Lauded as one of the best places in the UK and beyond for families to visit, Cornwall is chock with kiddie friendly options for all ages.
And you don’t get more crowd-pleasing than with a spectacular smattering of animal and wildlife attractions set to enthral, entertain and educate both young and old as they adventure out to see some truly stirring sights at some of the county’s most stunning locations.
There’s dozens to choose from wherever you’re based or may find yourself, so we’ve compiled a top ten, along with some other suggestions that’ll keep you – and more importantly, the little ones – brilliantly busy and smiley throughout your stay.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
The county’s sole seal rescue centre is located in Gweek amongst 40 acres of beautiful countryside, where you can meet and array of seal pups and other wildlife including otters, penguins, sea lions, sheep and goats. Adopt a seal, join in with a special event or experience (such as being a keeper for the day or having breakfast with the seals) and enjoy a snack in the café or pretty outdoor area.
Screech Owl Sanctuary
The award winning attraction looks after Cornwall’s sick and injured wild owls through care and conservation. A bevy of things to do and see include falconry and flying displays, ‘animal encounters’ (meet the meerkats or racoons, for example) and a children’s play area.
Tamar Valley Donkey Park
From donkeys to ponies, goats, rabbits, pigs and sheep – the sanctuary presents a plethora of adorable animals, while the all-weather play barn boasts six indoor play zones including soft, adventure and toddler play, and miniature tractor rides.
Blue Reef Aquarium
One of Newquay’s main attractions, the beachside aquarium is brimming with sea life such as sharks, octopus, crabs, turtles, crocodiles and masses of exotic fish species to swoon over.
Newquay Zoo
Small ones will be spellbound by the variety of 130 animals that call the zoo home, including the likes of lions, monkeys, pandas, pythons, reptiles and wildebeest.
Also – visit the nearby Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park for the boating lake, crazy golf and to jump aboard the mini railway.
Dairyland Farm World
Nature trails, tractor rides, feeding the animals, soft play areas, ball pool and the huge indoor play area makes this adventure park a multiple box ticker.
Feadon Farm Wildlife Centre
Situated near Portreath, the centre presents a series of engaging activities from feeding animals to flying owls, rock pooling and woodland safaris.
Old MacDonald’s Farm
Adults can enjoy some Scrumpy or a cream tea while the tots can embrace the range of rides and meet the resident ponies, ducks, cows, rabbits, sheep and geese.
Springfield’s Fun Park and Pony Centre
Located near Newquay, Springfield’s accommodates all ages via its Play Barn and The Park. With a new specially-designed ‘under 2’s’ play area, soft play area, slides and games – along with animals aplenty to feed, cuddle and learn about – it’s guaranteed fun-for-all.
The Monkey Sanctuary
The Monkey Sanctuary, near Looe, is home to a variety of different species along with other critters such as bats, insects and birds; while the free arts and crafts workshops and Children’s Activity Room will prove another hit with the kids.
Plus…
Paradise Park, Hayle
Porfell Wildlife Park, Liskeard
Fowey Aquarium
Wingz Bird and Animal Sanctuary, Par
The Camel Centre, Helston
Cornish Birds of Prey Centre, St Columb
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