Family fun in Cornwall

Looking for something to do with the family as summer draws to a close and autumn unfolds? There's all sorts to do at places in Cornwall: the gardens are filled with vibrant colour and leaves to crunch through, beaches are looking peaceful and beautiful, and there are '50 things to do before you're 11¾' adventures to be had.

Please book ahead before visiting

We're looking forward to welcoming you back. We’re reopening the places you love, safely and in line with government guidance. We recommend you book in advance for visits to gardens, parks and houses, especially at busy times such as weekends. See what’s open and ready for you to book this week below.

A few autumn highlights

Family playing in autumn leaves

Autumn at Antony 

Maybe it's the feeling of cold cheeks after a brisk walk that you really love, or watching the kids dance in falling leaves? Whichever, you can make some memories with friends and family this autumn at Antony.

Harvested gourds and squashes.

Autumn half term at Trerice 

Your guide to the autumn half term at Trerice.

Family playing amongst the autumn leaves

Autumn fun at Cotehele 

There are plenty of adventures to be had at Cotehele this autumn. Have an outdoor adventure as you explore the woods and gardens and get to know nature a little better.

parent and child dressed in warm hats and coats walk along the Camellia Walk at Glendurgan in autumn

Glendurgan Garden 

At Glendurgan you can take in the sights and sounds of nature. Go bird watching in the garden, discover Durgan beach at the bottom of the garden and explore the rock pools at low tide. There’s a wonderful variety of seasonal highlights to enjoy at Glendurgan at this time of year including the vibrant autumn colours, different apples growing in the orchard and homemade cake from Glendurgan Tea House.

Two girls playing among the autumn leaves

Places to picnic and play at Trengwainton 

Both people and plants like to make the most of the late summer and early autumn sunshine at Trengwainton. As the garden slowly winds down towards winter, it’s a great time to take a stroll along the winding, wooded paths, enjoy the sights of the changing colours and light, and finish with a treat at the tea-room.

Sun on autumn leaves with cider house at Godolphin, Cornwall

Autumn at Godolphin 

Join us this autumn to stretch your legs and spread your wings in the great outdoors. Young explorers can use their senses to explore Godolphin with a self-led trail or why not try a new ‘50 things before you’re 11¾’ activity? The garden is full of glorious seasonal colour.

A man and woman in the countryside holding binoculars

Autumn in north Cornwall 

The changing colours of the coast make autumn an ideal time to explore new places or return to old favourites, enjoying them afresh. We invite you to swap your flip flops for your wellies and find some inspiration on things you could do here.

Explorer family in the parkland at Trelissick, Cornwall

A day out at Trelissick 

Trelissick has perfect picnic spots in the garden as well as routes to ramble across parkland and through woodland. Discover what other family activities are on offer around Cornwall.

A family enjoy the beach at Poldhu Cove

Family friendly beaches in Cornwall 

There are lots of beaches to explore in Cornwall. Here are some that are looked after by the National Trust awaiting your visit, and are beautiful year-round for hardy souls who brave a visit whatever the season.

Find the perfect holiday beach
A couple walking their dog through the woods at Penrose

Autumn walks in Cornwall 

Autumn is one of the best seasons to explore the Cornish coast and countryside. The colours change and the light shifts, making memorable walks shrouded in nature. Here are some favourites.

15 walks in Cornwall
Winter walking
Walking trail 

Walks in the South West with a café

Whether you’re looking for fuel to kick-start a chilly ramble on the coast, or are returning from a gentle stroll in the woods, you’ll find these kiosks, cafés and tea-rooms are great places to refuel and enjoy a treat or two. What's more, every visit you make and piece of cake you buy helps us carry on looking after special places for everyone to enjoy, for ever.

Find a walking route
Family enjoying a picnic

Places to picnic in Cornwall 

Sandy beaches, colourful gardens, secluded coves: Cornwall is filled with perfect picnic spots which can be enjoyed whatever the weather (just don't forget your waterproofs). Here are just a few suggestions for your next picnic.

Cornish picnic spots
Family taking part in craft activities

Recreating places from the South West at home 

If you're in need of a National Trust fix but can't get out at the moment, we have some different ways you could recreate your favourite places from the South West at home, from baking to knitting to cut-out and create models.

Have a go

Places to visit in the South West 

Find out which other gardens and outdoor spaces we care for in the South West are open by county, and how to book to visit.

Find out where you can book to visit in the South West

Which places are open and what you need to know before you visit 

More than 100 gardens and parks and hundreds of coast and countryside places are open in England and Northern Ireland. Many historic houses are open in England. To avoid disappointment please book in advance, especially at weekends and school holidays. In line with Welsh Government legislation, all places in Wales will close from 24 October to 9 November. Please check the property webpage of the place you wish to visit before you travel. Read this article to find out how to book and what to expect from your visit.

Plan your visit