Top things to do in Cornwall

Top things to do in Cornwall

Extras and activities

Forest Holidays

Discover things to do in Cornwall, all year round

Famous for its rugged coastline, beautiful countryside and sunny climate, Cornwall is ideal for your next adventure. Visit pretty harbour towns that tumble down to the sea, relax on Blue Flag beaches, spend a day exploring iconic Cornwall attractions such as the Eden project or trek across the moors. However you choose to spend your break, you’re sure to discover tons of things to do in Cornwall.

 

 

Inspiration for your Cornwall break

  • Explore the fishing villages of Cornwall

    Explore the fishing villages of Cornwall

    One of the most quintessential Cornwall activities is to discover quaint harbour villages dotted along the coast. Looe and Polperro are just a short drive from Deerpark and further afield lies Tintagel (which is steeped in Arthurian legend), the busy harbour of Mevagissey and St. Ives - famous for its vibrant shops and galleries.

  • Discover literary and cinematic Cornwall

    Discover literary and cinematic Cornwall

    From the novels of Daphne Du Maurier and the drama of Poldark to TV classics such as Dr Who and Doc Martin, Cornwall is the backdrop to tons of books, films and TV shows. Explore Poldark country where old tin mines stand starkly above the cliffs. Visit the pretty harbour town of Port Isaac which doubles as Portwenn in Doc Martin and travel across the moors to Du Maurier’s famed Jamaica Inn.

  • Relax on a blue flag beach

    Relax on a blue flag beach

    Seven of Cornwall’s beaches hold the coveted Blue Flag status. Gather your buckets and spades, pack your picnic and head for Widemouth Bay in Bude, Gyllyngvase at Falmouth, Porthmeor and Carbis Bay at St Ives, Newquay's Great Western Beach, Porthtowan Beach on the North Cornwall coast or Trevone Bay at Padstow.

Visit the Eden Project

The most popular Cornwall attraction is the Eden Project. Boasting wondrous domes (and flowers and plants from around the world) it’s just a few minutes drive from Deerpark. Discover an outdoor adventure here too - with zip wires, climbing frames and much more. The Eden Project is open all year round.

  • Surf Fistral Beach

    Surf Fistral Beach

    Cornwall is synonymous with surfing and there’s nowhere more famous than Fistral beach at Newquay. The atmosphere is at its peak in summer but spring, autumn and even winter are great times to catch a wave. Other great surfing beaches in Cornwall include Porthtowan, Porthleven and Harlyn Beach at Padstow.

  • Go to jail

    Go to jail

    The brooding presence of Bodmin Jail rises from the mist on Bodmin Moor. Learn about life as an 18th Century prisoner in the cold dark cells before relaxing at the Governor’s Restaurant.

  • See daffodils in December

    See daffodils in December

    Cornwall lies on the eastern edge of the Gulf Stream. This makes it one of the warmest counties in the UK where daffodils can often bloom as early as in December. Book a cabin for Christmas at Deerpark and enjoy looking for the first tentative signs that nature is awakening. Perfect if you enjoy brisk country walks.

     

Climb to the highest point in Cornwall

Standing 420 metres above sea level, Brown Willy is the highest point in Cornwall. This ancient summit rises from the wild landscape of Bodmin Moor. And the view from the top takes in both the north and the south coast of Cornwall. Stunning.

  • Step into the past at Charlestown

    Step into the past at Charlestown

    Charlestown is a late Georgian port close to St. Austell. As you explore the streets it may seem strangely familiar. Many period dramas have been filmed here including Mansfield Park, Hornblower, Poldark and Dr. Who. The historic square rigger ships in the port only add to the sense you’re stepping into the past.

     

  • Travel the camel trail

    Travel the camel trail

    This walking route is an 18 mile corridor created from a disused railway line. Known as the Camel Trail it offers easy, largely flat and traffic-free access to the heart of the Cornish countryside. All the way from Bodmin to the north Cornwall coast. Plan your day around exploring the trail and uncover the natural spaces, pretty villages and notable landmarks along the way.

  • Visit Helford River

    Visit Helford River

    With over 50 miles of shoreline, the Helford Estuary has an abundance of sheltered coves and fascinating creeks. Visit the pretty shoreside villages and gardens or take a boat along the river and spot rare wildlife. In need of hearty refreshments? There's plenty of traditional Cornish pubs to stop at too.

Discover calm in a woodland valley

Looking for lodges in Cornwall? For the best of both worlds, stay at Forest Holidays Deerpark. It’s close to the best Cornwall attractions but still secluded enough for you to create your own cosy haven in the depths of the forest.

Just a few steps from your cabin (and personal outdoor hot tub) you can explore the woods around Deerpark, become Geology Rockhounds or explore the forest after dark. All with our friendly Forest Ranger.

Here you can also dive straight into some seriously awesome Cornwall activities. Hire bikes, enjoy archery or follow the discovery trail. Simply book in advance so they're ready and waiting for you when you come to Deerpark. Ideal if you need something lovely to look forward to.