Things to do in Cornwall in the rain

Cornwall is an exciting destination all year round, no matter the weather. If the heavens open and the rain sets in, there are plenty of indoor things to do in Cornwall in the rain to keep you all busy.

Discover our suggestions below on what to do in Cornwall in the rain and get set for an amazing holiday. Take a look at our full guide to attractions in Cornwall for even more holiday inspiration. 

And if you're looking for somewhere to stay near these amazing attractions, then browse our great range of cottages.

Newquay Zoo, Newquay

For a really wild adventure come rain or shine, visit Newquay Zoo. 

For a fun-filled day out for all the family, Newquay Zoo is a great place to go in Cornwall in the rain. Why not roar along with the lions, marvel at the meerkats, and giggle at the silly otters? Discover all the amazing animals at this special wildlife park in Cornwall. 

Explore the beautiful gardens here if there is a break in the rain too. The Oriental Garden is home to a variety of Japanese and Asian Plants, including beautiful azaleas and acers, while the Tropical House has a fantastic range of exotic plants, along with a giant fig tree, creepy crawlies and beautiful birds.

Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay

Dive into the deep when it’s wet outside and visit the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay. This aquarium is home to 40 naturally themed habitats that transport you from the Cornish coast to exotic seas. Be amazed by the sea turtles, caiman, pufferfish, giant octopus, reef sharks, and much more!

Stay dry in the underwater tunnel that runs through the ocean tank at the heart of the aquarium. Experience captivating views of the reef and all the beautiful, colourful sea life floating around you.

Eden Project, St Austell

Get out of the wet and explore the fantastic Eden Project, a former clay mine transformed into a beautiful global garden.

Reconnect with nature as you've never experienced before. Under the impressive biomes, you can explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest. With places to rest, play and eat, along with inspirational ideas on how to care for the planet, a trip to the Eden Project is a must on a rainy day.

Carnglaze Cavern, Liskeard

Escape the rain by venturing deep underground on a tour of Carnglaze Cavern, a former slate mine at the edge of Bodmin Moor. 

Learn all about the mines and the miners' day-to-day lives and how the Industrial Revolution saw the slate trade boom. The tour ends at the spectacular subterranean lake with crystal-clear turquoise water. You can also wonder at the amazing collection of minerals mined and quarried in Cornwall.

Paradise Park Wildlife Sanctuary & Jungle Barn Indoor Play Centre, Hayle

This amazing, award-winning wildlife sanctuary is home to some beautiful tropical birds in exotic gardens, plus there is a huge Jungle Barn indoor play area for children. 

Be amazed by the free-flying bird shows and meet the resident wildlife that includes rare and beautiful parrots, playful penguins, fantastic flamingos, brilliant bald eagles, cute red pandas, playful otters, funny farm animals, and so much more at Paradise Park Wildlife Sanctuary.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth

Step back in time, and out of the rain, with an immersive trip to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. 

Go on your own voyage of discovery through the 15 galleries and explore the influence of the sea on our history and culture. Learn all about the many different types of boats around the world, stare in awe at the Boat Building Workshop and wander through the main hall with the collection of small boats floating above your heads! There’s so much to discover here; become your own explorer in the world’s third-largest natural deep-water harbour.

Bodmin Jail, Bodmin

Escape the rain with a visit to jail! 

If you’re feeling brave, then you can uncover some of Cornwall’s dark history in this immersive experience, walking in the grim footsteps of the condemned inmates on the state-of-the-art 'Dark Walk'. Learn all about the hidden stories and myths of Cornwall and the historic jail building and discover the truths about the day-to-day life of the inmates kept at Bodmin Jail over the centuries.

Tate St Ives, St Ives

Stay dry while admiring some amazing art at the Tate St Ives. 

There’s plenty to digest here, with lots of amazing exhibitions. See some inspiring art indoors and enjoy the breathtaking scenery outdoors as the gallery sits perfectly perched above Porthmeor Beach, with amazing views across the Atlantic Ocean. 

Discover iconic artworks by renowned artists such as Barbara Hepworth, Marlow Moss and Naum Gabo. Refresh at the Café at Tate St Ives with spectacular sea views, sit out on the rooftop terrace and take in the fresh sea air. Take home a living memory of your rainy day out and pick up something special from the shop. The Tate also produces amazing prints to accompany its programme of exhibitions, available for you to take home from the shop.  

Go underground at Geevor Tin Mine, Penzance

When the weather is not so bright, why not follow in the footsteps of many a miner and escape the rain by heading underground? 

Geevor Tin Mine is the key centre within the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. Experience this amazing tin mine that tells the fascinating story of Cornwall’s tin and copper mining heritage and learn all about the major role Cornwall played in the country's mining industry. For more information on Geevor Tin Mine if you are considering visiting, check out our top tin mines in Cornwall guide. 

Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Charlestown

Discover a whole new world beneath Charlestown's streets at the Shipwreck Treasure Museum!

The museum is located on Cornwall’s south coast, in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Charlestown. Regardless of the weather outdoors, you’ll find plenty to discover here indoors. From salvaged stories to underground tunnels and refreshments at the Rebellion Roast House and Moonshine Bar, you’re sure to have an enjoyable day out here, whatever the weather. 

Stay in Cornwall

Cornwall is wonderful in all weathers. Book one of our cosy cottages and start planning your next amazing adventure in our spectacular corner of the world.