{"id":32654,"date":"2021-04-22T16:44:34","date_gmt":"2021-04-22T16:44:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/?p=32654"},"modified":"2024-08-07T12:45:29","modified_gmt":"2024-08-07T11:45:29","slug":"30-free-things-cornwall","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/things-to-do\/30-free-things-cornwall\/","title":{"rendered":"30 free things to do in Cornwall"},"content":{"rendered":"

Cornwall is famous for its breathtaking beaches and stunning scenery. This beautiful area of the UK has something to offer holidaymakers of all ages.<\/h2>\n

When you visit Cornwall on holiday, you\u2019ll be captivated by the mesmerising scenery and enthralled by the local history. The great news is that not only is Cornwall a beautiful place to visit, but it\u2019s also somewhere you can enjoy on a budget. With this in mind, here\u2019s our guide to 30 of the best free things to do in Cornwall<\/a>.<\/h4>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

1. Museum of Cornish Life<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Museum of Cornish Life<\/span><\/a> displays artefacts and objects that show the best of Cornish culture. The museum has been described as \u2018a treasure trove of memories and curiosities\u2019 and it\u2019s a great way to learn about the region\u2019s recent history. The museum houses one of the largest social history collections in England and includes a collection dedicated to famous inventor Henry Trengrouse.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

2. Falmouth Art Gallery<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Falmouth Art Gallery<\/span><\/a> is completely free to visit. The gallery is situated in the trendy Moor area of Falmouth and sits in an impressive building that contains a grand staircase. The artwork here is just as impressive as its surroundings, which is why it has won multiple awards. The collection includes everything from Pre-Raphaelite and British Impressionist paintings to contemporary prints and works submitted by children.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

3. Tintagel Toy Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Relive your youth at the Tintagel Toy Museum<\/span><\/a>, which is home to a great selection of toys from history, including items from The Magic Roundabout and Noddy. The museum is incredibly popular with families and many of the toys are also for sale. It\u2019s a real Aladdin\u2019s Cave of collectibles and you\u2019ll love taking a stroll down memory lane.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

4. Penryn Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Penryn Museum<\/span><\/a> is housed in the Town Hall. Although the museum is only small, it\u2019s packed with curiosities. Plus, the staff that work here are incredibly knowledgeable and can tell you everything you need to know about the history of each artefact. The museum specialises in Cornish history and contains exhibits on the 900-year history of Penryn.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

5. The New Craftsmen Gallery<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The New Craftsmen Gallery<\/span><\/a> showcases creative works of art from Cornwall-based artists. The gallery was founded in the 1960s and now it represents more than 100 artists and presents eight curated exhibitions a year. There\u2019s a focus on contemporary art here, so expect to see works by up-and-coming painters, potters and sculptors.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

6. St Ives Farmers’ Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30The farmers market in St. Ives<\/span><\/a> has won multiple awards for showcasing the best produce from local Cornish farmers. The market is held every Thursday and is incredibly popular with locals and tourists alike. Although it\u2019s a farmers\u2019 market, you\u2019ll find all sorts of products here, from fresh dairy to impressive cakes and beautiful crafts.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

7. Helston Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Helston Market<\/span><\/a> is held at Helston Methodist Chapel every Friday morning from 9am to 12pm. Formerly known as the Helston Country Market, this is the oldest traditional market in Helston although they recently relocated. It’s considered to be one of the friendliest local markets and many visitors simply stop by for a cuppa and a chat with the stallholders. Expect to find fresh produce, hand-made crafts and tasty treats. There may even be the odd sample or two.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

8. Truro Cathedral<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Truro Cathedral<\/span><\/a> is the only cathedral in Cornwall. It was also the first cathedral to be built in Britain for 800 years. No matter where you are in Truro, you\u2019ll see the cathedral because its three spires dominate the skyline. When you arrive, you\u2019ll immediately fall in love with the Gothic Revival style architecture. You\u2019re also welcome to stay for a service or visit the restaurant.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

9. St Senara Church<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30The church of St Senara<\/span><\/a> in Zennor is said to have been named after a Bretton princess. Although every aspect of the church is beautiful and intricately carved, most people visit in order to learn more about the legend of the mermaid of Zennor. She\u2019s carved into \u2018the mermaid chair\u2019 in the church and locals believe she was so beautiful that she lured a local choirboy to live in the sea with her.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

10. St Winwaloe Church<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30The church of St Winwalloe<\/span><\/a> in Gunwalloe is a church with a difference. It sits directly next to the beach, which is known affectionately as \u2018church cove\u2019. As well as its unusual location, the church has another interesting feature: the church tower is separate from the main church. It\u2019s interesting, unique and well worth a visit.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

11. Walk the South West Coast Path<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Walk along the South West Coast Path<\/span><\/a> and you\u2019ll be treated to some of the finest sights in Britain. The path runs from the centre of Minehead to the edge of Exmoor National Park, measuring a whopping 630 miles. Thankfully, the trail is split into sections. The one from Padstow to Newquay is great if you fancy a challenge. Just remember to take your camera.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

12. Walk along the Camel Trail<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30The Camel Trail<\/span><\/a> follows the route of a disused rail track. It\u2019s largely flat, which makes it popular with walkers and cyclists alike. The full route spans for 18 miles through the Camel Valley, but there are shorter routes if you have kids with you, such as the section from Wadebridge to Padstow.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

13. Cross the Causeway to St Michael’s Mount<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"freeSt Michael\u2019s Mount<\/span><\/a> is an iconic destination. If you look out to sea at high tide, it looks like an island. But, as the tide retreats, a causeway appears and you can walk across to the harbour. Most of St Michael\u2019s Mount is free to explore, but you\u2019ll need to pay a small fee if you want to look around the magnificent castle and its pretty gardens.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

14. Lanhydrock Cycle Trails<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"freeThe cycling trails<\/span><\/a> around the National Trust property of Lanhydrock are free to explore. The trails are signposted and labelled to show their difficulty and there\u2019s even one that\u2019s been specifically designed for trailers and tagalongs. The green trail is great for little legs, while the blue and red trails are more of a test. There\u2019s also a skills area.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

15. Perranporth to St Agnes Clifftop Walk<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30If you\u2019re looking for a short and child-friendly walk, then try the Perranporth to St Agnes Clifftop Walk<\/span><\/a>. The walk only measures 3.5 miles and it\u2019s fairly flat. Plus, the views over the Atlantic Ocean are sensational and you\u2019ll come across lots of the local wildlife. It can get windy on the hilltops, but there are plenty of great picnic spots where you can dine with a view.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

16. Bude Canal Walk<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Most of Cornwall\u2019s great walks hug the coastline. But, if you\u2019d rather head inland and get away from the crowds, then try the Bude canal walk<\/span><\/a>. This circular walk starts by the canal and then winds through the fields to Widemouth Bay, which is simply stunning. Then, it\u2019s just a short trip back along the coastline into Bude, where you can stop for lunch.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

17. Heartlands<\/strong><\/h3>\n

At Heartlands<\/span><\/a>, there are over 19 acres of parkland to explore. The park was named as the UK\u2019s first cultural playground and it\u2019s really popular with families because it contains something to keep everyone happy. There\u2019s a playground for the little ones, sculptures to climb on, craft studios and bio-diverse gardens. Whether it\u2019s raining or sunny, Heartlands is a great place to be.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

18. Mount Edgcumbe Country Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Mount Edgcumbe Country Park<\/span><\/a> was once home to the Earls of Cornwall. Although there\u2019s a cost to enter their house and see where they once lived, you can explore the surrounding 865 acres of parkland for free. The Tree Trail and the Landscape Walk are both particularly popular with families and they\u2019ll take you to some of the best viewpoints around the grounds.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

19. Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Cornwall is known for its beautiful gardens, but attractions like the Eden Project and Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens are expensive to visit. So, if you\u2019d like to visit free gardens instead, then try Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park<\/span><\/a>. There\u2019s something for the whole family here. Adults can relax in the beautiful grounds while little ones can burn off energy in the playground or in the skate park.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

20. Coronation Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Coronation Park<\/span><\/a> is a great place for the whole family to spend a relaxing afternoon. The park is run by the community and it includes a boating lake, a play park for children, a skate park and a caf\u00e9. It\u2019s a popular picnic spot and it\u2019s easy to enjoy an afternoon in the sunshine here away from the crowds.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

21. Roskilly’s Organic Farm<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Roskilly\u2019s Organic Farm<\/span><\/a> is a working organic farm that makes fresh produce the whole family will enjoy. During your visit, you can see a working dairy farm in action, take a guided tour or just enjoy a walk in the countryside. If you have a couple of pounds to spend, you can also purchase some of the farm\u2019s ice cream and fudge.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

22. Visit Rough Tor at Sunset<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Rough Tor is Cornwall\u2019s highest hill. The climb up here is steep at times, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. When you reach the summit of Rough Tor<\/span><\/a>, you\u2019re treated to one of the finest views in the country, as the site looks over the Fernacre Stone Circle. Due to its position, it\u2019s the perfect place to watch the sunset.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

23. The Golitha Falls<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30The Golitha Falls<\/span><\/a> are a series of waterfalls along a section of the River Fowey near Draynes Wood. Over the course of the falls, the river descends by around 90 metres and passes through wooded glades and craggy gorges. Woodland flowers like bluebells will form the perfect backdrop for any photos you take of this beautiful site.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

24. Bude Sea Pool<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30The Bude Sea Pool<\/span><\/a> is incredibly popular with families because it provides kids with a safe space to swim away from the tides. The pool is large and children are also welcome to bring inflatables, snorkels and surfboards. However, serious swimmers do use the pool for training, so you have to watch where you\u2019re paddling. Changing facilities are also available.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

25. Rock Pooling at Treyarnon Bay<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Treyarnon Bay<\/span><\/a> between Newquay and Padstow has some large but shallow rock pools that are great for kids. As you scour the rock pools, be on the lookout for pipefish, transparent prawns and cushioned stars. If you get a chance, join one of the rockpool safaris that are run by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

26. Surf at Fistral Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Cornwall is home to some of the country\u2019s best beaches, but Fistral Beach<\/span><\/a> is arguably its most iconic. The water here is perfect for surfers, so sit back and watch people take on the waves. If you fancy trying it yourself, there are plenty of surf schools on the shoreline.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

27. Discover Merlin’s Cave in Tintagel<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"30Tintagel is known for its history and the castle here has links to the birth of King Arthur. However, you don\u2019t need to pay a fortune for castle access to get close to the action. This is because, at low tide, you can explore Merlin\u2019s Cave<\/span><\/a>. The cave is accessible via a footpath but it does fill at high tide, so check the tide times before you travel.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

28. St Ives Food and Drink Festival<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The St Ives Food and Drink Festival<\/span><\/a> is the highlight of Cornwall\u2019s culinary calendar. Every year, Porthminster Beach is transformed into a culinary hotspot where chefs host demos, do live cooking and serve up delicious treats. There\u2019s also lots of entertainment and music, although some performances are ticketed. The food and drink is top-notch, so bring some change for your dinner.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

29. St Ives September Festival<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The St Ives September Festival<\/span><\/a> is a music and arts festival that takes place at various venues across St Ives. The festival is incredibly popular and includes live music performances, talks, art exhibitions, theatre performances and street entertainment. Although you need to pay to see some of the headliners, many of the events in this two-week festival are free to attend.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

30. Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair<\/span><\/a> is one of Cornwall\u2019s most popular seasonal attractions. The fair lasts for three weeks between November and December and, during this period, the streets of Truro\u2019s Lemon Quay are transformed into a winter wonderland that\u2019s full of street vendors and local crafters. It\u2019s the perfect place to see Santa and grab a gift.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
<\/h5>\n
\n

<\/h4>\n

Whether you fancy lounging on the beach, reconnecting with nature or enjoying some family-friendly fun, Cornwall is the place to be. If you\u2019re thinking of visiting the area, then check out our great range of hotels in Cornwall<\/span><\/a> before you book your trip<\/h4>\n

Book your trip to Cornwall today<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Cornwall is famous for its breathtaking beaches and stunning scenery. This beautiful area of the UK has something to offer holidaymakers of all ages. When you visit Cornwall on holiday, you\u2019ll be captivated by the mesmerising scenery and enthralled by the local history. The great news is that not only is Cornwall a beautiful place […]","protected":false},"author":95,"featured_media":15091,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1381,1361],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-32654","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beach-breaks","category-things-to-do"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32654","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/95"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32654"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32654\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15091"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32654"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=32654"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=32654"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}