7+ things to do in Cornwall when it’s raining

If you’ve been in the UK recently you know the weather isn’t exactly playing ball at the moment. The South West in particular hasn’t had a single day without any rain since the start of 2026. That is a LOT of rain. There have been storms battering our coastlines and causing both cliffs and trees to collapse all over Cornwall. Every day we are dealing with flooding, road closures and SO. MUCH. MUD. But all is not lost! Cornwall is definitely thought of as more of a warm weather destination but believe it or not there are still things you can do in Cornwall when it’s raining. Below are just some ideas to keep yourselves occupied until the sun shines on our little paradise once more.

Things to do in Cornwall when it’s raining:

Learn something new at a museum

There are many museums across Cornwall, showcasing everything from our maritime history to our mining heritage (more on that in a bit). But even if museums aren’t usually your thing, then I recommend trying Bodmin Jail. Using a mix of 4D immersive storytelling and more traditional museum exhibits, it tells the story of the criminals of Cornwall. Or check out a paranormal ghost tour/horror cinema evening for something spookier! Get tickets here.

Admire flora at The Eden Project

If you want to feel like you are in the Mediterean heat even in the height of winter, visit the Eden Project. The 2 huge biomes in the centre of the botanical gardens are home to thousands of plant species. And the temperature is the kind you would expect from the world’s biggest green house. There’s a lovely cafe on site where you can grab an ice cream and pretend it’s summer. Grab tickets here.

Go below with Geevor Tin Mine

Cornwall has an extensive mining history, with tin and copper being mined since the Bronze Age. One of the best ways to learn about it is to head underground yourself. And the best place to do it is at Geevor Tin Mine. Situated on one of my favourite stretches of coastline, here you can follow in the footsteps of Cornish miners. It’s a great day out for kids and adults alike. Don’t miss the Counthouse Cafe which does an excellent vegan brekkie with sweeping views.

Have a Spa Day

For something a bit more relaxing, why not book yourself in for a spa day at one of Cornwall’s best hotels? We recently stayed at the Bedruthan in Mawgan Porth, where I had the best massage of my life. Some others which come highly recommended are The Scarlet Hotel, St Michael’s Resort and The Headland Hotel. There are packages to suit all needs and budgets.

Try VR or an Escape Room

For the competitive amongst us (it’s me, hi!) there’s no better way to spend a few hours than by puzzling through something, together or against your other half. Truro’s Player Ready has a variety of games including zombie shooters, arcade games and virtual escape rooms. If physical escape rooms are more your thing, or you are in a bigger group, there are a few escape rooms to choose from: Enigma Escape in Truro, Escape Time in St Ives and Locked In in Camborne all have terrific reviews and cater to all abilities.

Cosy up in a pub

Ok so not exactly an activity, but I could easily spend a whole day in a great pub. Give me a roaring fire, a pint and a friendly bunch of locals and that’s me happy. Some of my favourite cosy spots are The Hole in the Wall (Bodmin), The Blisland Inn (Blisland), The Ship Inn (Porthleven), and The Blue Anchor (Helston). Keep an eye on their socials as well to see if you can catch some live music in the evening.

Go for a hike

My final suggestion is to embrace the rain and go for a walk anyway. The famous saying goes that there is no bad weather, only bad clothing. Living down here you realise quickly that if you are always waiting for the perfect day to go somewhere, you may be waiting a while! So get those wellies on and take a wander through the woods. Or pull your hood up and brave the beach – you’ll often find it empty and all the more beautiful for it!

A rainy day (or week) doesn’t have to ruin your holiday. I hope you find these suggestions of things to do in Cornwall when it’s raining helpful. Let me know if you have any other ideas, as I’d love to hear them! x