Exploring day trip options? Here are some tips for planning days out in Cornwall, whether you’re after family adventure days out, or a fun time with friends!
Keep everyone entertained
If you’re a group with different abilities or interests, or a family with a wide age range, try picking somewhere that has something for everyone. Here at Via Ferrata Cornwall, we have adventure days out that cater for everyone from toddlers and young children, adventuresome children and teens, full-on adrenaline junkie adults and those who love nature but prefer their feet firmly on the ground. There’s also an amazing Café run by The Cornish Barista, so there’s easily enough going on to keep you entertained for the whole day out.
Try something different
We’re spoilt for choice with amazing options for days out in Cornwall. There’s definitely a place for winding down on the beach, walking through the woods and enjoying all that nature has to offer. Sometimes though, doing something a bit different, something that pushes you is hugely valuable and a fantastic way to build friendships over new experiences. Cornwall has lots to offer in the way of adrenaline activities, and we run adventures that are incredibly fun, whilst also giving you the chance to conquer fears and feel a huge sense of achievement. Here’s what one person had to say about our Via Ferrata – a unique high wire adventure with a zip wire:
Go. Just go. There’s no question about it…spending a few hours at this place will be far more beneficial to you and your family than sitting like a yoyo on a beach. What this place does is bring you back to face your fears in a hugely well controlled and very safe environment. When was the last time you did that? It doesn’t matter if you are 8 or 80, everyone needs a regular adrenaline shake up; this place provides it in spades, and is run by some exceptionally professional guys. Plus there is a fantastic cafe too. My advice is to book, if there is space 😉
Days out away from the crowds
Cornwall can get incredibly busy, especially during the Summer! There are places where you can escape the crowds, though…
Our peaceful inland site is just one of these, but there are lots of options, from stunning walks around Bodmin Moor, to places like Wheal Maid and Poldice Valley near St Day, where you can take in Cornwall’s fascinating mining heritage. If you’ve got tickets for an activity with a set arrival time, it’s worth leaving early to account for traffic. Here we have a Café and nature trails on-site, so there’ll be plenty of things for you to do before your adventure starts if you arrive with time to kill!
Plan for all weathers!
Cornwall can be wet, so it’s worth having a back-up plan or deciding to go all in and embrace it anyway – welly boots and all! It’s worth checking the terms and conditions if you’re planning a day out with an adventure provider. Sometimes they may have to cancel for safety reasons if the winds or tides are too strong. We’re lucky enough to be based inland on a stunning and sheltered site. Our activities take place in water-filled quarries protected from the elements, meaning they go ahead come rain or shine and only get postponed in the face of lightning or incredibly strong winds. The adventures are just as fun in the rain, too, and activities like coasteering mean that you’re already wet anyway!
Days out to boost mental wellbeing
The NHS has listed five tips to improve mental health: connecting with others, being physically active, learning new skills, giving to others and paying attention to the present moment (mindfulness). For an amazing day out to remember, it’s worth exploring options that give you the chance to enjoy these things. We’re biased, but we really believe that there’s nothing like having fun outdoor adventures to make you feel good! If you’re after some much needed outdoor fun, then check out our activities to boost mental health!
Flexibility
If you’re trying something a little different and you’re not sure how your children will take to it, it’s good to have a few options! Some attractions will let you have a taster session, where you can upgrade to the full experience on the day.
Our Via Ferrata course starts with the Adventure Zone, which gives you the chance to have a go at navigating the cliff face using the metal rungs, before braving the high wire bridge. If you enjoy that, you can progress to the Full Classic route on the day. This involves traversing the cliff faces at greater heights, tackling some more high challenges and ending with the zip wire! The vast majority of people who complete the Adventure Zone progress to the Full Classic route – and love it! Having the option is what’s important, and you can always enjoy other activities once you’re done, like exploring our adventure nature trails and learning about the various wildlife and habitats we have on-site. We also offer mixed watersports sessions: not sure if your children will prefer kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding? Let them try all three!
Food and drink
It’s worth checking if there’s somewhere to get food where you’re going or planning a picnic – especially if your day out is going to be an active one! Children especially can get hungry quickly, even more so when burning lots of calories on adventure activities! Here we have an amazing Café on-site run by The Cornish Barista. It offers delicious coffee, cakes, breakfast, brunch, lunch and takeouts with vegan options. There’s also an amazing view overlooking the quarry. Finally, there are some picnic benches if you’d rather bring your own food!
Book tickets in advance
Tickets for attractions in Cornwall get snapped up quickly, so it’s worth bagsying your spaces early to avoid disappointment!
Budgeting
You can try searching for discounts and following the attractions you’re interested in on social media. Some will run social media competitions or provide updates on any discounts they’re running. There are also discounts in Seymac’s For One and All Guide, which includes various voucher options for different attractions, so look out for it in the leaflet racks throughout Cornwall!
Days out with a cause
If your day out helps a good cause, all the better! Some attractions that make a real difference include the Cornish Seal Sanctuary at Gweek and the Flicka Foundation, which is free to visit but welcomes donations. All our profits go to our launching charity BF Adventure, which provides vital care to Cornwall’s children and young people in need.
Pack for every eventuality!
Some of the best days out can be spontaneous, so if you’re planning a day exploring Cornwall by yourselves it’s worth packing for all adventures, whether it’s a last minute swim, or an unplanned hike. Raincoat, layers, good shoes, enough water, sun cream, plasters – you name it!
Have fun!
Most importantly, have fun, have a laugh and make some amazing days out to remember! Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a brilliant time!
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Got questions? Get in touch!
If you’ve any questions then please do get in touch! You’ll get the fastest response by emailing us!
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