Things to do in Cornwall with the Kids This Summer
Are you planning a family summer holiday in Cornwall? There is so much to do in our wonderful coastal county, for children and teens of all ages. Find inspiration for fun-filled days out in our guide to Cornwall with the kids (for summer 2026).
Beach Days in Cornwall
From rock pools to surf schools. One of the many fabulous things about a family seaside holiday is how the beach appeals to every age. From making sand castles to learning how to surf, everyone from toddlers to teens can have a lovely day by the sea. Sunny days should smell of salt, sunblock and ice cream, and a day at the beach is always best finished with a good pile of fish and chips.
To find out more, read our guide to the best family beaches in Cornwall. We’ve chosen these for their facilities and accessibility; however, there are over 300 more to explore along Cornwall’s beautiful coastline!
Favourite Cornwall Family Attractions
There are so many great days out for families in Cornwall, from the heritage railway at Lappa Valley to jousts and reenactments at Pendennis Castle. If you love solving puzzles, head up the A20 to Hidden Valley outside Launceston. In the west, St Michael’s Mount, Tate St Ives and the Jubilee Pool all host family-friendly activities during the summer holidays.
Most of our guests visit the famous Eden Project near St Austell. None of us at Cornish Escapes has given it a go yet, but we hear great things about the giant wooden marble run, new for summer 2026 (very excited to try this soon!).
Days Out for Animal Lovers
If your kids love animals, head for Paradise Park in Hayle, home of the World Parrot Trust. As well as these beautiful birds, you will meet feathered friends of all shapes and sizes, from owls to penguins. Paradise Park also has a small farm, a miniature railway ride and a large indoor play area (ideal for rainy days).
Animal lovers can easily spend a day in Newquay, with its zoo, aquarium and nearby owl sanctuary. Everybody loves the Cornish Seal Sanctuary at Gweek on the Lizard Peninsula, and unlike many wildlife parks, dogs on leads are welcome in most areas. The Flicka Donkey Sanctuary is just seven miles from Gweek, and does incredible work with these lovely animals.
Castle Brea Farm near Penzance runs meet-the-animal sessions during school holidays, and younger children especially love hanging out with the friendly farm animals and pets. (Check their Facebook page for details and how to pre-book your visit.)
Adventurous Activities
A day admiring plants at Eden may not appeal to teenagers – but throw in a session or two at Hangloose and they might deign to tag along. They can soar over the biomes on a zip line (the fastest one in England!) or try the zero gravity swing. The aerial trekking course is a great way to experience this incredible setting.
Adrenaline Quarry near Liskeard is best-known for its huge inflatable water park (ages six and up), as well as zip lining, go karting and axe throwing (something for everyone). Walking and cycling families will enjoy the well-maintained paths and lovely surroundings of the Camel Trail and Cardinham Woods.
Summer Theatre in Cornwall
This summer, family-favourite performer John Brolly presents his latest one-man show, “The Piskie in the Garden” at the Minack Theatre. We love his lively blend of puppets, music and storytelling. Look out for plays, musicals and concerts in the evenings, too.
From Shakespeare to sea shanties, there is a packed programme at Penlee Park Open Theatre in Penzance this summer. With a different concert or production on most evenings, there’s bound to be something that appeals to you during your summer holiday.
Rogue Otherworld performs their unique outdoor productions in Tehidy Woods (near Pool). Follow the music and lights through the trees until you reach the performance space in a clearing: a truly immersive experience that is funny, mystical and very, very Cornish in equal parts. The afternoon performances are the best for younger children.
Book your Family Holiday in Cornwall
It is very easy to fill a week (or two) with family-friendly activities in Cornwall. Take a look at our family-friendly escapes to find luxury self-catering accommodation in beautiful Cornish locations.