Summer in Cornwall with the Kids: A Guide to Unforgettable Family Adventures

When it comes to idyllic summer holidays in the UK, few places rival the enchanting county of Cornwall. With its breathtaking beaches, picturesque villages, and a wealth of family-friendly activities, Cornwall promises a blend of relaxation and adventure that will keep both kids and adults captivated. In this guide, we’ll dive into what makes summer in Cornwall so special for families, and share insider tips to make your Cornish escape truly unforgettable.

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Cornwall’s Beaches: A Summertime Playground

Cornwall’s diverse coastline is its crowning jewel, and no summer trip is complete without ample beach time. Let’s explore a few must-visits:

  • Porthcurno: This sheltered cove boasts powdery sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic clifftop views โ€“ picture-postcard perfection!
  • Fistral Beach, Newquay: A surfer’s paradise, Fistral is also fantastic for families. Catch a surf lesson, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, or simply build epic sandcastles.
  • Perranporth: A vast expanse of golden sand, Perranporth is ideal for exploring rock pools teeming with marine life at low tide.

xz Coastal Adventures Beyond the Beach

While Cornwall’s beaches may steal the limelight, there’s much more seaside fun to be had:

  • South West Coast Path: This scenic trail stretches across Cornwall’s rugged coastline. Choose shorter, family-friendly sections for walks with breathtaking views.
  • Boat Trips: Embark on a wildlife-watching boat trip for the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and even basking sharks!
  • Rockpooling: Arm yourselves with buckets and nets for low-tide adventures. Little ones will be mesmerized by the treasures hidden in the rock pools.

Must-Visit Family Attractions

Cornwall is brimming with attractions that will delight both adults and kids:

  • The Eden Project: Nestle within giant biomes, this unique attraction offers a journey through diverse ecosystems. It’s both awe-inspiring and educational.
  • The Lost Gardens of Heligan: This enchanting garden features hidden pathways, whimsical sculptures, jungle-like trails, and even a thrilling rope bridge!
  • Camel Creek Adventure Park: If your crew craves excitement, Camel Creek delivers with its variety of rides, water slides, and animal encounters.

Exploring Cornwall’s Charming Villages

Step into the picture-perfect world of Cornish fishing villages, each with its own unique allure:

  • St. Ives: A maze of cobbled streets, galleries, and independent shops, St. Ives is a popular destination. Top tip: visit outside peak hours with young children.
  • Port Isaac: Made famous by the TV series ‘Doc Martin’, Port Isaac exudes traditional charm, with seafood restaurants lining its narrow harbor.

Treats & Eats: Unique Cornish Delights

Food is an intrinsic part of any holiday, and Cornwall has some iconic treats in store:

  • The Cornish Pasty: These hearty hand-held pies filled with meat and vegetables are the perfect portable lunch. Engage in a friendly competition for the best bakery!
  • Cream Tea: Indulge in fluffy scones piled high with jam and thick Cornish clotted cream โ€“ a true Cornish tradition.
  • Ice Cream: On sunny days, cool down with delicious locally-made ice cream in a myriad of flavors.

Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family

Cornwall is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering activities for all ages and abilities:

  • Surfing: Catch your first wave! Many surf schools cater to beginners of all ages.
  • Coasteering: If your older kids crave adrenaline, consider a guided coasteering adventure exploring the coastline in a unique and exhilarating way.
  • Open-Air Theatre: Experience magical shows at the iconic Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffside with the ocean as a backdrop.

Encountering Cornwall’s Wildlife

Cornwall’s seas and shores are teeming with life, providing wonderful wildlife encounters:

  • Seal Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled along the coast, especially at spots like Godrevy Point, for a chance to see these playful creatures.
  • Birdwatching: Coastal reserves are havens for seabirds. Pack your binoculars for some feathered fun.
  • Cornish Seal Sanctuary: Visit this wonderful sanctuary in Gweek for heartwarming encounters with rescued seals and a chance to learn about marine conservation.

Rainy Day Plans: Because Sunshine Isn’t Guaranteed

Even in summer, the Cornish weather can be a tad unpredictable. Don’t worry, here are rainy-day alternatives:

  • National Maritime Museum, Falmouth:Immerse yourselves in maritime history with interactive exhibits and an impressive boat collection.
  • Indoor Play Centres: Let kids run wild in soft play areas across various towns in Cornwall, perfect for burning off energy on a wet day.
  • Cosy Cornish Cafes: Relax with hot chocolates, board games, and perhaps a stack of books from a local bookshop.

Choosing Your Perfect Cornish Base

The type of accommodation you choose plays a big role in shaping your family holiday:

  • Campsites: For those seeking adventure and the great outdoors, Cornwall boasts an abundance of family-friendly campsites.
  • Holiday Cottages: Traditional holiday cottages offer self-catering convenience and a home-away-from-home feel, especially for longer stays.
  • Family-Friendly Hotels: Some hotels go above and beyond with pools, kids’ clubs, and activities to keep young ones entertained.

Getting Around Cornwall

While a car provides the most flexibility for exploring, here are other options:

  • Scenic Train Journeys: Embrace the relaxed pace of travel with train routes along the coast offering stunning views.
  • Foot Ferries: Hop across to different towns and experience the beauty of Cornwall from the water.

What to Pack for Cornwall with Kids

The secret to a stress-free Cornish trip is smart packing:

  • Layers are Key: The weather can change quickly, so pack light layers to adapt to warmer temperatures or a sudden downpour.
  • Beach Essentials: Swimsuits, beach towels, buckets, spades, and sun protection are summer holiday must-haves.
  • Walking Shoes & Wellies: Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for exploring the coast and countryside. Wellies come in handy for muddy puddles and exploring rock pools!

Summer Events & Festivals in Cornwall

Cornwall’s summer calendar bursts with festivals and events. Here are some family-friendly options:

  • Local open-air markets: Discover unique crafts and tasty treats, a fun immersion into Cornish life.
  • Family-focused festivals: Keep an eye on local listings for festivals with music, workshops, and activities tailored to families.

Making Memories to Last a Lifetime

Beyond the specific activities, it’s the simple joys that make a Cornish family holiday so special:

  • Slowing Down: Leave the daily rush behind and adjust to the relaxed Cornish pace.
  • Sandcastle Competitions & Paddles:Beach time is as important as any planned excursion.
  • Moments over Photos: Capture photos and videos, but remember to be fully present and enjoy those precious family moments.

In summary

With its unique blend of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and quintessential charm, Cornwall casts a spell that makes it an ideal summer destination for families. From building legendary sandcastles to embracing outdoor adventures, a holiday in Cornwall will create a treasure trove of memories your family will cherish for a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your unforgettable Cornish adventure with the kids today!

Your Turn!

Have you ventured to Cornwall with your family? We’d love to hear about your favorite spots and experiences. Share your tips and stories in the comments below!

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