Family friendly activities in Cornwall this summer
Cornwall is a paradise for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Here at Ekopod we hope to help create a magical holiday by providing a unique base for your kid’s summer adventure. We’re surrounded by so many exciting things for them to do but here are our top ten family friendly activities in Cornwall this Summer to make your holiday extra special.
1.The Beach
Come rain or shine the beaches of Cornwall are gorgeous and provide free entertainment for the kids. Go rock pooling at Crooklets, swim at the sea pool in Summerleaze and enjoy two miles of sand at Widemouth. All these beaches are life guarded during the summer, have facilities, cafes and easy access from the carpark to the beach. Dogs are allowed on all the beaches before 10am and after 6pm. Outside of those hours the black rock side of Widemouth is dog friendly and dogs can go on Summerleaze if they are on a lead. All these beaches are 20-25 minutes from Ekopod and close to Bude town Centre.
For dinner after our favourites are the Beach House Widemouth for its amazing beach side location, the kids can play in the sand while you finish your meal at the outside tables and The Bank Bude -check out their fun private dining pods. The Bay View Inn has also just reopened under new owner for this summer and has an outdoor play area. I haven’t checked it out yet but reviews so far are good!
2. Explore the Eden Project
The Eden Project is one of the most famous of our local attractions. Kids will love the enormous biomes housing exotic plants (especially if you’re staying in one of our own geodomes!). This summer the Eden Project has an exciting extra range of indoor and outdoor activities to help keep the kids entertained. These include a wild family trail, mud kitchen play area, shadow puppets, craft activities and an under 5s nature play zone. The Eden Project will also be hosting the wildlife photographer of the year exhibition and has an exciting zip line (the fastest in England!).
3. Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave
Transport your family to the legends of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle and allow their imaginations to run wild while exploring the ruins and the dramatic sea views. Don’t miss the mystical Merlin’s Cave on the beach below, where legend has it the wizard lived. Remember to book in advance at peak times and to time your trip with low tide if you want to access the caves and the beach. Tintagel is an English Heritage site. If you are planning on visiting more than one English Heritage sites in Cornwall it’s worth looking into becoming a Cornwall heritage trust member (£30 a year) as you get 75% off English Heritage sites in Cornwall Cornwall Heritage Trust ~ Preserving Cornwall’s Story. Dogs are allowed at Tintagel Castle.
4. Surf Lessons
Cornwall is famous for its surf, and the North Coast is where to do it! Book a family surf lesson and enjoy the waves together. Many surf schools cater to kids and provide all the necessary equipment, making it a fun and safe experience. In Bude there is the Big Blue Surf School and at Widemouth Bay Freewave surf academy and Reubyn Ash surf instruction. The youngest ages are 5 years old in private 1:1 lessons and 8 years old in public lessons.
5. Fifth on the list of family friendly activities in Cornwall this summer is Hidden Valley
Our family loves the Hidden Valley! A bit off the main tourist radar, it is set in lovingly maintained gardens outside of Launceston. The puzzle park will keep the whole family entertained for the day. With different physical and mental puzzle challenges to suit all ages. For the younger ones there is also a brilliant outdoor play park, a mini train line to ride and a fairy town to explore. Dogs welcome but they can’t go on the train or in the forbidden mansion. There is a small café on site or bring your own picnic.
6. Bude Canoe Experience
The joy of visiting Cornwall is getting out on the water and into nature. Bude Canoe Experience encompasses both of these, providing a new perspective on the countryside. All the tours are private, just you and your guide and dogs are welcome. Minimum age 5 years.
7. Adrenalin Quarry
45 minutes from Ekopod is Adrenalin Quarry hosting a huge Aquapark (6 years plus) with trampolines, swings and slides set in their huge lake. Als0 on site you’ll find a Zip line and coasteering. Perfect for those kids who want an adrenaline rush.
Adrenaline for a slightly younger age? The monster slip and side pop up is now open again for the summer 20 minutes away. Launch yourself down the 360ft slide in rings and body boards. For 2 years plus (under fours are free). Great fun for adults too!
8. Boat Tours
Get a different view of North Cornwall’s stunning coastline by going on a boat tour. There are boat tours available for all ages and over the summer you can see seals and dolphins in our waters. Wave Hunters near us have trips from Padstow and Port Isaac. These can be combined with exploring these two traditional Cornish fishing villages. No age restrictions.
Boat Tours & Trips in Cornwall | Wavehunters UK
9. Trethorne Leisure park
Rainy Day? Ten minutes down the road from Ekopod is a huge play barn with entertainment suitable for toddlers through to young teenagers. Younger ones will love the massive soft play, climbing frames, bouncy castle, small petting zoo and trampolines. Older ones will love the drop slide, bungee runs and zorb football. Mini golf, dodgems and ten pin bowling also onsite along with café and bar.
If you are looking for more a theme park experience for younger children you could visit The Big Sheep (1 hour), The Milky Way (50 mins) and Camel Creek (45 mins). Camel Creek has ‘family fest’ nights on Wednesday evenings over the Summer.
10. Theatre
Arts and culture more of your family’s thing? Live theatre is performed in unique indoor and outdoor venues throughout the summer around Bude. Check out for North Coast Arts – 2023 Programme – North Coast Arts to book performances of The Wind in the Willows, Dr Dolittle and The Secret Garden.
I hope you enjoyed my round up of our top ten family friendly activities in Cornwall this Summer. After a day of exploring Cornwall’s treasures, return to the comfort of our luxury glamping site. Our spacious tents and lodges provide all the comforts of home, in a beautifully wild environment, with the added thrill of sleeping under the stars. With prices starting from just £106 a night for a family of four (based on a 7 night stay in Tylda).
Book your stay with us this summer and create lasting memories with your family in beautiful Cornwall. Whether it is adventure or relaxation you are seeking, or a bit of both, Cornwall has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on these top ten activities that are sure to make your family vacation truly special.
