When it comes to fun days out, beach-front escapades, cream teas and thrilling water activities, Cornwall is probably one of the first holiday destinations that comes to mind. But this historic county also offers a huge range of educational and cultural experiences to keep kids of all ages fully engaged and occupied. If you’re curious to discover the best museums in Cornwall, here are just 7 exciting, family-friendly exhibitions you won’t want to miss.

The Shipwreck Treasure Museum

This fun family museum in Charlestown houses one of Europe’s largest collections of shipwreck artefacts. For fans of all things maritime, this is the perfect place to indulge the imagination with a few wayfaring daydreams.

The museum is home to over 8,000 finds from 150 shipwrecks, each illustrating a captivating tale of maritime adventures and tragedies.

As well as the vast range of exhibits and maritime moments, the museum offers treasure hunts and seasonal adventures for nautical fans of all ages.

Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Wheal Martyn in St Austell is the UK’s only china clay mining museum. The museum hosts interactive displays and scenic trails, and the site itself is home to an impressive working waterwheel.

This thriving family museum reveals the colourful history of the region’s china clay industry and offers a glimpse into clay mining methods.

With music nights, pottery workshops, exhibitions, films, field trips and a wide range of arts and crafts activities, this is an unmissable stop for all pottery and art-loving family members.

Stuart House

Stuart House is a painstakingly preserved Tudor townhouse in the heart of the authentic Cornish market town of Liskeard — the town itself is well worth a visit for its many beautifully restored medieval buildings and architectural features.

Stuart House offers a fascinating glimpse of Cornish history. Built in the 16th century, it showcases a range of period features including original fireplaces and woodwork.

This busy cultural centre hosts a number of art exhibitions, workshops, and community events. Guests can also enjoy its beautiful gardens, which provide a peaceful retreat for active holidaymakers.

Fowey Museum

The Fowey Museum gives visitors a rare glimpse into the local and social history of Fowey. Here, guests can see examples of regalia, costumes, weaponry and other relics belonging to the unique history and traditions of Cornish life.

Fowey’s famous seafaring heritage is also celebrated through a collection of models, maritime photographs and ship sails. The museum displays artefacts related to the town’s maritime history and features several noteworthy tributes to Daphne du Maurier, who often stayed in Cornwall and wrote her first novel, The Loving Spirit, while staying in Bodinnick-by-Fowey.

Cotehele House

This National Trust property near Saltash includes a Tudor house and gardens, historic rooms filled with tapestries, arms, armour, and a working watermill.

Not only is Cotehele a great destination for history enthusiasts, you’ll also find the house located on a stunning site with striking views. There’s also a range of activities for children of all ages, including talks, nature walks and everything from willow weaving to calligraphy classes.

A fun and educational day out for all the family.

Polperro Harbour Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing

Just a short drive from the bustling coastal town of Looe, this museum explores Polperro’s rich smuggling history and fishing traditions. Its engaging exhibits and artefacts vividly depict the village’s rich maritime history.

With photographic records dating as far back as the 1800s, this small harbour museum is steeped in local history and intrigue.

Bodmin Jail

Explore the grisly and fascinating history of Bodmin Jail, with exhibits that delve into its eerie past as a notorious prison. Family members with a fondness for the macabre will enjoy learning about its dark history of crime and punishment.

The museum also offers scare attractions, twilight tours, Cinema Fright Nights and other paranormal attractions.

Visit at your peril..

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Cornwall?!

You’ll love our award-winning Tregoad Holiday Park, conveniently situated just 17 minutes from Polperro Harbour Heritage Museum and within easy driving distance of several exciting family museums.

Book a last-minute offer and get ready for the family adventure of a lifetime!