The best outdoor adventures in Cornwall

Staycationing in our cheap caravans in Cornwall and wondering how you can make some lifelong memories on your trip? There are plenty of outdoor adventures in Kernow that can allow you to be in the fresh air whilst experiencing something awe-inspiring. In this article, we recommend some of our favourites.

Adrenalin Quarry

For those who are looking for a real thrill on their holiday, Adrenalin Quarry is the adventure you are seeking. Home to a vast range of tantalising water sports, at Adrenalin Quarry you can make lifelong memories and have a day of exhilarating fun. As well as water sports, get behind the wheel and take on your loved ones at go-karting, try your hand at axe-throwing and even soar above the quarry on a zipline.

What’s more, don’t worry about an entry fee if you aren’t looking to try everything, as each attraction is ticketed separately, so you only pay for what you use. Or, if you just want to enjoy some wild swimming in the lake you can do so for free. However, we recommended you take on the Aquapark and unleash your inner kid!

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

For nature lovers, The Lost Gardens of Heligan offer a wonderful family day out – it’s even dog-friendly! With myriad flora to be in awe over, even in the rain, you could be forgiven for thinking you are in the Garden of Eden rather than Cornwall. Heligan brings together a traditional English garden with a rich, tropical jungle. In fact, it’s home to the only outdoor jungle in the UK!

Penny from The Great Cornish Outdoors spoke to us about the Lost Gardens: “Heligan is a great day out for people of all ages. Plant lovers and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the seasonal colours and the ever-changing gardens on show. It’s a safe and interesting place for children and families to explore. You can learn about what’s currently growing in the vegetable garden (and later used in the kitchens), and see what the people at The Lost Garden of Heligan are doing to protect and promote local wildlife. My favourite has to be the jungle. Tall, imposing greenery and all the fun of trying to cross the rope bridge without too much wobbling. Plus, ending the day with a Cornish cream tea is a must!”

Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Whenever and wherever you are travelling, embracing the opportunity to learn is a fantastic way to absorb more of the local culture and history. And a wonderful way to do this is by visiting museums. One museum that we think is well worth a visit whilst in Cornwall in Wheal Martyn Clay Works.

At Wheal Martyn Clay Works you can learn all about china clay mining, Cornwall’s largest mining industry. Located on a former Victorian clay mine, you can enjoy the museum and also enjoy the ample outdoor space and walking routes, which have stunning views over the modern-day working clay pit.

The Minack Theatre

The only thing that can be more spectacular than amazing live theatre, is live theatre seen at The Minack Theatre. A theatre that’s more than just a place to sit and watch a play, the Minack is situated on a cliff edge overlooking the turquoise waters and was built by hand by theatre enthusiast Rowena Cade.

Phil Jackson, the Theatre Manager explained what visitors who have never been before can expect: “The Minack Theatre is one of the world’s most famous open-air venues. We stage performances throughout the summer months, including daytime family shows, and when there are no performances, visitors can explore our extraordinary cliffside theatre and sub-tropical gardens and enjoy our breathtaking ocean views. This year we are restricting our admissions and all visitors need to book a timed entry in advance. We are a very popular venue so it’s essential to book early.”

Tintagel Castle

A true piece of history. Visit cliff-side Tintagel Castle whilst on a Cornwall holiday and you’re sure to be in for a treat. A Medieval Castle that is home to the legends of King Arthur and still has a very royal feel to it today. Walk the bridge which has brought together the two sides of Tintagel for the first time in 500 years, explore the castle ruins and decide yourself whether you believe the legends of Kind Arthur to be true!

As well as the castle, you can also enjoy the old garden. English Heritage says: “Discover the remains of the medieval walled garden which Earl Richard may have built in reference to the famous love story of Tristan and Iseult. Engraved steppingstones around the garden retell the tragic medieval tale.”

St Michael’s Mount

One of the most stunning locations in Cornwall, and the UK, St Michael’s Mount is an island-experience you can walk to, yes, you read that right! When the tide is low, walk across the sandbanks for an adventure on St Michael’s Mount. Climb the steps to the castle and learn the tale of the giant that was rumoured to once live there!

Frankie from Meet Me By The Sea told us about her love for St Michael’s Mount: “There are a few places in Cornwall that are labelled as the ‘must visits’ and St Michael’s Mount is definitely one of them. Located in Marazion, walk over the causeway during low tide for an adventure that will take you back in time. Part of the experience is to walk over the causeway so I would suggest checking the tide times before your trip. It really is a magical experience!”

Penny from The Great Cornish Outdoors also has fond memories of the Mount: “A true gem that offers so much to those who visit. I enjoy following the yellow brick road that’s the causeway, as much as exploring St Michael’s Mount itself. It’s all part of the adventure. Once on St Michael’s Mount, it feels tranquil and secluded, particularly the village and harbour. Investigate the gardens, and once inside the castle, weave from one room to another, and learn about the historical connections and long-standing stories that make this day out both memorable and captivating.”

The best outdoor adventures in Cornwall:

• Adrenalin Quarry
• Wheal Martyn Clay Works
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan
• The Minack Theatre
• Tintagel Castle
• St Michael’s Mount

For more Cornwall news and guides, check out our blog. And, if you have any questions about our Cornwall holiday park, feel free to contact us.