Cornwall’s mixture of stunning coastline and charming communities make it the perfect location for an adults-only holiday.
Whether you’re travelling in a group or enjoying a romantic getaway as a couple, find a whole host of activities and attractions at your doorstep, ideal for adults. Museums and galleries, sailing and boat trips, cliff-top walks and tourist attractions like the Eden Project are just some of the many fascinating ways you can enjoy spending your time away in Cornwall.
See 16 of our favourite things to do in Cornwall for adults…
South Cornwall
1. The Eden Project, St Austell
Home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, the Eden Project is certainly one of the most popular things to do in Cornwall. It also boasts beautiful garden displays and stunning modern architecture – including the famous biomes
2. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell
One of Cornwall’s best loved attractions, these gardens are as varied as they are beautiful. If you’re feeling particularly young at heart, don’t miss the jungle garden and its rope bridge
3. Trebah Garden, Falmouth
Although open all year, a visit to these dog-friendly gardens in Spring shows them in their best light. Explore the Hydrangea and Rhododendron Valleys, and the Gunnera Passage, before wandering down to the private beach
4. Food and drink in Falmouth
From seafood restaurants to traditional pubs, the town of Falmouth has an eatery to cater for every taste bud, and always has local produce at its heart
North Cornwall
5. Tintagel Castle, Tintagel
The ruins of Tintagel Castle, fabled to be the birthplace of King Arthur, are set on the rugged North Cornwall coast, offering theatrical views out to sea. Dogs on leads are welcome on site, and the café serves fresh local lunches and cream teas
6. Perranporth Beach, Perranporth
Whether you’re looking for surfing and snorkelling in clear waters or cliff-top footpaths looking over the golden sands, you’ll find them here. Dogs are allowed on the beach too, although during July and August they must be kept on a lead between 10am and 5pm
7. Fine dining in Padstow
Home to four of Rick Stein’s restaurants and Paul Ainsworth at No. 6, be spoilt for choice when it comes to seafood and celebrity chefs
8. Carnewas & Bedruthan Steps, Bedruthan
Visit the coastline here for some of the most dramatic views of the north coast and rock stacks stretching out to sea
West Cornwall
9. Minack Theatre, Porthcurno
An open air theatre set on the Porthcurno cliffs offers dramatic views of the surrounding coastline and is open for exploring in the day. Check the theatre’s timetable for evening shows
10. St Michael’s Mount, Marazion
Even if you choose not to tackle the steep rocky climb to enter the castle, the walk across the causeway offers gorgeous views of the historic building and its surroundings
11. The Lizard and Kynance Cove
This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers the many sides of the Cornish countryside in one – cliff tops, sandy beaches, hidden coves and more. Don’t miss the Lizard Lighthouse Heritage Centre
12. Tate, St Ives
Although fairly small, the Tate St Ives features a regular programme of varied exhibitions and events. Its setting on Porthmeor Beach makes it worth a visit for the views alone
13. Godrevy Head, Hayle
Enjoy awe inspiring views across the vast sandy beach from Godrevy’s high cliffs. The surrounding healthland is teaming with wildlife and a favourite with walkers
Bodmin Moor & Tamar Valley
14. Polmartin Riding Equestrian Site, Liskeard
If you’re a seasoned equestrian or a beginner, Polmartin farm is regarded for its friendly horses and teaching staff– a great way to enjoy a ride out in the beautiful Cornish countryside
15. Lanhydrock House and Gardens, Bodmin
This late Victorian country house offers everything you’d expect from a National Trust property: a gorgeous house, colourful gardens and an extensive wooded estate
16. Walking and cycling on Bodmin Moor
From gentle cycles along the Camel Trail to rambling along the 60 mile Copper Trail that takes in Bodmin’s two highest tors, the moor is a walkers paradise
Looking for more inspiration? View a wide range of things to do in Cornwall with our free travel guide!
Image credits: Marco Alioli – CC BY 2.0; Robert Linsdell – CC BY 2.0; Robert Pittman – CC BY-ND 2.0; Nilfanion – CC BY-SA 3.0