Things to do in Cornwall

Discover the natural world as you've never experienced it before as you explore the Eden Project. Opening in 2001, this former clay mine has been transformed into a beautiful global garden to demonstrate and inspire positive action for the planet. Explore the massive, covered biomes and experience the humid tropics of the rainforest as well as the temperate climate and calm atmosphere of the Mediterranean. Make your way around the extensive outdoor gardens and admire contemporary artwork and interactive exhibits. Check out the changing program of free events and exhibitions included, from family-friendly activities during the school holidays to breathtaking music and light shows at Christmas. Visit the Eden Project website to find out what’s on when you are planning to visit.

Step into the past with skip-the-line entry to the Bodmin Jail in Cornwall where over 55 executions took place. Uncover the dark history of this haunted site built by King George III and explore the recently renovated wings and cells. Feel the cold against your skin as you walk down the Naval Wing. Travel just outside the town center to find Bodmin Jail and marvel at its imposing structure on the skyline as you reach the entrance. Count yourself lucky as you walk into the prison as a visitor and not as an inmate. Face a cold walk along the original Naval Wing and get a first-hand impression of what the dreary days and nights behind bars were really like. Look into grimy cells and listen to stories of prison punishments. Learn about the tragedies within these walls and the tales of the criminals who called Bodmin Jail home. Exit the prison after seeing the only original and fully working Victorian hanging pit in the United Kingdom.

If you’re a fan of the TV show Doc Martin, this fully guided walking tour will take you around the fictional Cornish seaside village of Portwenn. In reality, it is filmed on location in Port Isaac, a small and picturesque fishing village on the Atlantic coast of north Cornwall. Now in its seventh series and popular with fans around the world, this Doc Martin tour is the best way to see the main locations from the show which first aired in 2004. The walking tour is led by a local who has been involved in the filming of Doc Martin itself as an extra and shares many anecdotes about the filming of this show.  Locations from the show that you will see include the Doc’s house and surgery, Louisa’s school, Mrs Tishell’s pharmacy and much more. However, the village itself has a long and fascinating history dating back to King Henry VIII and your guide will show you hidden village paths, historical buildings, beautiful views and give you an insight into local life. There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way. 

Climb aboard a RIB vessel and travel out of the Camel Estuary toward the Atlantic Ocean. Cover approximately 25 miles of beautiful coastline in search of an array of marine life that inhabits the area. Slow down in designated regions where you are likely to spot wildlife. Seize the possibility to spot seals, dolphins, porpoises, whales, and even sunfish. Stay on the lookout for a myriad of seabirds including gannets, shearwaters, fulmars, oystercatchers, shags, cormorants, and more. From April to July, find the cliffs teeming with nesting guillemots and razorbills, and visit “Puffin Island”, one of the last places puffins can be found nesting in Cornwall, with hopes of spotting these beautiful birds. Learn about the wildlife you see, as well as local points of interest and the rich local heritage. Depending on weather and sea conditions, visit Port Isaac, home of ‘Doc Martin’, or Trevose Head, where you can get a unique view of the ‘new’ Padstow Lifeboat Station.

Experience a 1-hour naval and harbour cruise that departs daily from The Barbican Landing Stage, off Mayflower Steps, Plymouth. Relax as you discover the majestic scenery of the Decon and Cornish coast. Start your adventure by departing from the Mayflower Steps. Listen as your skipper provides you with informative commentary as you sail across the Plymouth Sound flanked by the beautiful Devon and Cornish coasts. Pass the Plymouth Hoe, the famous Drakes Island, and head for the river Tamar. Pull into one of the largest Naval Dockyards in Western Europe – where the mighty warships and nuclear submarines await. All boats have toilets on board and a licensed bar, where a full range of hot and cold drinks can be purchased, whilst sitting back and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Returning down the beautiful coastline to return 1-hour later back at the Barbican.

Embark on a boat trip departing from the historic town of Penzance. Make your way towards Lands End, experiencing the magic of the Minack Theatre, Porthcurno Beach, and the charm of idyllic fishing villages – all from the unique vantage point of the sea. Then, sail to the Land's End tip, passing the historic Longship Lighthouse. Venture out to the offshore shelf where the ocean depths meet the coast, offering the perfect opportunity to spot dolphins and other wildlife. Enjoy a sweeping view of the bay, with the chance to encounter the wonders of our local marine life along the way, before your return journey takes you past St Michael’s Mount and back to Penzance.

Immerse yourself in the history and legends of Tintagel Castle, a site synonymous with King Arthur and a gem on Cornwall’s rugged coastline. Begin your adventure by crossing the award-winning footbridge, where the Atlantic Ocean roars below, setting the scene for a day of exploration. Discover the 13th-century castle's rich past, from early medieval ruins to the dramatic cliff-top remains. Meet Gallos, the life-size bronze statue of an ancient king, and delve into Merlin’s Cave at low tide. Go beyond history and connect with nature. Head down to sea level to stroll along the sandy beach and venture into Merlin's Cave. Paddle in the rock pools, watch for wildlife and soak in the panoramic views from the clifftops. Conclude your visit with a stroll back across the bridge, following in the footsteps of Tintagel’s medieval inhabitants.

Experience unforgettable wildlife off the coast of Cornwall on this guided trip by boat. Learn about Cornish history and nature as you sail up its breathtaking rugged coastline. Meet your guide and climb onboard your Rigid Inflatable Boat for a trip to remember. Follow along the coast at speed, and slow on approach to areas of the coastline where grey seals regularly visit. If the conditions are right, head out to one of the nearby offshore islands where seals often haul out on the rocks to sunbathe. Marvel at seals bobbing around in the water, popping up to say hello, or basking on the rocks of offshore islands. Look out for an array of birds that can also be seen on the trip, especially during nesting season for the puffins, guillemots and razorbills (mid April-mid July). Keep an eye out for dolphins which have also sometimes been spotted in the area.

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with England's fastest zipline at Hangloose Adventure Eden. This exhilarating adventure takes you soaring over the iconic Eden Project, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph. As you glide through the air, you'll be treated to unparalleled views of the stunning Eden biomes and the lush Cornish landscape. Your adventure begins with a comprehensive safety briefing to ensure you're fully prepared for the thrill ahead. Once briefed, you'll be transported in a minivan to the launch tower, situated high above the Eden Project. The anticipation builds as you ascend, knowing that an unforgettable ride awaits. The zipline features two parallel high wires, allowing you to share this incredible experience with a friend or enjoy a solo flight. As you launch from the tower, the rush of wind and the breathtaking scenery create a unique and unforgettable sensation. The views of the Eden Project's biomes, nestled within the picturesque surroundings, are simply spectacular. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure to share with friends or a solo journey to test your limits, the Hangloose Adventure zipline at Eden Project offers an unmatched combination of speed, excitement, and natural beauty. This is an experience that promises to leave you with lasting memories and a sense of accomplishment.

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Tate St Ives showcases work by artists including Barbara Hepworth, Marlow Moss, Naum Gabo and Patrick Heron, whose captivating works have brought international attention to St Ives and West Cornwall. Alongside displays from the Tate collection, the gallery presents modern and contemporary art from around the world through a dynamic exhibitions programme. From 1 February to 5 May 2025 we will be presenting the first major exhibition of visionary artist Ithell Colquhoun. One of the most radical artists of her generation, Ithell Colquhoun was an important figure in British Surrealism during the 1930s and 1940s.