Unbelievable as it sounds, sometimes the beach just isn’t enough. Though Newquay is famed for its scenic stretches of sand, with a family in tow – and especially if the weather turns – you’ll need other options to entertain and exhaust the kids during the day before your evening barbecue beckons.
And luckily for visitors to the ever-popular north Cornish town, Newquay boasts a range of places to take the entire family that promise new, fun and exhilarating experiences that will make all the more memorable your time spent on holiday there.
From animal adventures to activity centres and a spot of enthralling and hands-on history, spoil them rotten with a jam-packed stay of super frivolous high jinks.
Here are some top ideas for starters…
Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park
Free to visit, the beautiful Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park is the perfect place to spend a morning or afternoon. Follow the winding river through the stunning, immaculately maintained gardens; you'll be amazed by the abundance of wildlife and variety of flowers. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll, want to hire a pedalo, or feed the ducks, it's the perfect place for a relaxing family outing. Be sure to stop for a drink or bite to eat at either the Lakeside Cafe or at Trenance Heritage Cottages Tea Rooms.
Extend your walk across the road and under the viaduct and you'll find the Little Western Railway, a firm favourite with the kids! There's also a little cafe and play area so the kids can run around and let off steam!
Find out more about Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park >
Newquay Zoo
Discover a world of animals, from monkeys and giant tortoises to zebras and penguins. Home to over 130 species, visitors can enjoy observing these beautiful creatures, while learning more about them. With play areas and hands-on experiences, kids will be in their element at Newquay Zoo.
Open all year, visit Newquay Zoo for a family fun day out.
Find out more about Newquay Zoo >
Newquay Riding Stables
Explore the area from a new and exciting perspective with a thrilling stint on horseback around Newquay. Providing a wide variety of lessons for children (from ages 4 upwards), adults, groups and individuals, alongside ‘own a pony’ mornings and guided group rides, the British Horse Society approved and Cornwall County Council Licensed school expertly caters to all types of visitor and occasion.
Embark upon pony trekking and hack riding or a beach/coastal ride to take in the natural landscape – or for more experienced riders there’s even a pub ride or longer, two-hour tours available.
Find out more about horse riding in Cornwall >
Cornwall’s Crealy Great Adventure Park
Cornwall’s great adventure park promises some priceless and endlessly pleasurable family time. The massive 111-acre theme park is chock with fun-packed features including a huge heated indoor play area, top-notch facilities, 35 acres of outdoor play, animals, park rides, events and live shows.
Whether you and the kids sample Swampy’s Drop, Raging Rivers, Thunder Falls, the Safari Land Train or the Pony Express – or opt for a spectacularly entertaining show or some animal time (visit the Animal Paddock, Crocodile Corner or Shire Horse Stables for some brilliant back-to-nature encounters); your day will be filled with unforgettable delights.
(Open February-November)
Newquay Trampoline and Play Park
Perfect for rainy days, or just a fun day out, let the kids burn off some energy at the trampoline and play park at Newquay's Leisure World. Book a session at the the trampoline park to enjoy an hour of jumps, tricks and launching into foam pits, while the younger kids can enjoy the soft play area. There's also a fun pool, featuring sprayers, slides and splash areas - perfect for the whole family.
Open all year, times vary - be sure to book.
Find out more about Newquay Trampoline and Play Park >