Just because it’s winter, does not mean the county of Cornwall goes into hibernation. In fact, winter is one of the best times to visit thanks to smaller queues, reduced admission prices and a more peaceful atmosphere for you and your family to roam without the hustle and bustle of the summer. These conditions also make it a fantastic time to bring your pooch on holiday with you so the whole family can be together. Be sure to check out our dog friendly holidays in Cornwall this year to make some memories you won’t forget.
Here are seven Cornish attractions that leave the doors wide open seven days a week. Check out these fantastic family days out that can be visited throughout the winter months…
National Maritime Museum, Falmouth
A fantastic, hands-on educational experience that is fun for all the family! Explore fifteen galleries spread over five floors discovering the past, present and future of our fantastic little island. You can even take a journey through time to the Viking world and find out what made them one of the most iconic cultures of all time, as well as the secrets behind their success.
Eden Project, nr St Austell
Feeling a bit down from the cold? Check out the tropical biomes at the Eden Project, full of fascinating plants and crops from tropical environments, each with their own story for you to get lost in. The Eden Project also has some fantastic thrill-seeking opportunities, with a zip-wire, gigantic swing and leap of faith also featuring in the activities available for visitors. Throughout the winter, an ice-rink is also present and available to book in addition to your general admission tickets.
Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
If the Atlantic Ocean is a little too brisk for you and your family this time of year, appreciate the sea from the comfort of inside this fantastic aquarium. You will make your way through over 40 naturally themed habitats, from exotic bays to the Cornish seas. The heart of the aquarium features an ocean tank, where you can observe loggerhead turtles, reef sharks and shoals of colourful fish from above the tank and below, in their iconic clear tunnel. The site is located on the fantastic Towan beach, perfect for a few post-aquarium selfies!
Seal Sanctuary, Gweek
In keeping with the aquatic theme, winter is pup rescue season for the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, making it a great time to visit the rehabilitation centre at its busiest. You will be able to fully gauge the scale of work they do to save the seals, but do be prepared to fall in love them yourself! Occasionally the seal sanctuary’s facilities and expertise are called upon to save other aquatic animals, so who knows what you might see there!
Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan
Don’t forget to bring your wellies on holiday, for 200 acres of garden is yours to explore! Step back in time and lose yourself in Europe’s largest garden restoration, which is rich in history, mystery and romance. A visit in the tranquillity of winter will inevitably let you forget the stresses of reality and simply relax in the peaceful, traditional garden that is bursting with nature.
Paradise Park and Jungle Barn, Hayle
This wildlife sanctuary is home to over 140 species, as well as more than 650 birds. Daily events include otter and penguin feeding times and whatever the weather, fun is guaranteed in the huge indoor play area! On Tuesday’s, Thursday’s and Sunday’s you can even indulge yourself in a traditional roast dinner from the Otter café, the perfect winter warmer for a cold Cornish day!
Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, nr Truro
No one does cider quite like the Cornish, and home-made brews can make the perfect winter tipple to warm you up from the inside out! Come and see it being made at a real brewery, as well as saying ‘hello’ to the numerous friendly farmyard animals wandering around the place!
So, in many ways, Cornwall comes to life in the winter, and attractions and activities can be enjoyed at your own pace, without the hectic summer crowds. Book your winter break today, and check out any of these fantastic attractions and find some hidden gems of your own!