Things to do in Cornwall in the rain

Don't let the wet weather dampen your spirits!

Posted on 03-05-24, updated on 14-03-25By: Sarah R. | 13 minute read

Happy family under a colourful umbrella in the rain

Rainy day activities in Cornwall

While Cornwall is known for its picturesque beaches and stunning coastline, let's face it, you can't always rely on the Great British weather to be as beautiful! But fear not, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this enchanting county even when the sun isn't shining. From visiting museums and galleries to exploring aquariums and underground caverns, we've got you covered with our guide to things to do in Cornwall in the rain. So, grab your umbrella, zip up your waterproof and let's explore all that Cornwall has to offer, come rain or shine!

Once you've planned your weather-proof activities, find the perfect place to stay with our choice of lodges and holiday parks in Cornwall.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth, Cornwall, UK

National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth, Cornwall

Museums

Offering a fascinating insight into the culture and heritage of the area, museum visits are a perfect way to spend a rainy day in Cornwall. The county is home to a variety of museums that showcase its rich history, from the mining heritage of the region to its maritime past. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibitions, learn about local traditions and discover the stories of the people who have called Cornwall home.

Shipwreck Treasure Museum, St Austell

You'll find the Shipwreck Treasure Museum in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Charlestown, the last open 18th-century Georgian harbour in the UK. The museum itself is housed within the Merchants of Charleston building, which overlooks the harbour, and is a fascinating and unique attraction for visitors of all ages. With a diverse collection of artifacts salvaged from sunken ships, you can learn all about the history of shipwrecks and the treasures they left behind in the depths of the sea.

Postcode: PL25 3NJ
Opening hours: Daily 10am-4pm (last entry is 3.30pm)
Tickets: Entry to the museum is £4.50 for children (5-17 years) and £8.50 for adults. Children under 5 years are free

PK Porthcurno, Museum of Global Communications, Porthcurno

PK Porthcurno (formerly the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum) is a fascinating attraction in South Cornwall that offers insights into the history of global communication. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing how telegraph cables revolutionised long-distance communication and learn about the vital role Porthcurno played in connecting the world. It's a great indoor activity to enjoy on a rainy day in Cornwall.

Tip: Unlike many museums in the UK, this one is actually dog friendly inside - the only place they can't go is in the World War II bunker.

Postcode: TR19 6JX
Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm, April-October - winter opening hours vary
Tickets: Entry is £6 for children (5-17 years) and £12 for adults. Children under 5 years are free

National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth

Discover the rich seafaring history of the region through interactive exhibits and displays at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. From historic boats and artifacts to interactive exhibits, there is plenty to see and do in this harbourside building in Falmouth, even on a rainy day!

Postcode: TR11 3QY
Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Tickets: It's £9 for children (5-17 years) and £18 for adults. Children under 5 years are free. Tickets double as an annual pass, allowing you to visit the museum as many times as you like within 1 year of your initial purchase

Tate St Ives, St Ives, Cornwall, UK

Tate St Ives, St Ives, Cornwall

Art galleries

Galleries are a fantastic activity for a rainy day in Cornwall because they offer a peaceful and sheltered environment to explore and appreciate art. With a vibrant and diverse art scene, visitors can immerse themselves in local and international artwork, ranging from traditional to contemporary pieces. Whether it's a quaint boutique gallery or a larger institution, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, galleries often offer workshops, talks and special exhibitions, making it a great option for a cultural and enriching experience, all while staying dry from the unpredictable British weather!

Tate St Ives, St Ives

Whether you're seeking shelter from the rain or simply looking for a cultural experience, Tate St Ives is a wonderful choice for a day out in Cornwall. The modern and contemporary art gallery offers a wealth of fascinating exhibitions and collections that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. The stunning ocean views from the gallery's large windows provide a peaceful and inspiring backdrop as you explore the diverse range of artwork on display. The gallery also offers a variety of interactive activities and workshops, making it a great option for families and art enthusiasts alike. Plus, if the sun does start shining, you can step outside right onto Porthmeor Beach!

Postcode: TR26 1TG
Opening hours: Daily 10am-5.20pm
Tickets: Free entry for Tate Members, otherwise tickets start from £11 depending on the event or exhibition you wish you attend

Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance

If you find yourself seeking shelter from the rain in Penzance, look no further than the Penlee House Gallery & Museum. This hidden gem offers a captivating journey through the history and art of Cornwall, showcasing a diverse collection of paintings, photographs and artifacts that tell the story of this unique region. From the enchanting gardens surrounding the historic house to the thought-provoking exhibitions inside, Penlee House is a place where creativity and culture come together to inspire and educate. Take refuge from the wet weather and immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of Cornwall at this wonderful museum.

Postcode: TR18 4HE
Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm, April-October; 10am-4.30pm, November-March
Tickets: Admission is £4 for young adults (18-26 years) and £8 for adults. Children under 18 years are free

Falmouth Art Gallery, Falmouth

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque coastal town of Falmouth, Falmouth Art Gallery boasts a diverse collection of artwork spanning centuries, and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and rainy-day visitors alike. With regular exhibitions featuring both international and local artists, there is always something new and exciting to discover. So, why not take shelter from the rain and explore the fascinating exhibits that Falmouth Art Gallery has to offer? You won't be disappointed.

Tip: The gallery is dog friendly.

Postcode: TR11 2RT
Opening hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun 10am-4pm, Wed 10am-1pm
Tickets: Entry is free - it's one of our top free things to do in Cornwall!

Child watching fish in an aquarium

Aquariums

A trip to one of Cornwall's aquariums provides a fun and educational experience for all ages, allowing visitors to escape the wet weather and immerse themselves in a fascinating underwater world. From colourful fish to majestic seahorses, there is always something mesmerising to see. The tranquil atmosphere of the aquarium also offers a peaceful respite from the stormy weather outside, making it the perfect indoor activity for a drizzly day in this beautiful coastal region.

Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay

Overlooking Towan Beach near the bustling town centre, Newquay's Blue Reef Aquarium offers an enchanting experience for families, rain or no rain! Step inside and explore the wonders of the ocean, from tropical fish to majestic sharks and graceful stingrays. Don't miss the underwater tunnel, where you can watch marine life swimming right above your head. This magical world is sure to inspire and delight both young and old, making it a memorable and educational experience for all, whatever the weather!

Postcode: TR7 1DU
Opening hours: Daily from 10am - closing times vary throughout the year
Tickets: Entry is £11.10 for juniors (3-12 years) and £14 for visitors aged 13 and over. Children under 3 years are free. Pre-booking is advised

Stay nearby at one of our holiday parks in Newquay.

Fowey Aquarium, Fowey

The Fowey Aquarium is a charming marine museum on the south coast of Cornwall. Home to a variety of sea creatures and interactive exhibits, it's a great day out for families with children of all ages. Learn all about the diverse marine life found in the area and enjoy a unique indoor experience while staying dry and entertained - win-win!

Tip: The aquarium is dog friendly.

Postcode: PL23 1AT
Opening hours: These vary by month so it's best to check the Fowey Aquarium website
Tickets: Entry is £4.50 for children (3-13 years) and £16 for adults. Children under 3 years are free

Mevagissey Aquarium, Mevagissey

Housed within the RNLI lifeboat house on Mevagissey Harbour, just a short drive from St Austell, this small and friendly aquarium is a charity project, with all proceeds going back into the harbour. On your tour, you'll explore a variety of marine life exhibits and learn about the diverse underwater ecosystems of the region. It's a great option for families or anyone looking to escape the rain and experience the wonders of the sea!

Postcode: PL26 6QQ
Opening hours: Daily 10am-6pm, late May-October
Tickets: Entry is free, but a donation is appreciated

Child going down a slide at an indoor play area

Indoor play areas

Indoor play areas, adventure playgrounds and parks are a great place to spend a rainy day in Cornwall. These spaces offer a safe and dry environment for younger children to let off steam and burn energy, no matter the weather outside. Kids can climb, slide and explore to their hearts' content, keeping them entertained and active while parents relax and enjoy a coffee or a snack. With a variety of play equipment and activities to suit all ages, this is a fun and engaging experience for the whole family.

Paradise Park and JungleBarn Cornwall, Hayle

At first glance, this award-winning wildlife sanctuary may seem better suited to sunny days and dry weather, however, there are actually plenty of indoor and undercover spaces to enjoy even on rainy days! The indoor jungle barn within the park is a large, brightly coloured space filled with slides, climbing frames and soft play areas, providing hours of fun for children of all ages. The jungle theme adds to the excitement, with exotic plants and animals decorating the walls. Parents can relax in the café area while keeping an eye on their little ones as they play.

Postcode: TR27 4HY
Opening hours: Daily 10.30am-5.30pm (April-October) - opening hours vary in winter, when the indoor play centre stays open after the park has closed
Tickets: Entry for the park and indoor play centre is £16.95 for children (3-15 years) and £20.95 for adults. Children under 3 years are free but still require a ticket

Dairyland Farm Park, Newquay

Dairyland Farm Park offers a fun and educational indoor experience for families. A sunny day here is all about pony rides, wildlife trails and trampolines, but when it's raining outside, visitors can still enjoy a huge range of activities including exploring the working farm, interacting with farm animals and learning about agriculture in a cosy, covered setting. Whizz down the giant slides in the Bull Pen, bottle feed baby animals in the Hay Barn or learn all about local farming heritage in the Cornish Life Museum. You'll be having so much fun inside, you won't even know it's raining!

Postcode: TR8 5AA
Opening hours: Daily 10am-5pm April-September; Thursday-Sunday 10am-5pm, January-March
Tickets: Entry is £16.95 for children (over 80cm) and £14.95 for adults. Children under 80cm are free

Kidzworld Adventure Play, St Austell

When it comes to indoor play centres, it doesn't get much better than this! With separate areas for babies and toddlers, as well as older children, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From soft play and ball pools to slides and climbing frames, you're sure to find something to keep the kids entertained. The onsite café serves a range of delicious snacks and drinks, making it easy for parents to relax while their little ones play. With plenty of seating and free parking, Kidzworld Adventure Play is a great option for a fun and engaging day out in St Austell, especially when the weather is less than ideal.

Postcode: PL25 3RP
Opening hours: The indoor play area is open 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm on weekends and during school holidays, otherwise it's open 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm Wednesday-Friday during school term time
Tickets: Entry for an indoor play session is £4.50 for children 90-100cm tall, from £6 for children over 100cm and from £2 for adults. Children under 90cm are free. Prices vary by off-peak/peak seasons

Girl explores underground tunnel with a torchlight

Underground caverns

Exploring underground caves, caverns and other experiences in Cornwall during rainy weather is a fantastic activity that offers a unique and immersive experience for the whole family. The rain can add an extra element of excitement and mystery as you navigate through the dark, damp passageways, marvelling at the stunning rock formations, underground streams or mysterious tunnels. The cool, damp atmosphere can also provide relief from the rain outside, making it a great way to stay dry while still enjoying the natural beauty of Cornwall. Additionally, many of these sites are rich in history and folklore, adding another layer of intrigue to your exploration.

Carnglaze Caverns, Liskeard

Escape the rain and step into the magical underground world of Carnglaze Caverns, a former quarry set against 8 acres of ancient oak woodland on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Explore the stunning subterranean caves and crystal-clear underground lake, all while staying dry and cosy on a dreary day in Cornwall. Book your visit now and experience this hidden gem for yourself!

Postcode: PL14 6HQ
Opening hours: Daily 10am-8pm in high season and 10am-5pm Wednesday-Sunday in low season
Tickets: Entry to the caverns is £6 for children (3-15 years) and £10 for adults. Children under 3 are free

Our Liskeard lodges and holiday parks can provide the perfect base for your Cornish getaway.

Geevor Tin Mine, Pendeen

Geevor Tin Mine is a fascinating attraction near Penzance that allows you to step back in time and explore a real working tin mine. With its underground tunnels, interactive exhibits and knowledgeable guides, it's a perfect rainy day activity for those looking to stay dry and learn about Cornwall's rich mining history.

Postcode: TR19 7EW
Opening hours: Sunday-Friday from 9am - last entry is 3pm November-March and 4pm April-October
Tickets: It's £11.60 for children (4 years and over) and from £16 for adults, or you can book a family ticket for £63 for 2 adults and up to 3 children. Children under 4 years are free

Bodmin Jail Attraction, Bodmin

On a wet day in Bodmin, those who are brave enough can seek shelter down inside Bodmin Jail, a historic prison with a dark past, which you can learn all about through interactive exhibits, guided tours and late night ghost walks. The jail's eerie atmosphere and haunting stories make it a captivating and unique attraction for adults and older children. It is said to be haunted by the spirits of former inmates, making it a thrilling and chilling adventure for those who dare to venture through its dark and mysterious corridors!

Tip: There are different events and tours to cater to children, teenagers and adults, so check these in advance if you're not sure what is suitable for your child's age group

Postcode: PL31 2NR
Opening hours: Daily 9.30am-4pm - times may vary depending on tours and events, so it's best to check the Bodmin Jail website in advance
Tickets: Jail entry is £13.50 for children (5-15 years) and £19.50 for adults, or you can book a family ticket from £42. Children under 5 years are free. You can also book tickets for ghost walks or guided tours

Lots of keys surrounding a lock

Escape rooms

Whether you're a family looking for a unique bonding activity, a group of friends seeking some excitement or a couple wanting to put your communication skills to the test, escape rooms provide a thrilling and engaging way to spend time together - whilst also staying out of the rain! These immersive and challenging experiences offer the perfect blend of fun, teamwork and problem-solving, and with a variety of themes to choose from, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your team and head to an escape room in Cornwall for an unforgettable and adrenaline-pumping adventure!

Tip: Keep in mind that due to the often sensitive and scary nature of some of these games, they are not always suitable for young children and age restrictions may apply.

Eureka Escape Falmouth

Eureka Escape offers an immersive and exciting escape room experience in the heart of the picturesque town of Falmouth. With several escape rooms to choose from, players are challenged to work together to solve puzzles, uncover clues and ultimately escape the room before time runs out. Whether you're a seasoned escape room enthusiast or a first-timer looking for a unique and fun experience, Eureka Escape in Falmouth is sure to provide an unforgettable adventure. Come and test your wits and see if you have what it takes to unlock the mysteries and escape to victory!

Tip: Eureka Escape also has sites in Penzance and Truro.

Postcode: TR11 3AE
Opening hours: These vary depending on the time of year, so it's best to check directly with Eureka Escape
Tickets: Prices start from £16 per person, depending on how many players there are per room (the more players there are, the cheaper it is)

Housetrap Escape Rooms, Bodmin

Housetrap Escape Rooms in Bodmin offers an exciting and immersive escape room experience on the outskirts of town. With a selection of different rooms to choose from, participants can put their problem-solving abilities and intelligence to the test in an engaging and stimulating environment.

Postcode: PL31 1EY
Opening hours: These vary depending on the time of year, so it's best to check directly with Housetrap Escape Rooms
Tickets: Prices vary depending on group sizes, but start from £50 for 2 people

Escape Time St Ives, St Ives

Escape Time St Ives is a popular escape room attraction in the picturesque seaside town of St Ives in North Cornwall. With a variety of themed rooms to choose from, visitors can immerse themselves in exciting challenges and puzzles as they solve mysteries and race against the clock to escape. Perfect for a rainy day activity, with rooms to suit a range of group sizes, Escape Time St Ives offers a fun and interactive experience for friends, families and couples looking for a unique and memorable adventure on their Cornish holiday.

Postcode: TR26 2DN
Opening hours: Daily 9.30am-9.30pm
Tickets: Prices vary depending on group sizes, but start from £60 for 2 people

Ditch the rainy day blues

Whether you're looking for things to do in Cornwall in the rain with dogs, toddlers, teenagers or adults, the weather doesn't have to spoil any of your fun! With plenty of indoor activities, attractions and cosy spots to explore, there are numerous ways to enjoy this beautiful region even when the skies are grey. So, don't let a little rain stop you from having a great time in Cornwall - get out there and make the most of your trip!

Looking for a cosy hideaway for the whole family? Discover our Cornwall caravan holidays.

Rainbow over Mawgan Porth Beach, Cornwall, UK

Rainbow over Mawgan Porth Beach, Cornwall

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