Entertaining kids in the rain.
Whilst we would love to promise that every day in Cornwall was hot and sunny (we wish!) we all know that there will be the odd day or two when a wet weather plan is needed. Although the adults may fancy holing up in a pub with a roaring fire, sometimes a good old family day out is what’s needed. We’ve put together a few ideas for those days when the rain is coming down and the troops are getting restless!
Discovering 42, Bodmin
https://www.discovering42.co.uk
This award-winning art and science museum is all about the hands-on. A world away from the dusty old museums of yesteryear, this engaging and interactive experience discusses big topics, yet in a way that encourages exploration and play. Garnering a great reputation from all who visit, this up-and-coming venue is a truly exciting project.
Eden Project, St Austell
Not just for the sunny days, Eden has lots of amazing indoor areas to explore. Take your time wandering around the Rainforest Biome, enjoying temperatures that reach 35C in some areas, so hot that you will look forward to returning to the Cornish Mizzle outside! Eden hosts various events for young and old throughout the year, whatever the weather, so check their website before you go as booking may be advised.
Geevor Tin Mine, Nr Penzance
If it’s really coming down out there, what better place to be than underground! Explore the mine buildings and the huge machinery that hauled the miners and their finds up from below ground, or head underground yourself and experience the tunnels that wind deep into the earth. Once back up top, have a crack at panning for gold, you never know what riches you may find!
Bodmin Jail, Bodmin
If you and your brood are into having the absolute bejonkers scared out of you, then this is the place! Bodmin Jail has undergone a full reinvention, and now offers a range of spine-tingling activities, from ghost hunting to “The Dark Walk”, an immersive experience that takes you back in time and through the murky history of this building and its inhabitants. Be prepared for frights around every corner!
Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay
https://www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/newquay/
If you just can’t tear yourself away from the ocean, even for a day, head to the aquarium to enjoy some close-up time with some amazing creatures from the deep. Blue Reef has a daily selection of talks and feeds (I highly recommend checking out the giant octopus!) as well as over 40 themed habitats and an underwater tunnel, giving you the chance to take a walk under the sea without getting wet!
Player Ready, VR Gaming
https://player-ready.co.uk/truro/
If it all gone wrong and you just need to appease the kids, chuck them in here and let them tech it out. With a huge variety of games, zombie experiences, racing and escape rooms, all played standing up, these guys will keep the kids (and adults!) busy until the clouds have rolled by.
National Maritime Museum, Falmouth
Cornwall’s maritime heritage is proudly showcased at this fun and interactive museum, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. With regularly updated exhibitions and great activities for the kids, the museum documents seafaring life in all its forms, whilst promoting Cornwall’s maritime influence and connections to the rest of the world. And if the kids are yet to be convinced, tell them that there is loads of stuff about pirates.
Cornwall Laser Tag
https://www.cornwall-lasertag.co.uk
Generally punted as one for the kids, this is one activity that brings out the fun in everyone. Be ready to witness grown ups attempting commando rolls while the kids skip nimbly about making the whole thing look easy, all accompanied by a gaming-style soundtrack.
📸 Photo credits: Discovering 42, Bodmin Jail, VR Gaming Truro, Cornwall Laser Tag.