Things to do in Cornwall when it rains

Cornwall might be famous for its stunning beaches and coastal walks, but the fun doesn’t stop when the weather takes a turn! Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, or budget-friendly indoor activities, there’s plenty to do in Cornwall when it rains.

Best indoor activities in Cornwall

1. Explore the Eden Project

The Eden Project is a fantastic all-weather attraction, home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Wander through tropical biomes, explore fascinating exhibitions, and take part in workshops for all ages. It’s an immersive experience that feels like stepping into another world – perfect for escaping the drizzle. There's a restaurant and cafe on site, as well as a brilliant gift shop, meaning you can easily spend a full day there to ride out a rainy day in Cornwall.

2. Explore Carnglaze Caverns

Step underground into these spectacular former slate mines near Liskeard. Carnglaze Cavern's caves are beautifully lit, and the underground lake adds a magical touch, making this a unique all-weather adventure.

3. Discover Cornwall’s museums & galleries

Cornwall is rich in history, art, and culture, and there are plenty of indoor museums and galleries to explore on a rainy day:

• National Maritime Museum Cornwall (Falmouth): Discover Cornwall’s seafaring past with interactive exhibits and historic boats.
• Royal Cornwall Museum (Truro): Learn about Cornwall’s archaeology, mining heritage, and local art.
• Tate St Ives: A must-visit for art lovers, showcasing contemporary and modern art inspired by Cornwall’s unique landscapes.
• Bodmin Keep - Cornwall’s Army Museum: Explore fascinating military history through hands-on displays and exhibits.
• The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic (Boscastle): A truly unique experience exploring the myths, legends, and history of magic.
• PK Porthcurno (Porthcurno Telegraph Museum): Learn about the history of global communications at this interactive museum.

4. Visit Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm

Enjoy a guided tour Healey's Cornish Cyder Farm, where you can see how cider is made, explore the farm, and sample award-winning beverages. There's even a tractor ride and friendly farm animals to keep kids entertained. You'll find plenty of indoor and covered areas, making it easy to stay warm and dry if the weather turns.

5. Indoor fun at a soft play or leisure centre

If you’re looking for family-friendly indoor activities, Cornwall has some great soft play centres and leisure facilities, ideal for tiring out energetic kids if you're trapped indoors on a rainy day:

• Camel Creek Adventure Park (Wadebridge): An indoor play area alongside an adventure park with rides and animal experiences.
• Newquay Leisure World (Newquay): A fantastic indoor water park with flumes, soft play, and a trampoline park.

6. Try a Cornish cream tea

When the rain starts pouring, what better way to stay cosy than by enjoying a proper Cornish cream tea? Head to one of Cornwall’s many charming tearooms, such as Miss V’s tea room in Bodmin or The Cornish Bakery in Padstow, and tuck into freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream. Don't forget, it's jam first in Cornwall!

7. Take a surfing lesson

Rain or shine, surfing lessons continue all year round. You're going to get wet anyway, so it's a great way to fill a morning or afternoon on a rainy day. Most surf schools also provide warm wetsuits too, so you shouldn't be put off by a cold or overcast day.

8. Relax at a spa

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to unwind at one of Cornwall’s luxurious spas. Treat yourself to a massage, enjoy a soak in a hot tub with sea views, or indulge in a thermal spa experience at places like The Scarlet Spa, Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa, or The Headland Hotel. It's the ideal activity if you're on a couples' break or holidaying without the kids.

9. Experience Cornwall’s aquariums & zoos

For an exciting and educational day out, we'd recommend visiting one of Cornwall's wildlife attractions on a rainy day:

• Blue Reef Aquarium (Newquay): Get up close to marine life, from sharks to turtles, in this fantastic aquarium overlooking Towan Beach.
• Newquay Zoo: A small but well-loved zoo home to exotic animals, including big cats, penguins, and monkeys.
• Paradise Park (Hayle): A top pick for families, featuring a wildlife sanctuary, tropical birds, and an indoor play area.
• Screech Owl Sanctuary (St Columb): Get up close to rescued owls and other wildlife at this excellent indoor-outdoor experience.