21st January 2025
Whatever the weather, Cornwall is a county with a huge amount to offer. Famed for its beautiful landscapes that become even more atmospheric under cloud, it is also home to a wealth of indoor attractions offering idyllic experiences in every season.
If you are weighing up the best things to do in Cornwall when it rains, don’t let a little drizzle dampen your parade. Whether you can’t wait to embrace the elements on a coastal stomp, get creative in an arty workshop, or seek a little R&R treatment, here are some of our best drizzly day recommendations…
Go to the Cinema
There’s nothing quite like a giant screen and the roar of surround sound to really bring a movie to life. And, there’s no better excuse to enjoy a cinema outing than when it’s raining. If you are looking for things to do in Cornwall when it rains, why not embrace the opportunity to catch your favourite flick? In walking distance from us here at Pentire Hotel, Newquay Lighthouse Cinema awaits with all the latest blockbusters, indie favourites, theatre screenings, and more. Sit back and relax as the lights dim and the reel plays, escaping into a world of imagination while the storms roll on outside.
Visit Local Museums
One of the best things to do in Cornwall when it rains is of course visiting local museums. Cornwall is a county steeped in history and there are always fascinating tales waiting to be shared with those eager to learn. From local heritage to legends and lore, unearth some of the most captivating stories through exhibitions at the county’s numerous museums. Scattered around North Cornwall, Newquay Museum, Trenance Cottages, and Perranzabuloe Museum all offer interesting insights into the county’s yesteryears. You can also visit the National Trust’s Trerice, an Elizabethan manor at Kestle Mill, where period interiors reveal historic Cornish art, a 300-year-old clock, and more.
Explore Art Galleries
Cornwall is famous all over the world for its ethereal natural light. Drawing artists from near and far for centuries, it remains as highly regarded today as ever for its artistic qualities and provides an inspiring muse for both artists and admirers alike. For one of the best things to do in Cornwall when it rains, head over to one of the county’s many galleries. Art enthusiasts are particularly well-catered for in Newquay, with galleries such as North Coast Asylum, Saltwalls Gallery, and Whistlefish. Many galleries also host workshops, providing an unrivalled way to pass rainy hours and unleash creativity in style.
Enjoy Soothing Beauty Treatments
While we shouldn’t need to wait until the rain comes to treat ourselves to some well-deserved R&R, it certainly provides an unmissable opportunity. As rain clouds gather, turn your attention to the selection of beauty treatments at The Powder Room, located within the Pentire hotel, and enjoy moments of relaxation to cherish. Whether you’d like to take a dip in the heated pool, indulge in beauty treatment, or soothing massage, our range of hotel facilities ensures there is something for you. Simply settle in, relax, and embrace the pace of the rainy day.
Try a Pottery Class
For one of the most memorable things to do in Cornwall when it rains, try your hand at a new skill. Promising a wheel-y good time, dabbling at pottery while the rain patters on the window is a truly dreamy way to pass the time. Give the idea a spin and sign up to guided classes with one of the town’s expert potters, such as Tor Pottery Works, Wedge Studio, and The Punk Potter Studio. Whether you fall in love with the craft or simply end up with a wonderful handmade souvenir to take home with you, you are sure to chase the dark skies away.
Go Underwater
When thinking of things to do in Cornwall when it rains, perhaps heading underwater doesn’t come to mind. Not literally, of course. Offering an incredible look into life below the waves and the species that thrive within our blue planet, Cornwall’s aquariums have plenty to shell-ebrate. Just over a mile from Pentire Hotel, Newquay’s Blue Reef Aquarium teems with magical marine life, from dwarf caimans to loggerhead turtles to blacktip reef sharks. Meanwhile, just along the coast, Padstow Lobster Hatchery is at the centre of conservation efforts to support Cornish crustaceans and invites visitors to learn about their vital work to protect the beloved European Lobster. You may even see some baby lobsters ready to be released too!
Book a Rainy Day Retreat
Rain or shine, the Pentire Hotel is the ultimate cosy Cornish escape. After a day exploring Cornwall’s indoor treasures, return to the comfort of your room, relax in our heated pool, or enjoy a delicious meal or drink in our in-house restaurant and bar. With stunning views from a selection of our ocean-facing rooms to watch the storms bubble above the Atlantic and warm, friendly hospitality, our seaside hotel is the perfect base for any adventure, no matter the weather.
Book your stay at the Pentire Hotel today and plan your dream retreat. Amongst our collection of comfortable rooms, we also have dog-friendly rooms so your pup can stay cosy and dry too.
