Planning a family holiday to Cornwall? You’re in for a treat! Cornwall is the perfect English destination for kids (and grown-ups who still act like kids!). Think golden beaches, magical castles, exciting wildlife, and the best Cornish pasties you’ve ever tasted. Whether your little adventurers love rock pooling, exploring history, or simply building the world’s biggest sandcastle, this 7-day itinerary has got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Time
Start your Cornwall adventure with some quality beach time. After all, Cornwall is famous for its stunning coastline, and there is no better way to begin your trip than with a relaxing day by the sea. Perranporth Beach is among the best choice with its soft golden sand, lifeguards on duty, and even a beachside café where you can enjoy a traditional Cornish cream tea. The kids will love rock pooling, paddling in the sea, and running wild in the sand dunes. For a delicious family-friendly meal with incredible sea views, The Watering Hole, located right on the beach, is a great option. It is also a good idea to pack wetsuits for the children, as the waters can be quite chilly even in the summer.
Day 2: Exploring Cornwall’s History & Legends
Take a step back in time and embark on an adventure filled with knights, castles, and legendary tales. In the morning, visit Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. The kids will love exploring the ruins, crossing the dramatic footbridge, and imagining themselves as knights and princesses. In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle, where children and parents can marvel at sorcery and wizard artifacts laid over two floors. For lunch, The Beach Café in Trebarwith Strand is an excellent choice, offering quick bites with stunning coastal views. To make the day even more memorable, encourage the kids to bring a small notebook to jot down their own legendary adventure stories.
Day 3: Animal Encounters & Outdoor Fun
Today is all about discovering Cornwall’s incredible wildlife and enjoying the great outdoors. Start the morning at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek, where children can meet rescued seals, sea lions, and otters while learning about marine conservation. After a morning of animal encounters, head to Tehidy Woods for a relaxed family picnic and an easy woodland walk, where kids can spot squirrels and ducks. For a delicious meal to end the day, The Horse & Jockey in Helston serves up excellent wood-fired pizzas. Bringing binoculars can make the experience even more exciting, as you never know what wildlife you might spot
Day 4: Beach Adventure & Water Sports
Get ready for an active day filled with beach adventures and water-based fun. In the morning, try a beginner-friendly surfing lesson at Polzeath Beach. The waves here are perfect for first-timers, and the instructors are great with children. If surfing isn’t for your family, opt for a gentle paddleboarding session at Helford River, a safe and scenic spot with calm waters. For lunch, Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips in Padstow is a must-visit for a traditional taste of Cornwall. Make sure to bring a change of clothes, as spending a day in the water is bound to get everyone wet.
Day 5: Theme Park Fun & Rainy Day Options
If the kids are craving some extra excitement, today is all about theme park thrills and adventure. In the morning, visit Camel Creek Adventure Park, which features fun rides for all ages, along with animal encounters and soft play areas. For a rainy-day alternative, head to the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay, where children can get up close with sharks, turtles, and seahorses. After an action-packed day, enjoy a meal at The Stable in Fistral Beach, known for its delicious pizzas and incredible sea views. Checking online for discount tickets before visiting theme parks is a great way to save money.
Day 6: Scenic Train Ride & Hidden Gems
After all the excitement of the past few days, slow things down and soak in some of Cornwall’s most beautiful scenery. In the morning, take the St Ives Bay Line, a short but breathtaking train journey offering stunning coastal views. This option also saves the hassle of parking in St Ives, which can be difficult during peak seasons. In the afternoon, explore Kynance Cove, one of Cornwall’s most picturesque beaches, known for its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. Before heading back, stop at St Ives Bakery for some Cornish pasties or scones. To make the most of Kynance Cove, plan your visit during low tide to explore the caves and rock pools.
Day 7: Souvenirs & Departure
It’s the final day of your Cornwall adventure, but there is still time for a little more fun before heading home. Spend the morning picking up souvenirs in Truro, where you can find Cornish fudge, hand-crafted gifts, and even cuddly toy seals as mementos. Before leaving, grab one last Cornish pasty at Philps Bakery, one of the best places to try this local delicacy. If you have time before setting off, a quick stop at Holywell Bay for one final beach walk is a lovely way to say goodbye to Cornwall.
Here are 3 Final Tips for a Stress-Free Family Holiday in Cornwall
- Pack layers, as Cornish weather can be unpredictable (even in the summer)
- Pre-book major attractions like the Eden Project, especially during peak summer months
- Bring plenty of snacks for little explorers.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap! Cornwall is packed with incredible experiences for families, and this itinerary will help you make the most of every moment. Ready to start planning your trip? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Cornwall with kids for even more ideas!
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