There’s plenty for families to do in Cornwall out of season. Many attractions stay open all year round, and the climate’s milder here than the rest of the country. Sunny winter days are perfect for getting out and about – just wrap up warm and off you go!
Here are a few of our favourite tried-and-tested family friendly attractions and places to go:
1. The National Seal Sanctuary, Gweek. This one definitely has the awww factor! Based in the beautiful village of Gweek on the Helford Estuary, the Seal Sanctuary is responsible for rescuing, rehabilitating many seals each year, before releasing them back into the wild. They’ve also got penguins and otters. Feeding times and the wonderful underwater viewing areas are always a hit with the kids.
We’ve got discount vouchers for 50% off in the office, so pop in and see us before you go. Dogs on leads are also welcome, so you could combine a trip to see the seals with a walk.
2. Wheal Martyn, just up the road from Bosinver, offers a great day out for the whole family. Kids will love the adventure trail, play area and interactive displays, while grown ups can discover the story of the china clay industry. Dogs welcome throughout the site.
3. A visit to Cornwall isn’t complete without a visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan. There’s so much to see and do at Heligan. Pretend to be an explorer in the jungle area, see how much of Heligan’s wildlife you can spot, and see if you can find the sleeping Mudmaid…
Under 5s get in for free, and dogs on leads are welcome between 1 October and 31 March.
4. A short drive from Bosinver will take you down to Par, and the Wingz Bird Sanctuary. They’ve got 85 species of birds and animals, including parrots, owls, toucans, meerkats, tortoises, wallabies and marmosets!
They’re often all week during February half term (11-19 Feb) and every weekend from 11 Feb-1 April.
5. Get outdoors and explore Cardinham Woods, near Bodmin. There are several walks, a trail called ‘Stumped?’ that will get the whole family involved, and a great playground. There’s also a lovely cafe (set in an old woodsman’s cottage) with a warming open fire offering homemade stews and soups as well as sandwiches, cakes and cream teas.
February half term
If you’re planning on coming down to Bosinver during February half term, many of the bigger attractions like the Eden Project, and organisations like the National Trust have lots of special events planned. Try a family ghost tour at Pendennis Castle (great for older kids) or head to Paradise Park for their Pirate Trail. Shiver me timbers!
Or take a look at Day Out With the Kids for heaps of inspiration and information on what to do and where to go.
Ready, get set, go!
