on 30/01/2025
Cornwall is a fantastic and easy destination to get away to for families during February half-term, offering a mix of free and budget-friendly activities, exciting day-out suggestions, and family-friendly beaches that welcome dogs. The main bonus of opting for a staycation is that you can have all the home comforts and switch off immediately. There'll be no surprises! Plus, plenty of the accommodations offered on our site are self-catering, making it an even budget friendlier holiday. Here’s a carefully created, week-long itinerary packed with adventure, exploration, and cosy moments- for whether the sun is shining, or not!
Morning: Arrive and settle in. If arriving early, head straight to Holywell Bay, a stunning beach with sand dunes perfect for kids to run wild.
Afternoon: Take a coastal walk towards Polly Joke (1.5 miles) and spot seals!
Evening: Grab fish & chips from Rick Stein’s Fistral and enjoy a cosy night in.
Morning: Explore the Rainforest & Mediterranean Biomes at the Eden Project – warm, tropical, and full of interactive fun.
Afternoon: Book a slot for the seasonal ice skating rink. Kids love it!
Evening: Head to Sam’s Diner in Par for an American-style family meal. ???? Cost: Under 5s go free; family tickets available.
Morning: Visit Truro Cathedral & Lemon Street Market – a charming indoor market with indie shops and bakeries.
Afternoon: Head to Healeys Cyder Farm (free entry). Kids love the tractor ride through the orchards, meeting the farm animals, and watching how cider is made.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Old Ale House, which has a relaxed atmosphere and local food. ???? Tractor rides/tasting experiences are extra but affordable! Day
Morning: Head to Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth, a sandy, safe beach ideal for kids and dogs. Try rock pooling or a winter paddle!
Afternoon: Explore Pendennis Castle (£), a brilliant English Heritage site with stunning sea views, family trails, and cannon displays.
Evening: Cosy up in a beachside café like Gylly Beach Café for hot chocolates.
Morning & Afternoon: Discover the Lost Gardens of Heligan, which has muddy woodland trails, farm animals, and the famous Giant’s Head sculpture. Kids will love the rope bridge over the jungle valley!
Evening: Return for a relaxed movie night after a busy day. ???? Under 5s go free; family tickets available.
Morning: Explore St Ives – wander the harbour, visit the Tate St Ives (free for kids), or stop for a Cornish pasty lunch.
Afternoon: Let the kids and dogs run free at Porthkidney Sands, one of the best dog-friendly beaches year-round.
Evening: Wrap up with a cosy pub meal at The Sloop Inn.
Morning: Before heading home, take one last beach walk at Crantock, a wide, family-friendly beach where kids can play in the dunes.
Visiting with your four legged family members? Here are the top dog-friendly beaches you should add to your list this February.
Holywell Bay – Sand dunes & shallow waters
Gyllyngvase Beach – Gentle waves, rock pools & nearby cafés
Porthkidney Sands – Huge open space, great for dogs & kids
Crantock Beach – Ideal for a final family walk, more rugged
Perranporth Beach – Large beach, dog-friendly pubs nearby
Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay – Walk through the underwater tunnel, see sharks, rays, and playful seals. Perfect for little explorers!
National Maritime Museum, Falmouth – Interactive exhibits, pirate history, and fun family activities.
Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Charlestown – Discover real-life shipwreck treasures, including gold, coins, and artifacts from beneath the sea.
Tate St Ives & Barbara Hepworth Museum – Kids can get creative with art workshops while parents enjoy world-class exhibitions.
Bodmin Jail Experience – An immersive journey into Cornwall’s history with interactive storytelling and spooky dungeons.
The Eden Project – Rainforest and Mediterranean biomes mean you can enjoy the tropics, even in February!
Geevor Tin Mine, Pendeen – A hands-on mining experience where kids can pan for gold and explore underground tunnels.
Newquay Trampoline Park & Soft Play – Burn off energy with trampolines, climbing walls, and a giant soft play area.
Whether you’re braving the beaches or enjoying one of these rainy-day activities , Cornwall is the perfect half-term getaway for families. Happy holidays! ☔
