The best free things to do in Cornwall

They say the best things in life are free and we couldn’t agree more. Nobody wants to have to shell out for MORE things whilst on holiday…That’s why we’re all about the no hidden extras. Atlantic Reach is maximum fun for maximum value!

We’ve got plenty on site that’s free to use if you holiday with us, like our indoor and outdoor pools, Pirate Pete’s soft play area, tennis courts, pitch ’n’ putt and football golf. But there’s also plenty of freebies across Cornwall to enjoy – you just need to know where to look.

We’ve rounded up our favourite freebies in the county here. There’s so much on offer that you’ll struggle to fit it all into one visit!

Go for a sea swim

Leaving Cornwall without going in the sea should be a crime. There are lots of pretty, sheltered coves that are safe to swim in nearby, lots of which are also next to free parking areas.

If you’re looking for a more energetic dip and want to challenge yourself, there are plenty of surf schools that can show you how to hang ten, plus paddleboarding, jet skiing, kayaking and kite surfing are also firm favourites on our shores.

Walk along a Cornish coast path

Deserted beaches, secluded islands, stunning local wildlife. Cornwall’s dramatic coastal scenes are incredible no matter the weather and there are miles of beaches and coastal paths that stretch across this beautiful landscape that cost nothing to explore. See our favourite ones nearby here.

Discover Cornwall’s mining heritage

Not only is Tolgus Tin Mill the only surviving mill of its kind in Cornwall, it’s completely free to visit and explore. Open daily during the summer months, it has Cornish heritage machinery on display from the 1860s and is a great day out to learn the dramatic story of Cornwall’s mining past.

Cycle the Camel Trail

This famous path follows an old railway track alongside the river Camel and passes through some of the most spectacular countryside in the South West.

If you’re with the little ones, start at either Padstow or Wadebridge and cycle or walk five miles along the estuary. It’s completely flat and, if you want to put your hand in your pockets, there are goodies to be found at both ends, with picturesque lunch spots, quintessential Cornish pubs and cute afternoon tea rooms for a quick pit spot before the return journey.

Go rock pooling

For many, the feeling of nostalgia will come rushing back with this next freebie. You simply cannot visit Cornwall without discovering some of the mini sea creatures that dwell in our rock pools at low tide. All you need is a bucket and a net and you’re good to go.

See how Cornish ice cream is made

Not many people are privy to what we’re about to tell you, but Roskilly’s ice cream farm on the Lizard is completely free for the whole family to enter! Not only can you watch how one of Cornwall’s famous delicacies is made, the the little ones can meet the farm animals and wander through the valley meadows. Just make sure you’ve got a couple of pennies with you so you can try the end product!

Explore Truro

For the architecture enthusiasts amongst you, the terraces and townhouses along Walsingham Place and Lemon Street in Cornwall’s capital are said to be “the finest examples of Georgian architecture west of the city of Bath.” 19th century Neo-Gothic Truro Cathedral is a particular highlight and its choir is among the most renowned in the country.

Watch a Cornish sunset

We might be biased, but you just can’t beat a Cornish sunset. Fiery and dramatic, rays reflect off the ocean all around our coastlines and create the most magical seascapes. The entrance fee to nature’s greatest show? Zilch. Even better is that it happens all year round – you might just have to wear a few more layers in winter.

Fly a kite

You’ve already read that our beaches and coastlines stretch for miles. Add a kite into the mix and you’ve got hours of fun and games all for free (so long as you already own said kite, of course).

Visit Heartlands in Pool

State-of-the-art exhibitions, climb-on sculptures, gardens of real diversity and a giant adventure playscape for kids…all completely free.

Heartlands is free visitor attraction and World Heritage Site Gateway near Redruth. With swathes of green outdoor space for warm, sunny days and ever-curious indoor space when it’s wet, it’s all-year round, all-weather entertainment for anyone and everyone. Go see, go play, go explore for, you guessed it, free.

We’ve got lots of top local tips like these and more when you stay with us. Just ask our friendly team at the check in desk! Which ones will you try out first?