Spring in Cornwall’s the best … but how do you think we get these lush green fields and brilliant blooms? That’s right … a lot of rain. Whether you don’t mind a bit of mizzle or can’t stand the idea of wellies, we’ve collated a list of our five favourite things to do in a downpour.
5. Get togged up and go out for a walk anyway
Too wet? Giss on! (That’s Cornish dialect for “Don’t talk rubbish!”).
We reckon that you can have a lovely walk in Cornwall even in the rain. One of our favourite wet weather locations is the Kennall Vale between Truro and Falmouth – with the ruins of a gunpowder factory peppering this beautiful wooded valley, it’s so serene. Think soft patter of rain on leaves, big heavy drops making their way down through the branches, the river whispering over boulders and stones … beautifully atmospheric.
So get your togs on and stomp out for an adventure! Plus – there’s nothing like getting into a warm cosy house out of the rain afterwards.
4. Heartlands, Redruth
Cornwall’s cultural playground is the perfect wet-weather day out. A chance to relax, wander around the World Heritage Site exhibitions, see artists at work and eat.
If it’s too wet and windy for the Diaspora Gardens and the Adventure Playground, there’s heaps indoors to keep everyone entertained. With a mining-themed soft play area, informative Visitor Centre and the opportunity to wander in and out of their resident artists’ studios and see their inspiration at work.
And – all retail profit goes back into ensuring Heartlands can keep going – as a social enterprise and a not-for-profit charity, you’re supporting something deeply rooted in Cornwall.
3. The Eden Project
Sure, there’s the carpark and the walk down to the biomes – but once you’re inside the biomes, there’s a whole world to discover in each.
Inside the world’s largest greenhouse, you can escape from the rain in to the world’s largest indoor rainforest! There’s a waterfall, canopy walk, orchid exhibit and plenty of educational and interactive activities for kids to get involved in.
For dodging a downpour on a wet weekend, the Eden Project’s a great shout.
2. Get in the sea!
If you’re going to get wet anyway … you might as well get wet properly!
With the longest coastline of any county, Cornwall’s got over 300 beaches ready and waiting to be braved and explored.
Whether you’re hardy and going in in your swimmers, or getting properly prepared with wetsuit, boots, gloves and hood, we salute you.
1. Go to the pub!
You literally can’t go wrong with this. Dry – check. Company – check. Entertainment – check. Pints – DEFINITE check.
And here at the Bowgie Inn we’ve got you covered – although you probably won’t want to sit out in our beer garden in the middle of a downpour, we have a welcoming bar and lounge area that’s perfect for whiling away a grizzly evening with family and friends.
We’ve got the best stocked bar in the West, amazing pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere – what more could you wish for? Come on down and settle in for an evening – there’s a special satisfaction in listening to the rain lashing against the windows while you’re tucked up with your nearest and dearest.