Things To Do in May Half Term in Cornwall

Outdoor Things to Do

Fingers crossed, the weather is usually pretty gorgeous in May. The average temperature is around 14 degrees, with an average of only nine days’ rainfall (trust us, that is good for the south west). So, May half term is the perfect time to get outside and explore Cornwall’s beautiful paths and subtropical gardens.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan has a special treat in store this half term. Join them for Heligan Wild Week, where the family gets to pick a tribe, create a headdress, then take part in all sorts of wild adventures. They also offer a relaxed session for guests with additional needs or who may prefer a quieter adventure.

Expect lots of fun trails, treasure hunts and outdoor activities from the National Trust in Cornwall, too. Keep an eye on their website for programme updates.

Half Term Visitor Attractions

The fabulous National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth has a packed events programme for kids. Their exhibitions really are world-class and a must-see on your holidays in Cornwall.

The museum also runs a series of special rockpool workshops during the May holidays. Book onto a Rockpool Explorers workshop or craft session or take the rockpool trail around the galleries.

May half term at the Eden Project sees Aardman’s hit animated series, Lloyd of the Flies, taking over the gardens and biomes. Other attractions to look out for include Newquay Zoo and Paradise Park in Hayle, which are all popular half-term days out.

Exhibitions this May Half Term

Tate St Ives runs a year-round programme of family-friendly events, including fun sessions for toddlers. May half term also sees the launch of a collaborative drop-in pottery workshop with Studio Leach. Open to visitors of all ages, participants can contribute their decorations made in the workshop to three hand-thrown pots that will be fired and put on display. If your family prefers to make their own works of art, look out for special events and workshops at the excellent Leach Pottery in St Ives. The museum and exhibitions are definitely worth exploring too.

Over the peninsula, Penzance’s lovely Penlee House Museum and Gallery hosts a wonderful range of exhibitions covering topics from authors to climate. Again, check out any events for younger art enthusiasts over the holidays.

May Half Term Shows

A trip to the wonderful Minack Theatre is on many people’s Cornwall holiday list. During May half term, you can catch Myths and Monsters, where kids can learn about the heroes and monsters of ancient Greece. The theatre is also open for visitors at other times, so you can explore backstage and learn more about the unique venue’s fascinating history.