The Adventure Seekers’ Guide to Cornwall
Are you looking for something a bit different to do on your Cornwall holidays? If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of exciting activities to try, including family-friendly options.
Take a look at our suggestions for action-packed days out in Cornwall.
Adrenalin Quarry
The name says it all, really. Go karting, wild swimming, axe throwing? There’s all this and more at this adrenaline-fuelled centre near Liskeard. If you’re looking for a new challenge, or simply want to wear out the teenagers, this is the place to come.
There are activities for all tastes and ages, from the electric mini-bikes for under-sixes to the adults-only karting grand prix. Add an aquapark, a zip wire, a giant swing and coasteering trips and you really do have a lot of thrills and spills to choose from.
Aquapark at Kernow Adventure Park
If the aquatic element of Adrenalin Quarry appealed to you the most (or you used to watch Total Wipeout), try Kernow Adventure Park in a quarry near Penryn, which has a fantastic aquapark.
Book ahead for an hour’s splash-filled fun (please note: it’s not suitable for kids under six). Admission includes a shortie wetsuit and a buoyancy aid. If you’re spending your Cornwall holidays in the west, Jubilee Pool lido in Penzance has an inflatable obstacle course for swimmers aged 8 and over.
Hangloose Adventure
See the biomes of Eden from a completely different angle – by zooming over them on England’s fastest zip wire. Hangloose Adventure Eden certainly brings a different perspective to the famous attraction.
As well as the Skywire, Hangloose has the Gravity giant swing, the Big Air giant air bag drop, Skytrek aerial trekking and the climbing centre. You can book an Activity Package if you fancy a day of adventures.
Padstow Sealife Safaris
Cornwall’s coast is rich in wildlife and the best way to spot native and visiting marine species is from the sea. Padstow Sealife Safaris offers a range of trips around the coastline, from a one-hour rib ride to a cruise across to Scilly.
Of course, the team can’t promise you’ll see a pod of dolphins or sail alongside seals; however, the odds are good as the expert crew knows the best spots. You’ll certainly spot seabirds, and the puffin safari boat trip is great fun.
Cornish Coasteering
When you were enjoying your boat ride, did you find yourself looking across at the cliffs and rocky foreshore, and thinking, “That looks an interesting place”? If so, coasteering could be your perfect adventure.
Cornish Coasteering at Port Gaverne or Dinham Farm takes groups of all abilities around Cornwall’s beautiful coastline. You’ll climb, scramble, jump and swim your way around nature’s adventure playground, accompanied by a qualified instructor.
Ocean Sports
How about learning a new skill on your Cornish adventure? Ocean Sports, on beautiful Carbis Bay beach, is the perfect place to have a go at stand up paddleboarding (SUP).
You can book a taster session or a series of lessons, or join one of their SUP safaris for a unique tour of St Ives Bay. Their 8-person Mega SUP is a must-hire for families or larger groups of friends – seriously good fun. Ocean Sports also hires wetsuits if you haven’t brought your own.
Cornish Heritage Safaris
If you’re looking for a more cerebral adventure, we’ve saved the best until last. Cornish Heritage Tours specialise in day tours of some of Cornwall’s most fascinating historic sites.
Spend a day exploring the prehistory of Bodmin Moor, or learn more about the legend of King Arthur at Tintagel. Book a tour of the far West of Cornwall or the Lizard peninsula, or take a tour of the top Cornish Poldark spots.
Unwind in your Cornwall holiday cottage
After all that excitement, it’s time to relax in your comfortable holiday cottage in Cornwall. Take a look at our selection of Cornish holiday cottages – just perfect after a day’s adventuring.