You’re never far from a fun attraction in Newquay. Besides the beaches, of which there are an abundance, there are plenty of other things to do to keep everyone entertained. Here are eight of the top attractions in Newquay, which range from coasteering, to going to the zoo.
VISIT THE AQUARIUM
From reef sharks to giant octopi, the aquarium has plenty to see and much more to learn about – they do a huge amount of conservation work both coastally and in the centre itself. Geared towards an educational experience, the Blue Reef Aquarium emulates a range of habitats which harbour creatures such as crocodiles, in addition to exotic fish which can be seen via a walk-through underwater tunnel. It’s one of the top rainy day attractions in Newquay for both kids and adults alike.
Go Coasteering
Coasteering is the subtle art of throwing yourself off high rocks into deep pools of dark blue water, then scrambling along to the next jumping spot to do it all over again. It’s a seriously fun outdoor activity, but in order to mitigate risks, always book with a guide – someone who knows the area well, along with all the safest spots. You’ll be provided with helmets and bouyancy aids too. And adrenaline doesn’t discriminate on age either; it’ll be a memorable day for both adventurous kids and adventurous adults alike!
Go to Trerice House
Step back in time on a visit to this exquisite Elizabethan manor house and garden. You can book a tour around the house to see its full period features in all their glory, and learn about the interesting history of this stately home. Children are invited to play dress-up, with a range of period costumes to try on. Extensive grounds offer plenty of space to play, or relax with a book, and might be a nice way to spend a sunny afternoon. There’s a cafe selling hot and cold drinks plus light bites, and the shop sells all sorts of lovely trinkets. Trerice House is only a 15 minute drive from Newquay.
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is actually a street food market in the heart of Newquay, offering a wide selection of delicious food and drink from several different vendors. There’s lots of choice, from burgers to nachos, to hot fresh shellfish. And, if you need to rehydrate, do it the fun way: there’s always a cocktail or two to choose from in addition to a wide range of Cornish gins and beers.
Go to the zoo
Perhaps topping of the list of attractions in Newquay is Cornwall’s largest zoo. Home to hundreds of species of animals large and small, it’s a brilliant all-day activity, and a great way to keep the little ones entertained. Much of the zoo is geared towards an educational experience and there’s lots of room to run around at designated play areas. Even better, Newquay Zoo is within walking distance of the town, so you can leave the car behind if you’re staying nearby
Take a steam train at Lappa Valley
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy the full steam train experience on one of the oldest train track beds in Cornwall. Besides steam train rides, there’s loads of other things to do at this fabulous attraction. Paddle a canoe on the boating lake at East Wheal Rose, take your toddler through the maze to learn about the high pressure steam engine’s inventor Richard Trevithick, or have a go at Crazy Golf. If you fancy a walk, Lappa Valley has its a nature trail that follows the Great Western Railway Embankment – climb up the hills to see picturesque views of the track – and don’t forget to bring the dog along.
Visit Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre
Get up close and personal in the cockpit of real fighter jets at the Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre. A fun day out for all the family, including the dog, this museum-exhibition centre provides indoor and outdoor exhibits including a flight simulator. There’s also guided tours of each aircraft, and a cafe to relax in afterwards.
Take a sea safari
If you’re up for more of an adventure, a Newquay Sea Safari experience could be for you. Either hop on a boat to spot dolphins and porpoises, or go for un underwater experience with a snorkelling tour. You’ll certainly see seals and seabirds galore either way. It’s an unforgettable immersive nature experience and offers a novel way to seeing the beautiful coastline.
If you fancy staying in Newquay so you’re as close as possible to all these great things to do, we offer a wide range of holiday cottages, homes and apartments throughout the year.
