South Cornwall is an incredibly family-friendly destination: sheltered coves and beaches, an array of visitor attractions and natural landscapes perfectly designed for a wealth of activities makes it a brilliant choice for visitors of all ages.
Home to some of Cornwall’s most iconic must-sees along with hidden biking trails, quiet stretches of sand and a variety of cultural and entertainment offerings, you’ll experience endless adventures amongst every enchanted corner.
Here’s some inspired family days-out ideas for starters…
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Situated on the town’s aptly named Discovery Quay, the Maritime Museum is a world of waterside intrigue, education and entertainment. Hosting a regularly changing series of exhibitions and displays – along with a variety of interactive features, you’ll also be able to reboot and refresh in seaside scenic style at the Waterside Café.
View the harbour underwater at the Tidal Zone, steer a boat with a tiller and learn about weather systems at the Nav Station, or sail a radio-controlled boat at the Waterfront for a fantastically fun and fact-filled day out with a maritime themed difference.
Read more about the National Maritime Museum.
Pendennis Castle
Jam-packed with things to see and do, Pendennis Castle not only claims one of Falmouth’s most captivating cliff top positions, but also presents a plethora of engaging things to see and do.
The history of Henry VIII’s fortress is evident in every detail of the castle and its grounds. Take a free, guided tour of the keep, gun decks, Governor’s private rooms – and even immerse your senses in a wartime raid before visiting the Victorian War Shelter and tucking into some locally sourced refreshments at the Barrack Block. Read more about Pendennis Castle.
Helford/Fal River
Nestled on the western edge of Falmouth and the eastern fringes of The Lizard, the Helford River is an exquisite estuary comprising a network of idyllic creeks and small streams that are ideal for family days out. Take a boat ride to discover Daphne du Maurier’s muse of Frenchman’s Creek, wander the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and stop off at a riverside pub for an al fresco bite to eat. For more days out near here, read our blog on days out on The Lizard.
Flowing into the sea at Falmouth, the Fal River is another popular place to visit. Jump aboard the King Harry ferry to explore this magical area of Cornwall, where a wealth of beaches, gardens, attractions and activities await.
St Mawes and The Roseland
Utterly picturesque, this area is awash with picture-postcard scenery providing a beautiful backdrop to some seriously unique family days out in Cornwall. Walking and wildlife go hand in hand here, with a bevy of trails and paths to ramble and cycle along. Explore the stunning St Anthony Head by taking the Place Ferry between St Mawes and Place (Easter – beginning October only) or embark upon one of Enterprise Boat’s fleet for a summertime trip to Malpas, Truro (for the Hall For Cornwall, Truro Cathedral and Royal Cornwall Museum and Gallery), Smuggler’s Cottage and Trelissick Garden.
Flambards
There’s something to suit all types of visitor to Flambards, which is located just outside Helston. Experience a dizzying spin on the Hornet Rollercoaster, take a twisting ride on SkyRaker, jump on The Cornish Eye mini big wheel, and prepare to get wet on the Colorado River Log Flume. Little ones will find Gus Honeybun’s Burrow alongside sheltered soft play, science zone with laser maze, disorientation tunnel and other amazing attractions in Ferdi’s Funland.
Take a walk through history in Flambards’ award-winning undercover exhibitions. The Victorian Village has dozens of authentically recreated shops and scenes, while the brilliant Britain in the Blitz exhibition presents an inspired life-size recreation interpreting wartime.
Find out more about family attractions in Cornwall.
Ready for an action-packed, fun-filled escape to Cornwall? Browse all our holiday cottages in South Cornwall and start planning your next adventure.
Tags: Falmouth | Family | Helford River | Helston | The Lizard |