The Longstore & Tiny Store Guidebook
Sightseeing
The Eden Project is an educational charity which aims to connect visitors to the natural world, exploring how we can work towards a better future. The huge, unique Biomes house the largest rainforest in captivity, stunning contemporary gardens and exciting exhibitions and events.
An amazing place to visit in any weather, highlights for kids include the rainforest canopy walkway, a beautiful ice rink and SkyWire, England’s longest zip wire over the Biomes. There are also a huge array of seasonal events especially for families, all throughout the year – check the website before you visit to see what’s on.
1111 locals recommend
Eden Project
The Eden Project is an educational charity which aims to connect visitors to the natural world, exploring how we can work towards a better future. The huge, unique Biomes house the largest rainforest in captivity, stunning contemporary gardens and exciting exhibitions and events.
An amazing place to visit in any weather, highlights for kids include the rainforest canopy walkway, a beautiful ice rink and SkyWire, England’s longest zip wire over the Biomes. There are also a huge array of seasonal events especially for families, all throughout the year – check the website before you visit to see what’s on.
Fowey
Quaint harbour town
Padstow
Rick Steins Seafood, Paul Ainsworth No. 6.
Quaint harbour town
Truro
Cornwall's city
Polzeath Beach
South West Coast PathGood beach, surf lessons etc
Harlyn Bay Beach
Lovely beach, watersports available, close to Padstow
Mylor Yacht Harbour
ChurchtownRYA schools, boat rental, cafe
Porthpean Beach
Porthpean Beach RoadSafe beach on south coast, cafe & toilets
Pentewan Beach
Safe beach on South Coast, watersports available & Hubbox for food
Sister of Eden Project, beautiful gardens, Like something out of a fairytale, these hidden gardens have an amazing story behind them. Twenty-nine years ago, Heligan’s historic gardens were hidden under overgrown brambles. It was only the chance discovery of a door in the ruins that led to the restoration of this beautiful estate. They are now some of the finest gardens in the country, and a joy to explore with children. One of the best outdoor things to do in Cornwall with the kids.
594 locals recommend
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
B3273Sister of Eden Project, beautiful gardens, Like something out of a fairytale, these hidden gardens have an amazing story behind them. Twenty-nine years ago, Heligan’s historic gardens were hidden under overgrown brambles. It was only the chance discovery of a door in the ruins that led to the restoration of this beautiful estate. They are now some of the finest gardens in the country, and a joy to explore with children. One of the best outdoor things to do in Cornwall with the kids.
Quaint harbour, used for many films including Pirates of the Caribbean and Poldark
228 locals recommend
Charlestown
Quaint harbour, used for many films including Pirates of the Caribbean and Poldark
Wadebridge
Bustling town near the North Coast
National Trust property, childrens park, cycle trails, cafe
119 locals recommend
Lanhydrock House and Garden
Treffry LaneNational Trust property, childrens park, cycle trails, cafe
Cardinham Woods
Cycle trails, walks, cafe, BBQ area
For a truly fascinating day out, visit St Michael’s Mount, a tiny island accessible only at low tide. You’ll find a medieval castle, a working harbour and a thriving village of just 30 inhabitants. The island has consequently inspired numerous storytellers through the ages. With legends of magic, myth, giants and mermaids that are sure to amaze young minds. The mount has also been used as a filming location for numerous productions. Thanks to its wild, remote and breathtaking beauty. Definitely one of the best things to do in Cornwall with kids.
Visitors can wander the century-old corridors of the castle and its colourful gardens, before stopping for some amazing food at The Sail Loft or The Island Café.
690 locals recommend
Saint Michael's Mount
For a truly fascinating day out, visit St Michael’s Mount, a tiny island accessible only at low tide. You’ll find a medieval castle, a working harbour and a thriving village of just 30 inhabitants. The island has consequently inspired numerous storytellers through the ages. With legends of magic, myth, giants and mermaids that are sure to amaze young minds. The mount has also been used as a filming location for numerous productions. Thanks to its wild, remote and breathtaking beauty. Definitely one of the best things to do in Cornwall with kids.
Visitors can wander the century-old corridors of the castle and its colourful gardens, before stopping for some amazing food at The Sail Loft or The Island Café.
On the North Coast, renowned for surfing and has a plethora of eateries on the beach front
225 locals recommend
Fistral Beach
On the North Coast, renowned for surfing and has a plethora of eateries on the beach front
https://www.visitcornwall.com/things-to-do
Website detailing all Cornwall has to offer
Visit Cornwall
30 Boscawen Streethttps://www.visitcornwall.com/things-to-do
Website detailing all Cornwall has to offer
Food scene
Lanivet Inn
Truro RoadOur local pub
Viraj
50 Higher Bore StLocal Indian restaurant, does takeaways
Welcome Stranger
Truro RoadLocal fish & chip shop
Outlaw's Fish Kitchen
1 Middle StNathan Outlaws in Port Issac
Rick Stein
RiversideSeafood restaurant
A Michelin Star restaurant which offers a children’s menu is a rare gem, so this upmarket eatery in Padstow had to make our list. It’s expensive of course, but foodie families won’t begrudge paying premium prices for the fantastic menu, which changes with the seasons. If it’s on the menu, make sure you order the “Fairground Tale” dessert (pictured below) which is sure to delight the kids. Lastly, remember that you’ll need to book ahead, even in low season.
73 locals recommend
Paul Ainsworth at Number 6
6 Middle StA Michelin Star restaurant which offers a children’s menu is a rare gem, so this upmarket eatery in Padstow had to make our list. It’s expensive of course, but foodie families won’t begrudge paying premium prices for the fantastic menu, which changes with the seasons. If it’s on the menu, make sure you order the “Fairground Tale” dessert (pictured below) which is sure to delight the kids. Lastly, remember that you’ll need to book ahead, even in low season.
A chilled out bistro in a former lifeboat station. Sam’s serves excellent seafood and stonebaked pizza overlooking Polkerris harbour. Diners can choose to eat inside, where the restaurant is flooded with light and a fresh sea breeze from the floor to ceiling windows or outside on the relaxed sun terrace.
117 locals recommend
Sams On The Beach, Restaurant
A chilled out bistro in a former lifeboat station. Sam’s serves excellent seafood and stonebaked pizza overlooking Polkerris harbour. Diners can choose to eat inside, where the restaurant is flooded with light and a fresh sea breeze from the floor to ceiling windows or outside on the relaxed sun terrace.
Walk straight off the sand to your table at this relaxed hotel restaurant overlooking famous Watergate Bay. Watch the surfers as you peruse the wide ranging menu, which features Mexican, Asian, Italian and British cuisine. It’s open for breakfast from 9am, so you can fuel up your family before a day at the beach.
46 locals recommend
The Beach Hut
Watergate BayWalk straight off the sand to your table at this relaxed hotel restaurant overlooking famous Watergate Bay. Watch the surfers as you peruse the wide ranging menu, which features Mexican, Asian, Italian and British cuisine. It’s open for breakfast from 9am, so you can fuel up your family before a day at the beach.
Overlooking Falmouth’s famous Gyllyngvase beach and Pendennis castle, this family-run, award winning cafe is surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Lizard peninsula. The delicious, locally sourced food is served in a laid back atmosphere, where kids with sandy feet are made to feel very welcome.
141 locals recommend
Gylly Beach Cafe
Cliff RoadOverlooking Falmouth’s famous Gyllyngvase beach and Pendennis castle, this family-run, award winning cafe is surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Lizard peninsula. The delicious, locally sourced food is served in a laid back atmosphere, where kids with sandy feet are made to feel very welcome.
The celebrated chef now has numerous restaurants and cafes all over the UK, but it is in Padstow where he first made his name. His takeaway fish and chips are superbly tasty, and great value in comparison to his fancier restaurants. There’s a children’s menu featuring dishes like cod goujons and scampi, which are best enjoyed sat on the harbour watching the boats come and go. A great option for a quick and easy family dinner.
64 locals recommend
Rick Stein's Seafood Bar & Fishmongers
Unit 1 Station RdThe celebrated chef now has numerous restaurants and cafes all over the UK, but it is in Padstow where he first made his name. His takeaway fish and chips are superbly tasty, and great value in comparison to his fancier restaurants. There’s a children’s menu featuring dishes like cod goujons and scampi, which are best enjoyed sat on the harbour watching the boats come and go. A great option for a quick and easy family dinner.
Kota Kai is the sister restaurant to award winning Kota Restaurant with Rooms. Kai was created to cater for the more casual diners, families and parties, and it is the perfect venue.
67 locals recommend
Kota Kai Kitchen Bar
The ShipyardKota Kai is the sister restaurant to award winning Kota Restaurant with Rooms. Kai was created to cater for the more casual diners, families and parties, and it is the perfect venue.
In amongst the beach shops of the International Surf Centre you’ll find this small bistro looking out over Fistral Beach’s golden sands towards a sea dotted with surfers. Blackboards announce the daily catch, with much coming from Newquay Harbour. Dishes are appealing and full of flavour.
118 locals recommend
The Fish House Fistral
Headland RoadIn amongst the beach shops of the International Surf Centre you’ll find this small bistro looking out over Fistral Beach’s golden sands towards a sea dotted with surfers. Blackboards announce the daily catch, with much coming from Newquay Harbour. Dishes are appealing and full of flavour.
Golf clubs
Lanhydrock Golf Club
Local golf club
The Carlyon Bay Golf Club
Sea RoadLinks course
St Enodoc Golf Club
North Coast
2 courses including Nicklaus course
24 locals recommend
St. Mellion Estate - Hotel, Golf, Spa, Gym, Weddings, Meetings and Events near Plymouth
2 courses including Nicklaus course
Activities
If you would like to be introduced to different watersports in Cornwall, you can’t go wrong by checking out Retallack. You will find a surf simulator, you can hire a paddle and use in the lake or have fun in the aqua park. Check website for minimum age and conditions. This is fun packed activity especially on sunny days in Cornwall.
21 locals recommend
Retallack Water Sports
If you would like to be introduced to different watersports in Cornwall, you can’t go wrong by checking out Retallack. You will find a surf simulator, you can hire a paddle and use in the lake or have fun in the aqua park. Check website for minimum age and conditions. This is fun packed activity especially on sunny days in Cornwall.
Adrenalin Quarry
Lower Clicker RoadZip wire, water park, karting
This popular aquarium is good for young children as its small size means they won’t get too tired – you can walk around it in less than an hour. It packs a lot in though, from exotic fish to sharks and turtles. Kids will also love walking through the Underwater Tunnel, and watching the animal feeding times too.
96 locals recommend
Blue Reef Aquarium
Towan PromenadeThis popular aquarium is good for young children as its small size means they won’t get too tired – you can walk around it in less than an hour. It packs a lot in though, from exotic fish to sharks and turtles. Kids will also love walking through the Underwater Tunnel, and watching the animal feeding times too.
This immersive, pirate-themed experience features actors, special effects and elaborate sets which will amaze your little ones. This new adventure golf open in 2021 is suitable for children ages 3 and above. Are you ready to escape a shipwreck, exploring mystical caves, and soaking up a bucket load of history and legends along the way while trying to have the best score in golf?
12 locals recommend
Pirate's Quest Newquay
22 St Michael's RdThis immersive, pirate-themed experience features actors, special effects and elaborate sets which will amaze your little ones. This new adventure golf open in 2021 is suitable for children ages 3 and above. Are you ready to escape a shipwreck, exploring mystical caves, and soaking up a bucket load of history and legends along the way while trying to have the best score in golf?
enowned for being a museum that says ‘Climb Aboard’ rather than ‘Don’t touch!’ the National Maritime Museum has a whole host of interactive exhibits and events to entertain curious young minds, from story-telling to dress up and much more.
Highlights include a 100 foot Lookout Tower offering panoramic views over Falmouth harbour and a Treasure Island Play Zone.
114 locals recommend
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
Discovery Quayenowned for being a museum that says ‘Climb Aboard’ rather than ‘Don’t touch!’ the National Maritime Museum has a whole host of interactive exhibits and events to entertain curious young minds, from story-telling to dress up and much more.
Highlights include a 100 foot Lookout Tower offering panoramic views over Falmouth harbour and a Treasure Island Play Zone.
If you are a big fan of discovery parks, Hidden Valley is the place to go to in Cornwall. You will enjoy several gardens with lovely walks for you and your little ones. Different trails are available such as Sherlock Trail or Indiana Trail. And there is a little train that travels all around the grounds too. Last but not least, you will visit the Forbidden Mansion, a house full of mysteries and strange things.
28 locals recommend
Hidden Valley
If you are a big fan of discovery parks, Hidden Valley is the place to go to in Cornwall. You will enjoy several gardens with lovely walks for you and your little ones. Different trails are available such as Sherlock Trail or Indiana Trail. And there is a little train that travels all around the grounds too. Last but not least, you will visit the Forbidden Mansion, a house full of mysteries and strange things.
Paradise Park in Hayle is a fantastic animal sanctuary, with a fun indoor play centre for those rainy days. If the weather is too wet to admire the 650 animals and birds, head to the Jungle Barn where you’ll find indoor slides, ball pits and climbing frames galore.
If the weather is dry, the Jungle Express Train operates throughout the summer months and on good weather winter days.
134 locals recommend
Paradise Park
16 Trelissick RdParadise Park in Hayle is a fantastic animal sanctuary, with a fun indoor play centre for those rainy days. If the weather is too wet to admire the 650 animals and birds, head to the Jungle Barn where you’ll find indoor slides, ball pits and climbing frames galore.
If the weather is dry, the Jungle Express Train operates throughout the summer months and on good weather winter days.
This theme park offers entertainment for all weathers, with lots of rides and attractions to keep all ages entertained. Brave the log flume as a family, or watch your kids zoom down the mega slides. There are several rides especially for toddlers, and if they’re under 92cm they get free entry too. A fun activity among our best things to do in Cornwall with kids.
93 locals recommend
Camel Creek Adventure Park
This theme park offers entertainment for all weathers, with lots of rides and attractions to keep all ages entertained. Brave the log flume as a family, or watch your kids zoom down the mega slides. There are several rides especially for toddlers, and if they’re under 92cm they get free entry too. A fun activity among our best things to do in Cornwall with kids.
A lovely day out for any budding conservationists and animal lovers. See adorable seal pups up close, as well as cute penguins and otters. The sanctuary does so much great work in the local area too – there are beach cleans which the kids can get involved in, as well as animal care and lots of interesting talks and workshops.
187 locals recommend
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
A lovely day out for any budding conservationists and animal lovers. See adorable seal pups up close, as well as cute penguins and otters. The sanctuary does so much great work in the local area too – there are beach cleans which the kids can get involved in, as well as animal care and lots of interesting talks and workshops.
Have you ever visited a real mine? Well maybe now is the time to book your tickets for a great tour of Geevor Tin Mine and learn about the former life of a Cornish miner. You will be equipped with a hard sanitised hat to explore the site. You will go underground and walk through different tunnels. Geevor Tin Mine is a very unique experience and is highly recommended among our best things to do in Cornwall with your kids.
7 locals recommend
Geevor Tin Mine Museum, Main Road station
Have you ever visited a real mine? Well maybe now is the time to book your tickets for a great tour of Geevor Tin Mine and learn about the former life of a Cornish miner. You will be equipped with a hard sanitised hat to explore the site. You will go underground and walk through different tunnels. Geevor Tin Mine is a very unique experience and is highly recommended among our best things to do in Cornwall with your kids.
Keep your little monkeys entertained at this sanctuary dedicated to all things primate. There are loads of animals for them to spot, as well as children’s workshops, a wild play area, and even the opportunity to be “keeper for the day.”
37 locals recommend
Wild Futures, The Monkey Sanctuary
Keep your little monkeys entertained at this sanctuary dedicated to all things primate. There are loads of animals for them to spot, as well as children’s workshops, a wild play area, and even the opportunity to be “keeper for the day.”
Now owned and managed by the Cornish council, Tehidi Country Park has over 250 acres of woods and peaceful nature that make a perfect spot for a day out with the family in Cornwall. There are 2 car parks where you can access the site: North Cliff and South Drive.
20 locals recommend
Tehidy Woods, north cliff car park
Now owned and managed by the Cornish council, Tehidi Country Park has over 250 acres of woods and peaceful nature that make a perfect spot for a day out with the family in Cornwall. There are 2 car parks where you can access the site: North Cliff and South Drive.
A soft play centre is always a good choice on a rainy day, and this one in the centre of Newquay is sure to be a hit with the kids. The large play-frame offers challenging climbs, a rope bridge, super-fast slide and much more. In addition, there is a separate area for babies and toddlers, as well as free wifi and a well stocked cafe for adults.
7 locals recommend
Jungle Jack's
A soft play centre is always a good choice on a rainy day, and this one in the centre of Newquay is sure to be a hit with the kids. The large play-frame offers challenging climbs, a rope bridge, super-fast slide and much more. In addition, there is a separate area for babies and toddlers, as well as free wifi and a well stocked cafe for adults.
A soft play centre is always a good choice on a rainy day, and this one in the centre of Newquay is sure to be a hit with the kids. The large play-frame offers challenging climbs, a rope bridge, super-fast slide and much more. In addition, there is a separate area for babies and toddlers, as well as free wifi and a well stocked cafe for adults.
25 locals recommend
Screech Owl Sanctuary
A soft play centre is always a good choice on a rainy day, and this one in the centre of Newquay is sure to be a hit with the kids. The large play-frame offers challenging climbs, a rope bridge, super-fast slide and much more. In addition, there is a separate area for babies and toddlers, as well as free wifi and a well stocked cafe for adults.
If you have young children who love trains, why not take them for a day out on the Bodmin and Wenford Steam Railway? The 6.5 miles train ride from Bodmin will be the perfect length of time to keep toddlers entertained, as it chugs through charming Cornish countryside. Why not take a picnic to eat on board? This train journey is one of the most popular things to do in Cornwall with kids, so make sure you book your fares in advance!
39 locals recommend
Bodmin General Station
Harleigh RoadIf you have young children who love trains, why not take them for a day out on the Bodmin and Wenford Steam Railway? The 6.5 miles train ride from Bodmin will be the perfect length of time to keep toddlers entertained, as it chugs through charming Cornish countryside. Why not take a picnic to eat on board? This train journey is one of the most popular things to do in Cornwall with kids, so make sure you book your fares in advance!
Newquay Zoo takes you on a journey around the world: from the amazing savannahs of Africa to the rainforests of South America. A fantastic day out for the whole family. You’ll be helping to protect the animals too, with all profits from ticket sales going directly back into the Zoo’s conservation work.
146 locals recommend
Newquay Zoo
Trenance GardensNewquay Zoo takes you on a journey around the world: from the amazing savannahs of Africa to the rainforests of South America. A fantastic day out for the whole family. You’ll be helping to protect the animals too, with all profits from ticket sales going directly back into the Zoo’s conservation work.
Explore this beautiful Cornish valley garden with little ones, helping them spot exotic flowers and abundant wildlife. The 4 mile footpath through the garden winds its way down to the sea, so you can have a picnic on the beach at lunchtime too. An idillic place among our things to do in Cornwall with the kids.
252 locals recommend
Trebah Garden
Explore this beautiful Cornish valley garden with little ones, helping them spot exotic flowers and abundant wildlife. The 4 mile footpath through the garden winds its way down to the sea, so you can have a picnic on the beach at lunchtime too. An idillic place among our things to do in Cornwall with the kids.
A National Trust protected site, Glendurgan Garden is made up of three valleys which join into one and lead down to the old fishing village of Durgan. A charming place to walk your dog (or your children!) on a sunny day.
160 locals recommend
Glendurgan Garden
A National Trust protected site, Glendurgan Garden is made up of three valleys which join into one and lead down to the old fishing village of Durgan. A charming place to walk your dog (or your children!) on a sunny day.
Set on a headland with breathtaking views out to sea, Pendennis Castle is one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal fortresses. Explore the vital role the castle played in defending the Cornish coast, through its fascinating exhibitions and knowledgeable guides. The kids will love the daily cannon firing each day at noon, and there are lots of fun activities for them during the school holidays.
203 locals recommend
Pendennis Castle
Castle DriveSet on a headland with breathtaking views out to sea, Pendennis Castle is one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal fortresses. Explore the vital role the castle played in defending the Cornish coast, through its fascinating exhibitions and knowledgeable guides. The kids will love the daily cannon firing each day at noon, and there are lots of fun activities for them during the school holidays.
An 18 mile trail running from Wenfordbridge to Padstow. Cycling The Camel Trail is certainly a much-loved annual tradition for many families holidaying in Cornwall.
It is suitable for all abilities so you can make the route as long or short as you like. In addition, there are bicycle hire shops in each of the four main towns along the route. You can hire a wide range of bikes, including “tagalong” bikes for young children who can’t ride far. The route along a disused railway line, has stunning views of the Camel Estuary and Cornish countryside. Moreover, there are several tea shops along the way to refuel with scones!
68 locals recommend
Camel Trail Cycle Hire
Eddystone RoadAn 18 mile trail running from Wenfordbridge to Padstow. Cycling The Camel Trail is certainly a much-loved annual tradition for many families holidaying in Cornwall.
It is suitable for all abilities so you can make the route as long or short as you like. In addition, there are bicycle hire shops in each of the four main towns along the route. You can hire a wide range of bikes, including “tagalong” bikes for young children who can’t ride far. The route along a disused railway line, has stunning views of the Camel Estuary and Cornish countryside. Moreover, there are several tea shops along the way to refuel with scones!
The Westernmost point in Cornwall is a major tourist attraction and a great day out for families. Above all, designated pathways along the magnificent granite clifftops will lead you to breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic. Also the famous Longships Lighthouse and the Isles of Scilly ,which are visible on clear days. See if you can spot some of the abundant wildlife, for instance seabirds, dolphins and seals. Don’t forget to have your picture taken by the famous Land’s End sign.
You may also wish to visit one of the four family-focused attractions such as “The Grand Experience”. This an interactive activity from the animators of Wallace and Gromit.
249 locals recommend
Land's End Landmark Attraction
Land's EndThe Westernmost point in Cornwall is a major tourist attraction and a great day out for families. Above all, designated pathways along the magnificent granite clifftops will lead you to breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic. Also the famous Longships Lighthouse and the Isles of Scilly ,which are visible on clear days. See if you can spot some of the abundant wildlife, for instance seabirds, dolphins and seals. Don’t forget to have your picture taken by the famous Land’s End sign.
You may also wish to visit one of the four family-focused attractions such as “The Grand Experience”. This an interactive activity from the animators of Wallace and Gromit.
An open-air theatre carved into the granite cliffs near Porthcurno. This is a certainly a “must see” on your visit to South Cornwall.
Constructed in the 1930s, The Minack Theatre is world famous and an incredible place to watch a live performance. Perched on a rocky outcrop above the crashing waves. In high season (April – September), there are family friendly morning shows three times a week. These are very popular and tend to sell out quickly, therefore advance booking is highly recommended.
180 locals recommend
The Minack Theatre
An open-air theatre carved into the granite cliffs near Porthcurno. This is a certainly a “must see” on your visit to South Cornwall.
Constructed in the 1930s, The Minack Theatre is world famous and an incredible place to watch a live performance. Perched on a rocky outcrop above the crashing waves. In high season (April – September), there are family friendly morning shows three times a week. These are very popular and tend to sell out quickly, therefore advance booking is highly recommended.