Family fun in Cornwall

Signs of colour and life are starting to take hold which makes it's an ideal time to go for a local walk, whilst tranquil beaches await footprints along the shore. Why not get outside for a walk near where you live at the places we care for in Cornwall?

Visitors walking through a garden in spring

Visiting this spring 

Our gardens, parks and countryside locations are open to visit. Shops are also open and outdoor seating is available at some cafés. Subject to government confirmation, we're planning to reopen houses in England and Wales from 17 May, and in Northern Ireland from 24 May. Advance booking for visits helps us keep everyone safe and socially distanced. When space is available, particularly on weekdays, pre-booking isn't always necessary. But to guarantee, entry please always book in advance, especially at busier times like weekends and bank holidays. Please check the property webpage before you visit and follow government guidance.

More details on what's open

Spring family fun in Cornwall

Camellias at the entrance to Glendurgan

Glendurgan Garden 

Peaceful and playful valley garden near Falmouth, where big leaves and exotic flowers thrive in the jungle-like lower valley and sun-loving specimens enjoy the upper banks. Colourful camellias, snowdrops and early daffodils and primroses bring colour to the garden for local visitors to enjoy.

Spring blossom in the garden at Lanhydrock, Cornwall

Lanhydrock 

You'll find ancient woodlands and tranquil riverside paths on Lanhydrock's estate, near Bodmin. There's no need to book to walk around the estate, but tickets must be booked to visit the garden.

Spring bulbs flowering and white gate in the Upper Garden at Cotehele, Cornwall

Cotehele 

Glorious Cornish garden with valley views and an expansive estate to explore. The garden features terraces, ponds and orchards with 150 local apple varieties.

Godolphin spring magnolia

Godolphin 

An ancient and atmospheric estate with a medieval garden rich in archaeology and wildlife. In the walled King's Garden, cloud-like box hedges follow neat paths that shelter the primroses flowering below them come spring.

Little girl in daffodils at Easter

Easter egg hunts in the South West 

Discover your local family-friendly trail in the South West with fun activities to do along the way. Complete the trail and earn your chocolate reward at the end - although Easter is over, the fun is continuing at many places while stocks last.

Find your local adventure in nature
Visitors at the derelict lifeboat station at Polpeor Cove, Lizard Point, Cornwall

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 a beach
Friends enjoy their takeaway drinks on a wintry day in Saltram garden
Walking trail 

Walks in the South West with a café

Whether you’re looking for fuel to kick-start a 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 pick up a takeaway treat. 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
Soak in spring with the family at Killerton

Visit our family hub 

Delve into our garden shed of fun activities for the kids throughout the seasons. Explore things to do, games to play and recipes to bake. There's lots to be done outdoors in nature or indoors on a rainy day.

Family activities
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