Unusual Things to Do in Cornwall

Cornwall’s more unusual attractions tend to cluster around the county’s specific oddities - its underground geology, its mining history, its position at the far end of the country, and its long involvement in folklore and maritime trade.

Carnglaze Caverns near St Neot are a series of hand-cut slate caverns extending into the hillside, with an underground lake fed by a stream. The largest chamber has been used for concerts and events. The blue-green water is clear enough to see the bottom. The tour is usually self-guided, with guided tours possible in high season.

The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle describes its collection of witchcraft-related artefacts as the world’s largest - tools, ritual objects, manuscripts, and folk magic items assembled over decades. The collection is serious rather than theatrical, and the building’s position in the narrow Boscastle valley adds to the atmosphere.

Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm near Truro runs guided cider experiences that need booking, alongside a Cornish countryside museum and animal-feeding sessions. It operates as a working farm and produces one of Cornwall’s most widely sold ciders.

Looe Island Nature Reserve sits a mile offshore from Looe and is managed by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. Visits are only possible on organised seasonal boat trips from East Looe, which are booked in advance. Seals haul out on the rocks at low tide, and trips run subject to weather and sea conditions.

Skinners Brewery and Tapyard in Truro runs pre-booked brewery tours that finish with a tasting, at one of Cornwall’s best-known producers. The Tapyard bar is on site.

Cornwall Gold near Redruth is a free-entry visitor attraction with gold panning, pottery painting, and the historic Tolgus Tin Mill on site.