Cornwall is a truly beautiful place to visit, especially if you want to immerse yourself into the stunning countryside and explore both wild woodlands and untouched coastline. Cornish weather is also known to be one of the wettest places in Britain, which can often put a dampner on your outdoor plans! 

But that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a rainy day with some other activities while you’re waiting for the sun to come back out. There are plenty of other things that families can do on a rainy day that will help both adults and children stay happy, healthy and entertained. We’ve included a few close to Kilminorth and some further afield for longer adventures.

1. Eden Project (35 minutes, 20 miles from Kilminorth)

The iconic biomes of the Eden project are world-renowned and offer hours of adventure. 

The whole family can enjoy exploring this global garden, venturing through the Rainforest Biome, the Mediterranean Biome and the Education Centre exhibition space. Not only will you see an indoor rainforest, artworks and performances, you can also enjoy activities such as ice skating (seasonal), rock climbing and a sky wire – imagine the views which open up at 100m above this stunning landscape! Some activities are age-specific so do check before you book. 

OPEN: All year round

LOCATION: Bodelva, St Austell, PL24 2SG, 

WEBSITE: https://www.edenproject.com/visit

2. Bodmin Jail (30 minutes, just under 20miles from Kilminorth)

A step back in time, Bodmin Jail is an immersive experience just 30 minutes from Kilminorth. Originally built for King George lll in 1779, visitors are able to explore this once important part of Cornwall’s hidden history, learning about smugglers, miners and some infamous prisoners. There are different age-specific experiences available, from a Junior Jailers for younger family members to a more thrilling darker tale for young adults upwards. You might also catch a glimpse of the resident bats! After your adventure, you can enjoy relaxing in the historic courtyard bistro. 

OPEN: All year round

LOCATION: Berrycoombe Road, Bodmin, PL31 2NR, 

WEBSITE: www.bodminjail.org

3. Shipwreck Treasure Museum (40 minutes, 22miles from Kilminorth)

Shipwrecks, smuggling and pirates are synonymous with Cornwall’s exciting history. At the Shipwreck Museum in St Austell, all ages are invited to explore a deep sea treasure trail and learn more about the 8000 pieces recovered from the depths of the ocean. The museum is part of Charlestown, a beautifully preserved UNESCO world heritage site, providing a wonderful area to explore once the clouds have lifted. They also run events in the school holidays – they are very popular so booking is necessary. 

OPEN: May – January, closed February, March and April

LOCATION: Quay Road, Charlestown, St Austell, PL25 3NJ 

WEBSITE: https://www.shipwreckcharlestown.co.uk

4. National Marine Aquarium (45 minutes, 26 miles from Kilminorth)

The UK’s largest aquarium is around 45 minutes in the car from Kilminorth, and runs daily shows and family activities. There are 4 zones to explore, starting locally with the sea life of Plymouth Sound, taking you on a journey around the oceans of the world through to the Great Barrier Reef. Not only will you be able to see some of the fascinating creatures living in our seas, you can also meet some of the residents, including Neptune the giant octopus and Howie the sand shark! 

OPEN: All year round with seasonal opening times 

LOCATION: Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 0LF

WEBSITE: www.national-aquarium.co.uk

5. The Tide Climbing Centre, Wadebridge (48 minutes, 35 miles from Kilminorth)

Just under an hour away is The Tide Climbing Centre, a family-friendly climbing gym for all ages and skill levels to experience. Together you can enjoy the challenge of over 100 bouldering problems and 22 lines for rope climbing, alongside a highly-skilled team of instructors keeping you safe as you explore. This is a great sporting activity for active children (and adults!), practicing a skill that can further be developed around the country for an outdoor family camping adventure. After a thrilling climb, you can relax in their onsite café which is dog-friendly too. 

OPEN: All year round

LOCATION: Wadebridge, PL27 7SE

WEBSITE: https://tideclimbing.com 

6. Pirates Quest Adventure Golf (1 hour, 37 miles from Kilminorth)

Approximately 36 miles away on the west coast of Cornwall, you can enjoy a swashbuckling golf game for all the family! Embarking on your journey, you will find lost ships, mermaids, and giants, but look out for Davy Jones’ locker which glows mysteriously in the dark! To help you on your quest, you will be aided by real life pirates along the way, making this a memorable experience to take home. 

OPEN: All year round

LOCATION: 2 St Michaels Road, Newquay, TR7 1RA, 

WEBSITE: https://www.piratesquest.co.uk

Whatever your adventure, we would love to hear all about it! 

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We look forward to welcoming you to Kilminorth! If you’d like to get in touch, pop us an email to events@kilminorthcottages.co.uk and our team would be happy to assist you further.