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. Guided tours run daily.

The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle holds the world’s largest collection of witchcraft-related artefacts - 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 tours of the cider production process, a Cornish countryside museum, and animal-feeding sessions, with tastings throughout. 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. Seasonal boat trips from Looe provide access to the walking trails, grey seal colonies, and seabird nesting sites. Landing is limited and trips run subject to sea conditions.

Skinners Brewery and Tapyard in Truro offers tasting sessions and brewery talks at one of Cornwall’s best-known producers. The Tapyard bar and kitchen runs alongside.

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