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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

South Cornwall scenery

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

Boscastle Harbour Entrance, Boscastle

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

St Ives panorama

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

Bodmin Moor from Kit Hill

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 AlioliCC BY 2.0; Robert LinsdellCC BY 2.0; Robert PittmanCC BY-ND 2.0; NilfanionCC BY-SA 3.0

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