A 7 Day Family Holiday Itinerary for South Cornwall

Posted by Select Cornwall

on 11/07/2024

7-Day Family Holiday Itinerary in South Cornwall

Here is a 7 day itinerary for a perfect family summer holiday in South Cornwall this year, including our favourite dog friendly days out, amazing beaches and top rated family friendly restaurants around the coast.

Day 1: Arrive in Cornwall and start exploring 

  • Morning: Arrive in South Cornwall and check into your accommodation. (If you're wanting to explore South Cornwall, click here for 5* self-catering cottages near Falmouth)
  • Afternoon:
    • Gyllyngvase Beach: Enjoy the sandy shores and a refreshing swim at one of South Cornwall's best sandy beaches. 
    • Lunch: Gylly Beach Cafe (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5) located right on the beach, offering a family-friendly atmosphere and great views.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Longstore, Charlestown (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes, including seafood and steaks.

Day 2: Theme Park Fun

  • Morning & Afternoon:
    • Flambards Theme Park: Located in Helston, Flambards is a family-friendly theme park with rides and attractions for all ages. Dogs are welcome in the park, but not on the rides!
    • Lunch: Enjoy a variety of food options available within the park, or take your own picnic or grab a pasty on route.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Watering Hole, Perranporth (Tripadvisor rating: 4/5). This dog-friendly beach bar is the only bar on a beach in the UK and offers a laid-back atmosphere, frequent live music and a menu full of family favourites. The sunsets in Perranporth are magical.

Day 3: Coastal Adventure

  • Morning:
    • Lizard Point: Visit the UK's southernmost point. It's a great spot for coastal walks, and dogs are welcome. The Lizard is also a queiter part of Cornwall, where you can retreat from the crowds and truly immerse yourself in the wildlife and nature.
  • Lunch: Ann's Pasties, Mullion (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). Try the traditional Cornish pasties, a must-have when holidaying in Cornwall.
  • Afternoon:
    • Kynance Cove: Explore this stunning and beach with its unique rock formations and turquoise waters. This beach tops best beaches globally, and the water is incredibly clear. If you love to paddle board, this is a great spot to get on the water! There is a Summer dog ban between July & August between 10-6pm.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Ship Inn, Mousehole (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). This cosy pub offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, with outdoor seating for those with dogs. Mousehole is a well know, traditional harbour town with historic charm.

Day 4: History and Gardens

  • Morning:
    • Pendennis Castle, Falmouth: Hop on a ferry to enjoy the stunning views from the water, and jump off in Falmouth to explore this historic fortress with your family and dog. Dogs are welcome in the grounds, most ferry trips are also dog friendly.
  • Lunch: The Cornish Bakery, Falmouth (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). Enjoy a selection of pasties and other baked goods.
  • Afternoon:
    • Trebah Garden: A beautiful, dog-friendly sub-tropical garden near Falmouth with stunning views and its own beautiful, private beach.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Pandora Inn, Mylor Bridge (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). A charming, historic inn with a dog-friendly policy, delicious menu and a long pier with tables out on to the water! Enjoy the peaceful views with a pint of local cider together.

Day 5: Animal Encounter

  • Morning & Afternoon:
    • Paradise Park and JungleBarn, Hayle: A family-friendly wildlife sanctuary with a fun indoor play area. While dogs are not allowed inside the park, there's a nearby dog-friendly beach, Hayle Towans Beach, for some playtime.
    • Lunch: Bird in Hand, Hayle (Tripadvisor rating: 4/5). This pub is right next to Paradise Park and offers a great menu for families.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Old Quay House, Hayle (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). A dog-friendly restaurant with beautiful views and a varied menu.

Day 6: Adventure Day

  • Morning:
    • Adrenaline Quarry, Liskeard: Experience zip-lining, coasteering, and other exciting activities. While dogs can't participate, they are welcome on-site.
  • Lunch: Olive & Co, Liskeard (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). A cosy cafe with a great selection of lunch options.
  • Afternoon:
    • Looe Beach: Spend a relaxing afternoon at this dog-friendly beach, perfect for swimming and playing.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Old Sail Loft, Looe (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). Enjoy a delicious meal in a historic building with a dog-friendly policy.

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

  • Morning:
    • Swanpool Beach: Visit this beautiful beach for a final swim, just around the corner from more popular Gylly beach. Grab a coffee and tasty croissant from the many cafes and pubs surrounding the shore.
  • Lunch: The Cornish Bakery, Falmouth. Enjoy another round of their delicious pasties.
  • Afternoon:
    • St Anthony Head Lighthouse: Take a leisurely walk around the coastline and soak up more views before you head home.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: The Stable, Falmouth (Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5). A dog-friendly restaurant known for its pizzas and ciders, perfect for a final family meal.
  • Departure: Head back home with wonderful memories of your South Cornwall holiday.

Recommendations:

  • Check the opening times and booking requirements for attractions and restaurants.
  • Always double check individual beach rules regarding changes to allowing dogs.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks for both the family and the dog, especially for long days out. Plan accordingly with your dog, if it's hot, leave them at your holiday accomodation or arrange a sitter for the day.
  • Always clean up after your dog and keep them on a leash where required.