Top Picks
Family-Friendly Fun in Cornwall: 14 Summer Activities
Feeling frazzled by the summer holiday hustle? At your wits' end trying to keep the kids entertained? Don't worry, we've got your back! Rain or shine, we've rustled up a list of top-notch activities that'll put a smile on everyone's face.
Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your routine or a visitor plotting the ultimate Cornish adventure, we’ve handpicked a bucket-load of brilliant activities just for you. From hands-on workshops to interactive shows, and prehistoric adventures to literary explorations, there’s something for all ages and interests. Read over our top picks and start discovering some the best activities and events that Cornwall has to offer.
1. Squashbox: Tales from the Trees
Fri 9th August, 2024
Trebah Garden, Falmouth
Squashbox Theatre’s “Tales from the Trees” is a must-see for families in Cornwall. This enchanting show, suitable for ages 5 and up, blends puppetry, storytelling, music, and comedy to create a magical forest adventure.
Follow Forest Ranger Craig as he navigates misadventures with quirky characters, all while learning about trees and nature. The performance cleverly weaves in educational elements about forest ecology and tree identification, making it both entertaining and informative.
With its unique mix of natural history, folklore, and environmental appreciation, “Tales from the Trees” offers a delightful and enriching experience for the whole family.
2. Trovya: Family Science Day
Sat 10th August, 2024
Coronation Park, Helston
Families looking for an exciting and educational day out in Cornwall should not miss Trovya’s (Discover) family science day. This action-packed day features Discovering 42’s rocket-building competition, where families can launch their creations over the boating lake.
Kids will love mixing colour-changing “curious cocktails” and creating rainbows. The “bubble bike” from Blystra Arts offers pedal-powered bubble fun, while Squashbox Theatre’s “Journey to the Stars” show provides stellar entertainment.
With its blend of hands-on science activities and captivating performances, Trovya’s event promises an exciting and educational experience for all ages, making it a top choice for family outings in Cornwall.
3. Legendary Joust at Pendennis Castle
Tue 13th — Thu 15th August, 2024
Pendennis Castle, Falmouth
For an exciting step back in time, don’t miss the medieval joust at Falmouth’s castle. This thrilling event features four legendary knights competing in a spectacular display of skill and bravery.
Families can cheer for their favourite character – The Wyvern, The Wildman, Sir Lancelot, or Jason of the Argonauts – as they clash in high-speed combat. Beyond the main event, visitors can immerse themselves in medieval life with ‘have-a-go’ archery for kids, falconry displays, and interactions with historical characters.
This blend of heart-pounding action and hands-on history makes the joust a top choice for families seeking unforgettable entertainment in Cornwall.
4. ‘Thunderboots’ with author Naomi Jones
Fri 16th August, 2024
National Trust Trelissick, Truro
At Trelissick, families can enjoy ‘Thunderboots’ story sessions with children’s author Naomi Jones. Aimed at ages 2-9, these interactive events feature Jones reading her latest picture book and sharing its inspiration.
Kids can practice superhero moves and create their own superhero characters in a fun workshop. These sessions offer a perfect mix of storytelling, creativity, and active participation. I
5. Children’s Pottery: Sea Creatures
Mon 5th — Mon 26th August, 2024
The Poly, Falmouth
In this enchanting workshop, children explore the world of mythical creatures through art. Participants learn about form, colour, and texture while crafting their own fantastical beings from air-dry clay.
The session culminates with each young artist taking home their unique creation. It’s an ideal opportunity for family bonding and creative expression. This magical blend of art and storytelling offers a memorable experience for families in Cornwall.
6. The Railway Children
Wed 14th — Sun 18th August, 2024
Helston Railway, Helston
Helston Theatre Company’s outdoor production of “The Railway Children” offers a unique family experience in Cornwall. The adventure begins with a steam train ride at Helston Railway, immersing visitors in Edwardian charm.
Families then enjoy Mike Kenny’s adaptation of the classic novel in a nearby marquee. This blend of live theatre and historic railway experience, set against Cornwall’s picturesque landscape, provides a perfect mix of nostalgia and excitement for all ages. It’s a delightful journey through time that promises to create lasting memories for the whole family.
7. WAX Cinema Plus: Jurassic Park
Sat 17th — Sun 18th August, 2024
WAX Gym, Newquay
WAX Cinema Plus is offering an extraordinary experience combining cinema and prehistoric thrills. The event features a screening of “Jurassic Park” on a 40-foot inflatable screen, complemented by life-sized dinosaur encounters from Dinomania, known from Britain’s Got Talent 2022.
Families can interact with realistic dinosaurs, including a T-Rex and Spinosaurus, while learning from Ranger Chris and his YouTube Rangers. This unique blend of movie magic and educational dinosaur encounters in Newquay provides an unforgettable adventure.
8. Make Club: Rocks and Pebbles
Tue 20th August, 2024
Endelienta Arts at St Endellion Church, Port Isaac
The Make Club in Cornwall offers a top family-friendly activity this August, transforming beach-combing into art. Participants will capture the textures and patterns of coastal pebbles and rocks through drawing and painting.
Led by local artists, this workshop provides a creative space for families to explore, get messy, and develop artistic skills together. The club’s monthly changing themes keep activities fresh and exciting.
This hands-on experience not only encourages artistic expression but also deepens appreciation for Cornwall’s natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a unique and engaging coastal activity.
9. The Set Sail Trail
Until Mon 2nd September, 2024
Wheal Martyn, St Austell
This summer, enjoy this interactive experience that combines education and adventure, inviting families to explore the museum and grounds while uncovering the history of china clay shipping.
Participants follow clues and complete a quiz, learning how Cornish clay has been transported worldwide. The trail offers an engaging way for all ages to discover local industrial heritage, making it an ideal choice for families seeking an entertaining and informative day out.
10. The Pop Party
Thu 22nd August, 2024
The Regal Theatre, Redruth
Pop Party is a standout, family-friendly event that brings TikTok trends to the live stage. This high-energy concert, tailored specifically for younger audiences, offers a vibrant showcase of current pop hits and viral sensations.
Pop Party creates an immersive experience that encourages audience participation, inviting kids and families to sing along and dance to their favorite tunes. From catchy pop anthems to empowering ballads, the concert covers a wide range of popular music styles. Pop Party promises to create lasting memories and provide a fun-filled outing that both kids and parents can enjoy together.
11. Kids Art Class: Simply Colour
Fri 23rd August, 2024
St Ives School of Painting, St Ives
These 2.5-hour sessions are specially designed for children aged 7-13, providing a perfect blend of education and fun in a picturesque setting.
Held in studios overlooking the beautiful St Ives beach, these classes offer young artists a chance to explore the vibrant world of colour. Drawing inspiration from the works of Etel Adnan, the renowned Arab-American poet and visual artist, children will learn various techniques for working with intense colours.
The classes provide a unique opportunity for kids to develop their artistic skills while gaining insight into the work of a significant contemporary artist.
12. The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Tue 27th — Thu 29th August, 2024
Hall for Cornwall, Truro
The Tiger Who Came to Tea, an Olivier Award-nominated West End hit, is coming to Hall for Cornwall this August, offering families a top-tier theatrical experience. This musical adaptation of Judith Kerr’s beloved children’s book, directed by David Wood, brings the story of Sophie and her unexpected tiger visitor to life.
The production features magic, sing-along songs, and playful chaos; this show stands out as a must-see, family-friendly performance in Cornwall, promising a delightful shared experience for parents and children alike.
13. Crazy Football Golf Newquay
Until Sun 1st September, 2024
Crazy Football Golf, Newquay
Get active with the whole family this August! This entertaining sport combines the best of football and golf, offering a fresh twist on two classic games. Players navigate a course filled with obstacles and targets, using their football skills to “putt” through each hole.
The game is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels, making it an ideal family activity. It encourages friendly competition and provides plenty of laughs as players attempt to manoeuvre their footballs through the course.
Set in Cornwall’s beautiful landscape, this activity offers a perfect blend of sport, strategy, and outdoor fun. It’s an excellent way for families to spend quality time together while enjoying some light exercise and friendly rivalry.
14. Summer Activities at Liskeard Library
Until Sat 14th September, 2024
Liskeard Library, Liskeard
Liskeard Library stands out as a hub for family-friendly activities in Cornwall this summer. Offering a diverse range of events, it’s a top pick for parents looking to keep their children engaged and learning during the holidays.
The library’s program includes exciting tech-focused activities like Junior Lego Robotics, 360 Filmmaking, and VR Gaming competitions, perfect for young tech enthusiasts.
Creative minds will enjoy the Children’s Creative Writing Workshop and Page To Picture Drawing Workshop. The Summer Reading Challenge encourages literacy, while Marvellous Maker Mondays and Rhyme Time cater to different age groups and interests.