Summer Days Out in Cornwall

On long summer days, when the sun is shining and the sky is clear, there’s nothing we love more than exploring Cornwall’s beautiful sights.

Whether it’s taking in dramatic views of the north coast or enjoying a peaceful wander through lush, subtropical gardens, here’s our round-up of the most memorable summer days out in Cornwall.

The Minack is an incredible open-air theatre carved into the granite cliffs above Porthcurno Beach. Each show is an unforgettable experience, with a backdrop that looks across the bay and out to sea.

In the daytime, you can take a guided tour of the theatre’s subtropical cliffside garden. Then, as the sun sets in the evening, catch a show performed by local or travelling artists. From drama to comedy, storytelling to Shakespeare, there is something for everyone. But if you book a musical performance, make sure to keep an eye on the water as singing has been known to attract dolphins.

We recommend you book in advance and take something cosy to wrap up warm in.

Lost to the undergrowth during WW1, The Lost Gardens of Heligan is Europe’s largest garden restoration project. There are now over 200 acres to explore, with winding centuries-old paths, subtropical jungle and restored Victorian pleasure grounds ready to be enjoyed.

The estate is also home to the first Rare Breeds Park in the South West. Take a walk through the meadows and spot the highland cattle and longhorn sheep, then head into the woodland and try to find the pigs foraging amongst the trees.

Before you leave, make sure to visit the Productive Gardens to step back in time and see how the Victorians grew herbs, fruits and crops. The garden now supplies Heligan Kitchen, where you can enjoy a spot of lunch and sample the produce first-hand

Set on the site of a former clay mine, the Eden Project is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Hosted within a giant biome, you can trek from South East Asia to West Africa in an afternoon, all while exploring a verdant array of tropical groves, trees and plants. It even has its own waterfall and rain exhibit, helping to show how the rainforest supports us all.

With a mission to celebrate plants and reconnect people to the natural world, the Eden Project is also home to acres of outdoor gardens and a second Mediterranean-themed biome.

It’s the perfect day out for families and nature lovers looking to get up close and personal with rare and exotic plants. Ideal on rainy days when the Cornish weather leaves you wondering what to do.

Situated on a tiny island just off Cornwall’s wild north coast, access to Tintagel Castle is via a dramatic footbridge with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Once crossed, spend the day walking amongst medieval ruins to discover the myths, legends and history of Tintagel.

Only ten minutes away from Tintagel Castle, venture into the forest to explore one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets – St Nectan’s Glen woodland and waterfalls.

Wander around the circular woodland walk to find St Nectan’s Kieve, where the water of the river Trevillet pours through a hole in the rock into the pool below. A peaceful and sacred place, it is adorned with inscriptions, prayers and stone stacks. There are two other waterfalls to discover, alongside Saint Nectan’s hermitage and plenty of wildlife.

After your walk, relax at The Tree of Life Café which serves delicious Cornish produce with views looking out into the woodland.