on 19/01/2026
As serene as Cornwall is, sometimes there’s just no escaping the British weather... but this doesn’t mean your holiday has to be grey and miserable too!
Luckily there is so much more to a holiday in Cornwall than soaking up the rays on the beach so read on for our personal recommendations of rainy day activities in Cornwall.
As a county drenched in fascinating history it’s no surprise that Cornwall’s many museums are at the top of our list! From dramatic mines, to interactive maritime exhibits, and even a trip to prison, there’s plenty to choose from!
An exciting opportunity to wander through old mining passageways as well as a museum packed full of artefacts and mining equipment.
15 incredible galleries filled with hanging boats, RNLI vehicles, authentic fishing equipment, and an underwater lookout. Make sure to check out their upcoming events!
We can’t list Cornwall's best historical attractions without a mention to Bodmin Jail! The site, dating back to the 1700’s, houses original jail cells, an administration block, and a recreation of Bodmin Moor. Feeling brave? Why not book a ghost tour?
Surrounded by impressive natural beauty, Cornwall has inspired many artists over the years with a whole host of art museums and galleries to show for it!
A presentation of modern and contemporary art from around the world alongside a regularly changing selection of interactive exhibitions for all ages! Check out the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Gardens while you’re there to see the magnificent sculptures.
Inspired by local artists, the Penlee House Gallery houses an evolving collection celebrating the skill and craftsmanship of painting in West Cornwall in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. There’s also a recently refurbished social history gallery housing a wealth of artefacts covering the area’s fascinating and often quirky heritage.
You don’t have to be blown away on a clifftop to experience the outstanding nature of Cornwall on a blustery day- try these options instead for a more sheltered experience!
This educational ecological attraction is made up of impressive domes used to emulate various natural biomes resulting in an impressive collection of exotic plant species. Just think, you could wander through the desert while the rest of Cornwall suffers a downpour!
A family run animal sanctuary specialising in endangered parrots, home to over 1,200 birds (including around 700 parrots) plus mammals including Red Pandas, Red Squirrels, Asian Otters, Harvest Mice plus the Fun Farm animals. Head to the JungleBarn for the ultimate soft play course!
Sometimes all you need on a rainy day is some retail therapy- ideal for finding the perfect holiday souvenir.
Described as an eclectic mix of independent shops and cafes all under one roof.
A collection of café’s, restaurants, shops, and wellness centres- there’s even a nursery!
A lovely collection of local independent shops an galleries.
Browse our collection of hand-picked holiday rentals across Cornwall and experience the magic of Cornwall’s beaches this winter.
