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Things To Do in May Half Term in Cornwall.

May is a great time for your Cornwall holidays, especially during May half term. There is a lot going on in Cornwall, from fun family-friendly shows to exciting garden trails. Here are a few suggestions for what to do over May half term in Cornwall.

Outdoor Things to Do in May Half Term in Cornwall.

Fingers crossed, the weather is usually pretty gorgeous in May. The average temperature is around 14 degrees, with an average of only nine days’ rainfall (trust us, that is good for the south west). So, May half term is the perfect time to get outside and explore Cornwall’s beautiful paths and subtropical gardens.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan has a special treat in store this half term. Join them for Heligan Wild Week, where the family gets to pick a tribe, create a headdress, then take part in all sorts of wild adventures. They also offer a relaxed session for guests with additional needs or who may prefer a quieter adventure.

Expect lots of fun trails, treasure hunts and outdoor activities from the National Trust in Cornwall, too. Keep an eye on their website for programme updates.

A woman strolls through a lush garden, happily walking her dog at The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, a great thing to do in May Half Term in Cornwall.

May Half Term Visitor Attractions in Cornwall.

The fabulous National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth has a packed events programme for kids. Their exhibitions really are world-class and a must-see on your holidays in Cornwall.

The museum also runs a series of special rockpool workshops during the May holidays. Book onto a Rockpool Explorers workshop or craft session or take the rockpool trail around the galleries.

May half term at the Eden Project sees Aardman’s hit animated series, Lloyd of the Flies, taking over the gardens and biomes. Other attractions to look out for include Newquay Zoo and Paradise Park in Hayle, which are all popular half-term days out.

Exhibitions this May Half Term in Cornwall.

Tate St Ives runs a year-round programme of family-friendly events, including fun sessions for toddlers. May half term also sees the launch of a collaborative drop-in pottery workshop with Studio Leach. Open to visitors of all ages, participants can contribute their decorations made in the workshop to three hand-thrown pots that will be fired and put on display. If your family prefers to make their own works of art, look out for special events and workshops at the excellent Leach Pottery in St Ives. The museum and exhibitions are definitely worth exploring too.

Over the peninsula, Penzance’s lovely Penlee House Museum and Gallery hosts a wonderful range of exhibitions covering topics from authors to climate. Again, check out any events for younger art enthusiasts over the holidays.

Exterior of the iconic Penlee Museum in Cornwall, a great thing to do in May Half Term in Cornwall.

May Half Term Shows in Cornwall.

A trip to the wonderful Minack Theatre is on many people’s Cornwall holiday list. During May half term, you can catch Myths and Monsters, where kids can learn about the heroes and monsters of ancient Greece. The theatre is also open for visitors at other times, so you can explore backstage and learn more about the unique venue’s fascinating history.

Does May half term sound like a good time for your Cornwall holiday? There is certainly plenty going on in this part of the world! Take a look at our Last Minute Escapes Page and book your action-packed May stay.

Aerial view of the Minack Theatre, perched on a cliff with scenic coastlines, a great thing to do in May Half Term in Cornwall.

Meet The Author.

As Business Development Director at Cornish Escapes, Emma plays a strategic role in driving the growth of the business through the marketing and recruitment whilst also overseeing the performance of our sister company Handpicked Cottages.  Emma brings a wealth of industry insight to the business.  

With over 20 years of experience in the holiday rental market, Emma focuses on understanding evolving market trends and her goal is simple: to increase bookings for our owners through marketing while also strengthening the visibility and reputation of our brands. 

Outside of work, Emma makes the most of Cornwall’s stunning coastline. Her favourite walk is the St Ives to Zennor route – a challenging trek, but one she says is always worth it for the views and a well-earned pint at The Tinner’s Arms. Passionate about the lifestyle Cornwall offers, Emma loves exploring the county with her two daughters, from discovering family-friendly days out to attending local events such as the St Ives Food Festival, where she enjoys sampling some of the very best Cornish food and drink. When it is time to relax, she can often be found at Newlyn Film House catching the latest film or sharing recommendations on the best theatre productions and live performances across Cornwall. 

Meet Emma, the Business Development Director at Cornish Escapes.

Cornish Holiday Cottages For May Half Term.

Fancy making the most of May half term with a relaxing Cornish getaway, even if it is just for a few days away? Browse our selection of fabulous short-stay properties perfect for a family escape. Whether you’re after a cosy cottage by the beach or a spacious retreat in the countryside, we have something for everyone.