenalin Quarry near Liskeard? No-holds-barred madness on a colossal inflatable playground. Get wet and go wild on oversized trampolines, monkey bars, slides, swings and more. And if that's not enough, there's the zip-wire across the lake and the giant swing.....
The National Lobster Hatchery - Padstow
If you are looking for something a bit different to do, why not go along to the award-winning Lobster Hatchery Visitor Centre in Padstow? Here you will have the chance to learn about lobsters, the local marine life and find out about the pioneering marine conservation work they undertake in order to enhance the wild lobster population in our seas.
Geevor Mine - nr St Just
On the wild West Penwith coast, the remains of one of Cornwall's last working mines makes an interesting day out if the weather is not good (although not recommended if it's too stormy!). Walk around over two acres of listed buildings, showing you how tin was mined and processed, before being guided underground into a real 18th century mine. The views from the cafe are pretty good as well!
This isn't all! Cornwall is full of fun activities come rain or shine, click here for even more suggestions.
- Cornwall wide

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