Days Out & Activities
It’s been said that Cornwall is the playground of the UK for both kids and adults alike, a statement that’s reflected in the huge range of attractions to be found here.
Whether you and your family are looking for a day that’s educational, inspiring or simply fun-filled, look no further than our recommendations below, all within easy reach of Pendra Loweth.
National Maritime Museum
This modern museum sits right on the water’s edge in the heart of Falmouth’s stylish Discovery Quay. Its lively, interactive displays tell of the evolution of seafaring and the maritime history of Cornwall.
View Falmouth harbour from both above the water at the top of the Look Out tower and below the surface in the underwater Tidal Zone.
National Seal Sanctuary
Located just a few miles from Pendra Loweth in the pretty village of Gweek is this working wildlife rescue centre. Watch the seals at play, at feeding time and learn how the dedicated team nurse the seals back to health and back to the sea.
A must for animal lovers, the centre also cares for otters, goats, sheep and ponies.
Swanpool beach
This small sheltered cove is just a short walk or drive from Pendra Loweth. Its shallow bay and sand make it a great beach for families with young children.
Swanpool is surrounded by many convenient facilities including a café and restaurant, beach shop and changing rooms. There is also a mini-golf course nearby suitable for children and adults.
Please note that dogs are not allowed on Swanpool beach between Easter day and 1 October.
Link to website
Eden Project
Take a trip through three of the world's climate zones; humid tropics, warm temperate regions and our own ever-changing climate.
The incredible biomes give an insight into some of our planet’s most amazing plants and agricultural industries from around the world.
Drop in to the visitors centre for a wealth of information about conservation, human impact on plant life and the extraordinary engineering behind the construction of the biomes themselves.
Link to website
Gyllyngvase beach
Located close to the centre of Falmouth, Gyllyngvase or ‘Gylly’ beach is a large sandy stretch popular with locals and tourists alike.
There are gardens and tennis courts next to the beach as well as the stylish Gylly Beach Café, which serves food and drinks all day on its comfortable decked veranda overlooking the bay.
Please note that dogs are not allowed on Gyllyngvase beach between Easter day and 1 October.
Link to website
Maenporth beach
Maenporth is a quiet, pretty inlet that can be reached with a short walk from Pendra Loweth. There is also a small car park.
The beach café serves a range of meals and snacks and there are several watersports available on the beach, including diving and sea kayaking.
Please note that dogs are not allowed on Maenporth beach between Easter day and 1 October.
Link to website
Ships and Castles Leisure Pool
Great fun whatever the weather, Ships and Castles boasts a wave machine, river rapids and the longest flume slide in the region.
Younger children can play safely in the shallow waters of the beach pool and there are relaxing jacuzzis for those wanting to take it easy.
Check the website for details of fun sessions and flat water public sessions for a more traditional swim.
Link to website
Aberfal Outdoor Pursuits
Found in Mawnan Smith, Aberfal Outdoor Pursuits offer a range of exciting and fun filled activities to choose from, including kayaking tours on the beautiful Helford River, archery lessons at the magical bamboo gardens of Carwinion garden and adrenalin-fuelled coasteering sessions at Meanporth beach.
Aberfal Outdoor Pursuits gives you the opportunity to take part in an outdoor experience in some of the most spectacular scenery in Cornwall.
Link to website
Newquay Zoo
Experience the wildlife with Cornwall’s award winning Newquay Zoo. Marvel at the huge range of wildlife on display within tropical lakeside gardens.
Home to over 130 species, the zoo runs regular talks, presentations and feeding times so there is plenty to learn about the animals and to entertain the whole family.There is also a year round events programme, and the site is mainly flat and wheelchair friendly.
Link to website
Cornwall Karting
A thrilling day out for all ages, the track at St. Eval near Newquay offers fun-filled go-karting for adults, teens and children from three years old.
The four racing circuits vary in length and complexity, one even has a flyover. There are a range of karts available to suit any level of ability, including junior karts with remote safety controls to keep the fun safe.
Link to website
Lappa Valley Steam Railway
Take a trip on a real steam engine though the peaceful Lappa Valley. Plenty of activities and attractions await at the other end of your journey, including a nine hole golf course, the brick and turf maze, nature trails and a genuine gypsy caravan.
As a protected conservation area, the valley is also home to a wide variety of wildlife. Pack a picnic or treat the family to lunch in the Old Forge coffee shop.
Link to website
Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
Get up close and personal with some of the inhabitants of our Cornish waters, as well as those from more exotic climes. An underwater tunnel gives an amazing view of sharks, giant wrasse and hundreds of colourful fish.
The feeding displays and talks throughout the day provide a fascinating insight into the aquarium’s marine life.
Link to website
Hidden Valley Discovery Park
A family park with a difference, Hidden Valley offers a set of exciting treasure hunts known as the Crystal Challenges. The whole family can work together to follow the clues that lead to each crystal before embarking on the final test in the Vault.
There is also a farm and petting zoo, a miniature railway and over 100 acres of beautiful park and woodland.
Link to website
Paradise Park
This wildlife park is home to a fascinating collection of rare and tropical birds and plants, as well as otters, red squirrels and red pandas.
There is a petting farm for young children and an indoor play zone with slides, ball ponds and soft adventure trails in case the weather turns.
Make a day of it with lunch in the Otter Pool café or nearby Bird in Hand pub.
Link to website
