12 Things to Do in Cornwall When It Rains (For Adults)
Rain might change your plans, but it doesn’t need to ruin them. Cornwall is packed with exciting, relaxing and unique things to do, even when the weather isn’t at it’s best.
When the skies turn grey, Cornwall turns up the charm. Whether you’re soaking in a hot tub, swinging a golf club under cover, or sipping wine in a hilltop vineyard, there’s plenty to do that doesn’t rely on sunshine.
Here’s our ultimate list of 12 adult-friendly rainy day activities in Cornwall, complete with the best nearby places to stay so you can turn a wet day into an unforgettable one.
Tintagel Castle in the Mist OR RAIN
Few places are as magical in the rain as Tintagel Castle. The swirling mist and crashing waves make this legendary site feel like a real life Arthurian tale. Explore the dramatic cliffside ruins, then warm up in one of the village’s charming cafés. the added benefit of visiting in the rain is that you will have the entire place to yourself. If you really must take shelter then visit King Arthurs Great Halls located in the village of Tintagel.
WHERE TO STAY | The Camelot Castle Hotel – Just a short walk away, with moody sea views and a historic atmosphere to match the legend.
Play Covered Padel Tennis at Seaspaces Hotel
LOCATION | Seaspace Hotel Newquay
Seaspaces Hotel in Newquay now has covered padel tennis courts, making it one of the only places in Cornwall where you can enjoy an outdoor sport while staying dry. You can also make the most of the other facilities at Seaspace, including a gym, indoor pool , restaurant and cafe.
WHERE TO STAY | Seaspaces Hotel Stay where you play. Modern, social, and designed for active travellers who love design and lifestyle vibes. It is also an apartment hotel and has all of the conveniences of staying at home.
Wine Tasting Cornish Wines at The Scarlet Hotel
LOCATION | Scarlet Hotel Mawgan Porth
The Scarlet Hotel offers an elegant, adults only escape where you can sip on some of Cornwall’s finest wines. Their curated wine list champions local producers, and the sea-view lounges make for a serene experience.
We were shocked and surprised at just how good the local wines were and it definitely is worth doing even if it is not raining outside.
The wine tasting is held daily at 4 pm, these hour-long sessions cost £30 per person and cover some of the best Cornish wines.
Prefer a full vineyard experience? Head to Camel Valley Vineyard near Bodmin for an indoor tour and tasting of their world-renowned sparkling wines. It's one of Cornwall’s top wine experiences.
WHERE TO STAY | The Scarlet Hotel – make the most of the luxury spa facilities.
Catch a Show at Hall for Cornwall
LOCATION | TRURO
The beautifully restored Hall for Cornwall offers top tier theatre, comedy, and live music. On a rainy evening, it’s the perfect cultural escape. The shows can get booked out in advance so it is best to check on the Hall for Cornwall website to see what is available.
WHERE TO STAY | The Alverton Hotel – A grand, 4-star historic hotel just a short walk from the theatre, perfect for a refined city break.
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to slow down and indulge in some spa luxury. Cornwall has a host of luxury spas which are the perfect place to relax and unwind come rain or shine. Some of our favourites are listed below. For a full list of Cornwalls best spas you can read our full guide.
SPAS & WHERE TO STAY
🛁 The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth – Eco luxury with cliff-top hot tubs and sea views. Adults only and unforgettable.
🛁 St Michaels Resort, Falmouth – Stylish beachside spa with thermal rooms and hydrotherapy pool.
🛁 Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa, Newquay – Modern and great for couples, with fantastic value and located right next to the world famous Fistral beach.
Halwyn Driving Range
LOCATION | CRANTOCK
Rain doesn’t stop play at Halwyn Driving Range, thanks to covered bays. Practice your swing, grab a coffee, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon under shelter. The recently opened driving range serves cold drinks and delicious food. It also has a variety of games and modes that are great to play with a group of friends.
WHERE TO STAY | Tolcarne Beach Hotel - Incredible beach views in the heart of Newquay.
Discover Art at Tate St Ives
LOCATION | ST IVES
The world famous Tate St Ives showcases the very best of modern and contemporary British art and is well worth visiting. Entry tickets cost £14 per adult and you will be assigned an entry time so it is best to book as soon as possible online.
WHERE TO STAY | The Tregenna Castle Hotel – Overlooking St Ives Bay, with woodland walks and views that are magical in any weather.
Tour a Distillery or Brewery
Warm up from the inside with a local drink and behind the-scenes tour. There are a variety of local brewerys in Cornwall and we’ve picked some of the best for you to discover.
TOP TOURS & WHERE TO STAY
🍸 Tarquin’s Gin School, Wadebridge | STAY at Molesworth Arms, a cosy pub hotel in the heart of town.
🍺 St Austell Brewery | STAY at The Pier House, just around the corner and right on the harbour.
🍏 Healey’s Cyder Farm, near Newquay | STAY at Lewinnick Lodge, with stylish rooms overlooking the cliffs.
Go Underground at Carnglaze Caverns
LOCATION | LISKEARD
Head beneath the rain at Carnglaze Caverns, a former slate mine with underground lakes and eerie acoustics. It’s chilly and dry all year round. The Carnglaze Caverns is one of Cornwalls hidden gems and is worth discovering during your time in Cornwall.
WHERE TO STAY | The Liskeard Tavern by Greene King Inns – Affordable, central, and just a short drive from the caverns.
Watch a Film at a Boutique Cinema
When its too wet to explore Cornwalls magical coastline or relax on a beach, then head to one of Cornwalls many indie cinemas. Cornwalls Cinemas are cosy, affordable, and full of character.
BEST CINEMAS & WHERE TO STAY
🎥 The Plaza, Truro | STAY at Hotel VARA, walkable and friendly.
🎥 Lighthouse Cinema, Newquay | STAY at The Headland Hotel, luxury with sea views.
🎥 The Regal, Redruth | STAY at Penventon Park Hotel, a Georgian manor with a full spa.
Visit The Eden Project (St Austell)
Yes, it’s partly outdoors — but the massive indoor biomes at the Eden Project are the perfect rainy-day escape. Wander through the rainforest, grab a sustainable lunch, and enjoy world-class exhibits — all while staying dry.
WHERE TO STAY | YHA Eden Project – Eco-friendly glamping pods on site! Or opt for The Cornwall Hotel & Spa for something more luxurious nearby.
Take a Pottery or Craft Workshop
Cornwall can sometimes feel isolated from the rest of the UK and as such has developed a strong culture of crafts people and artists, of which many open their studios for rainy-day visitors.
IDEAS
Pottery painting at Starglazers in Falmouth
Into The Blue Jewellery-making in St Ives
Bryluen Botanicals Candle workshop in St Ives
WHERE TO STAY | Artist Residence Cornwall (Penzance) – Eclectic, artsy boutique hotel in a Georgian townhouse.