So, you’ve woken up to a gloriously sunny morning in Cornwall, grabbed your flip flops, sun hat, a bottle of suncream and you’re all set to leave for a day on the coast, but Cornwall’s unpredictable weather has decided to be just that… Cue those lovely rain showers!

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with some great activities to do when our little county is trying to rain on your summertime parade… and ALL within a 35 minute drive of the hotel!

Lanhydrock House and Gardens – less than a 5 minute drive

Just a four minute drive away you’ll find our close neighbour, Lanhydrock House and Gardens. Although the gardens may be a little soggy in the rain, the rich history surrounding the beautiful house, dating all the way back to 1621 when it was first build by the Robartes family, will certainly keep you occupied for at least an afternoon. Learn about the Victorian family who lived there, the tragic fire of 1881, how the great house fared during the World Wars and how it came to fall into the care of the National Trust in 1953. (There’s also two lovely cafés for afternoon tea and a slice of victoria sponge!)

Bodmin Jail – less than a 10 minute drive

This attraction has had a complete remake over the past few years, and it’s now open for self-guided walks, private tours and even paranormal tours and events (if you’re brave enough to take a look at the darker side of history!). Originally built in 1779, the Jail has had a fascinating history over the years. Did you know that during WW1 it was the stronghold that housed the Crown Jewels, State Papers and the Domesday Book? There’s also even a hotel with a restaurant, cafe and gift shop – just remember to book your ticket in advance! If you want to know more about the experience, head on over to their website.

Eden Project – 15 minute drive

Although you’d probably think of The Eden Project as an outside garden, there’s actually an awful lot to do inside at The Eden Project. Home to two gigantic biomes housing micro-climates, it’s both an enjoyable and educational experience. In the Mediterranean biome, you can explore the temperate climates and biodiversity of landscapes from South Africa, California and Western Australia. Or if you’ve been missing holidays abroad and prefer things a little hotter, you can head to the Tropical Rainforest biome which houses the world’s largest indoor rainforest complete with canopy walkway and waterfall. A short walk from the biomes is the Core Building, which is based on the structure of a sunflower’s seed head. Amongst other things, it houses innovative and boundary-pushing works of art and science, providing a number of interactive activities to get stuck into or to simply stand back and admire. There is also a number of lovely cafes and restaurants dotted around the site.

Pencarrow House – 15 minute drive

Tucked away just outside Wadebridge on the edge of the mysterious Bodmin Moor, Pencarrow House has been the family home of the Molesworth St Aubyns for over 500 years. Set in over 50 acres of gardens and woodlands, the beautiful Georgian architecture really does make this a stunning hidden gem – and the house itself is full of living history, with a wonderful collection of art and antiques you can see by going on a guided house tour. These are available every day apart from Fridays and Saturdays, with no need to pre-book – you can do that when you arrive. Pencarrow is not your usual country home, with secret passageways, portraits with eyes that follow you and statues sporting top hats, it’s definitely one to add to your ‘must-visit’ list!

Blue Reef Aquarium – 35 minute drive

Who says you have to have a sunny day to enjoy the seaside?! The Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay is perfect for a rainy day – perched just above Towan beach, with lots of nearby parking, it’s home to 40 different naturally themed habitats, which host a staggering variety of marine life. From curious crustaceans to colourful corals, from local heroes like lobsters and blennies, to exotic sharks, octopi and turtles, you can make your way around the site ticking off the different creatures on the downloadable spotters guide. Top tip – don’t miss the ocean tank! It has an incredible see-through underwater walkway, so you can be surrounded by these beautiful creatures in motion.

Royal Cornwall Museum – 35 minute drive

Rainy day or not, this venue is another must-visit! With a range of temporary exhibitions to enjoy amongst the permanent galleries, there’s something for everyone to get interested in here. Fascinating art and objects document human life and creativity across history and around the globe. You can time travel by exploring exhibits such as archeological finds from the ancient Egyptians and Roman forts, and lose yourself in photographs documenting Cornwall’s fascinating mining history. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday and is situated in the centre of picturesque Truro, with many near-by cafes and restaurants to grab a bite to eat before or after your visit!

So there you have it, just a few ideas for some rainy day activities in Cornwall – and only a hop, skip and a jump away from us at Lanhydrock Hotel and Golf Club. Who says rain has to ruin all the fun?

The Lanhydrock Team x