If you’re looking for the best places in Cornwall for families, you’re about to make a very good choice. Whether you’re an international holidaymaker looking for a fabulous UK destination, or a British staycationer scoping out the best family staycation UK style, you’re about to find yourself in very good company.

In a 2023 survey of 2,000 parents and their holiday preferences, Cornwall was unsurprisingly named the number 1 UK family staycation destination.

This exciting county is full of fun activities, surrounded by idyllic beaches, and steeped in culture and history. If you’re planning to visit soon, here are a few places we think you and your family will love.

Lappa Valley Steam Railway

The Lappa Valley Steam Railway is a fun holiday attraction that will take you and your family on a unique train adventure that evokes memories of the Steam Age. This exciting journey on board a miniature steam train will transport visitors through breathtaking valley landscapes, providing fun, adventure and endless scenic interest.

Although perhaps best known for this fun family train adventure, the Lappa Valley experience also includes a boating lake, a golf course, and a range of outdoor quests.

A musical trail, woodland walks and 35 acres of rolling countryside, parks and gardens make this an unmissable day out for all the family.

Tintagel Castle

Ignite the imagination of family members of all ages at this painstakingly constructed mythical site, linked to the legend of King Arthur.

Tintagel Castle offers an unusual family day out that will inspire creativity and awaken a curiosity for history, folklore and ancient tales of magic.

Dramatic cliffs, medieval ruins, and interactive exhibits will transport the entire family into a mythical past filled with mystery, honour and knights of old.

National Maritime Museum

Falmouth’s National Maritime Museum offers a fun and educational day out that includes a generous helping of Cornwall’s maritime history. This well-resourced interactive museum features an exciting and intriguing range of exhibits, activities, boat displays, and family-friendly sea and sailing-themed workshops.

A fun place to find your sea legs and dream of a life on the ocean wave.

Pendennis Castle

Explore centuries of history at Pendennis Castle, where interactive displays and panoramic views provide an educational and entertaining family day out.

If you or other family members are Tudor history enthusiasts, this ancient site is a must-see at some point during your UK family staycation in Cornwall.

Pendennis Castle was famously a coastal fort that belonged to Henry VIII.

As well as a range of family picnic spots, you’ll also find a fun family trail, exhibitions, and a soft playroom. There’s plenty for visitors of all ages to enjoy and ample opportunities for the little ones to burn off excess energy in a vast array of green and pleasant open spaces.

It’s these family-centred details that help to place this evocative holiday favourite securely among the best places in Cornwall for families.

Minack Theatre

The breathtaking Minack Theatre, is a stunning cultural venue perched on Cornwall’s picturesque cliff tops and overlooking its stunning coastlines and landscapes.

The theatre undoubtedly offers a unique family day out, with open-air performances set against the scenic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

As well as a range of arts projects and activities, the Minack offers children a chance to experience the magic of live theatre in a stunning natural setting.

This captivating location, combined with interactive exhibits, guided tours, storytelling, subtropical gardens, accessibility initiatives and opportunities to explore the coastal surroundings, creates an enriching and memorable experience for the entire family.

East Looe Beach

This popular family-friendly beach offers stunning views of this captivating coastal region. With its golden sands, crystal clear waters, cosy seaside cafes and play areas, Looe is the perfect place for a tranquil family supper after a long day of sightseeing activities.

Looe is a traditional fishing town, and the beach provides ample opportunities for fishing, crabbing, and exploring the maritime heritage of the area. Water activity enthusiasts can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, family swims, and paddleboarding.

Adult family members might enjoy a visit during the annual Looe Music Festival, which attracts both locals and international visitors, with live music across several genres and performances on the beach and in town.

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Discover for yourself why so many holidaymakers are searching for information on family holidays in Cornwall. Join us for a truly memorable family staycation UK style.

Book a last-minute offer at our award-winning luxury Tregoad Holiday Park in Looe, where you’ll find everything you need for the perfect UK family staycation adventure, less than 10 minutes from East Looe Beach.