LOCAL ACTIVITIES
WATER BASED ACTIVITIES
FishPass
For easy access to fantastic fishing in unrivalled surroundings, we recommend downloading the very user-friendly FISHPASS app. It lists enviable beats you’d not ordinarily be able to access across both Cornwall and Devon. Filter your search or have them all: wild brown trout, sea trout, salmon, grayling and coarse fishing.
Delphy Pool
Sauna, wood-fired hot tubs and wild swimming all year round…that’s if the free diving and spearfishing courses don’t take your fancy! A 20 minute drive from Boconnion in a beautiful disused quarry, this off-grid gem has gas-fired showers and a little cafe, but bring your own towels. Look out for the Twilight Swims and the Floating Breakfasts. See their calendars for availability. If you’re going as a group of 6+ contact Oli or Nicky and they might be able to organise you a private slot. See also Bespoke Experiences
Newquay Coasteering
Take the plunge and go on an adrenaline-fuelled adventure with Freddie and his team just 40 minutes away on the wild and expansive north coast. They’ll take you on cliff jumps, navigate you through dark smugglers’ caves, whirlpools and rock traverses for around 2.5hrs. Safety equipment and wetsuit provided. Swimmers aged 8+.
Prices from: £48pp
Aquapark at Adrenalin Quarry
If you’re looking for something one notch down from coasteering, Aquapark, situated in an old flooded quarry 30mins away, is your answer. Climb, jump, slide & bounce your way through their huge inflatable playground. Get wet on extreme trampolines, swings and monkey bars for a full 45 mins from £20pp. Open-water swimming is also available all year round and with Karting, Zip Wire, Giant Swing, Axe Throwing a shot walk away, why not make a day of it?! See also Theme Parks & Family Days Out
Fowey Boat Hire
“There is nothing — absolutely nothing — half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats…" and we know the perfect place. Morris will set you up on one or two of his small self-drive family dayboats on the Fowey Estuary for up to 7 people. With his incredible local knowledge he’ll create an itinerary for you based on the tides that day. Explore little creeks, drift past Daphne du Maurier’s house, watch the Fowey Regatta in style, or moor up for an evening drink watching the sun set. He can even supply a couple of rods so you can try your luck at a bass or mackerel…
Prices from £65 for 4 hours
Wavehunters Chartered Boat Trips and Safaris
Offering an incredible chartered safari experience off the north coast of Cornwall with durations ranging from 1hr to a full day, shared or private. Expect to see rugged coastlines, puffins, dolphins, seals and occasionally even whales. You can choose between a 10ft rib or a 10ft catamaran, both seating 12. For the longer trip, bring a picnic and your swimmers, your guide will take you to deserted beaches where you can bathe in the shallow waters.
George’s Surf School
An unrivalled surf school 30mins away offering private classes for up to 6 people. The instructors are young, fun and highly experienced. The exceptional coaches have been carefully selected for their ability to help build confidence in a beginner or stretch someone more advanced. We recommend those new to surfing book Polzeath Beach for your lesson as the waves are gentle and rolling and it is a long, gradual beach. George’s has an arrangement with Bustymoos on Polzeath who are able to supply you with any kit you might require.
Instagram: @georgessurfschool
Cornwall Swimming Horses
Tick something off your bucket list, and between May and September ride bareback across the beach and swim with horses in the sea. This 2-3 hour experience is tailored entirely to you and your ability, whether you’re a novice, advanced, or a family wanting to experience it together. It is well worth the hour drive. Tie it in with a visit to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, book a table for lunch at Argoe or explore St Michael’s Mount.
See also Horse Riding.
WALKS
If you are looking for a local, secure dog walking field, see Dog Walking / Sitters.
To organise a private guided hike with the fabulous Laura, see Wyld Grace Private Hikes.
Boconnion land is tenanted out to a sheep farmer and other guests may be staying on the Estate, therefore sadly we have to ask you to stay within the curtilage of your property. However with the Camel Trail and Bodmin Moor on our doorstep there are lots of fabulous local walks to explore:
A Walk from your Doorstep
Walk back up the main drive, turning right at the top (unless you’re staying at Lower Hill, in which case walk down out of your drive and immediately turn right). Walk down the lane towards Clerkenwater turning right just after the entrance to the Lower Hill drive (What3Words:twist.hills.skips) where you can take a public right of way over a (bridged) ford and up to the start of Copshorn Road where you will find a small car parking area and a network of footpaths, some connecting you to The Camel Trail. (What3Words: feel.maple.aura). A few other local walking spots are Shell, Lavethan and Cardinham Wood
Restormel Castle
Restormel Castle is a striking 13th-century circular fortress that reached its greatest splendor under Edward the Black Prince set on a peaceful hilltop overlooking the River Fowey. Visitors can explore its remarkably preserved ruins, enjoy panoramic countryside views, and soak up centuries of Cornish history followed by the best cream tea in the land at The Duchy Nursery
Lanhydrock
Lanhydrock is a short 10 minute drive from Boconnion. Gain free access to its extensive wooded grounds and riverside paths, or pay to access the imposing late-Victorian house and gardens, renowned for its beautifully preserved interiors and collection of magnolias and swathes of bluebells in Spring.
Bodmin Moor
To take in some wild Cornish scenery, it’s well worth the 40min drive to Roughtor (pronounced Rowtor). Park in the Roughtor Car Park and scramble over the huge granite boulders to the top of Cornwall’s second highest peak with far reaching views, known for spotting the mesmerising sight of a starling murmuration. Extend the walk and incorporate Cornwall’s highest tor, Brown Willy, standing at 420m with its many Bronze-age cairns.
For those with stamina, there’s also the brilliant 17 mile Cornish Skyline Loop which begins and ends at Jamaica Inn. The inn is famous for it’s portrayal in Daphne du Maurier’s gothic novel. Reward yourself with a quiet pint by the fire in the Smugglers’ Bar, or visit the Du Maurier Collection or Smuggles’ Museum.
The Camel Trail
For an even, level, buggy, wheelchair and bicycle-friendly walk it’s a short 5 minute drive to Hellandbridge car park. Amble beside the River Camel along the infamous Camel Trail through areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, west towards Wadebridge and on to Padstow stopping off at The Blisland en route, or east towards Wenfordbridge where the unbeatable Snail’s Pace Cafe beckons.
See also Cycling.
Treasure Trails
Cornish company Treasure Trails offers amazing self-guided adventures across the whole of the UK with a whopping 64 trails in Cornwall alone. Most are walked, a few by bike or by car. A brilliant way to discover the area, participants must solve a series of clues on local landmarks to discover a mystery's solution or a treasure's location. Each trail provides a fun, imaginative way for families and groups to explore a location from a new perspective. For all ages and abilities for £12.99.
iWalk Cornwall App
A brilliant app to plan is the free iWalk Cornwall with the ‘Dunmere, Penhargard and Bodmin Jail’ route going straight past the entrance to Boconnion. Maps can be purchased for £3.99 each and downloaded to your phone so that they work even with no mobile network coverage, but if you don’t want to purchase the map, click on ‘Walks Shop’, ‘Maps of Walks’, select a walk that interests you and all the information will be provided including an OS map of the route, length, gradient, pubs etc.
CYCLING
Bike Hire @ Explore My Bike
Right on the Camel Trail this brilliant local business happens to be the only bike hire company in Bodmin. Martin has a fleet of over 50 bikes of all shapes and sizes including a tandem, electric and mountain bikes and trailers for children. It’s a short drive from Boconnion, park at The Borough Arms, with its huge free car park and choose your bike for a half day or full day between March and November and peddle your way all the way to the Snail’s Pace Cafe to the east or Padstow to the west via Wadebridge.
Cardinham Woods
Cardinham Woods, the stalwart of Cornish cycling and just 15 minutes away, offers 12km of varied terrain that blends river crossings and thigh-burning climbs with moments of thrilling free-flow, hair-pins and cruisy sections made for soaking up the scenery, all for free (parking aside). Whether you’re sauntering along the family-friendly trails or veering onto the fast-flowing red routes, tackling the vertical ascent to Hell’s Teeth (rewarded with a thrillingly narrow downhill), it’s a great spot for riders of all abilities with the perfect cafe to refuel at the bottom.
Lanhydrock
Bring your bikes to explore 10km of purpose built trails winding through this National Trust estate’s woodland, including a skills area, cafe and children’s play area. There’s something for everyone, no matter your ability and once the parking’s covered, it’s free! See also, Walks, Houses & Gardens and Golf.
Camel Trail
The entire length of the Camel Trail is 18.3 miles, east to west along a disused railway track alongside the River Camel. Running from Wenfordbridge and it’s superb Snail’s Pace Cafe at the foothills of Bodmin Moor past Bodmin Jail on to Wadebridge all the way to Padstow. The east tends to be quieter, getting busier as you cycle west. There are breathtaking views across the Camel Estuary, an area of outstanding natural beauty. It is smooth, flat, traffic free and totally free, Hire your bike from Explore My Bike and join the trail at The Borough Arms outside Bodmin or cycle from Boconnion to Hellandbridge and join the trail there.
See also Walks
Old Hill Bike Park
Book hourly slots from £12pp (£8.50/children) open 7 days a week 10am to dusk and conveniently close, as in 2 minutes from, the St Kew Farm Shop and Cafe. This family-orientated bike park, just 20 minutes away, beckons beginners on balance bikes, and experts that want to do some white-knuckle Red Bull level jumps and ramps.
HORSE RIDING
Little Margate
In Cardinham Woods just 15 minutes away, this gem needs to be booked well in advance, particularly in the holidays. They offer schooling in their outdoor, floodlit sandschool with dressage markers and jumps, and great out rides through the woods. They are RDA approved and have a sweet selection of ponies and horses to suit any ability. Make sure to ask for one of their BHS qualified instructors.
Prices from £28pp for 30 mins
Polmartin
Not for the faint hearted, this is a riding school for accomplished riders. BHS approved, owned and run by Jane Jedwab who has dedicated years to perfecting her line of arab horses. Having often ridden on the big screen herself, she now trains actors and stunt men for film and many of her steeds are hero horses themselves.
Prices from £38pp for 1 hour
Min.age 12
Cornwall Swimming Horses
Tick something off your bucket list, and between May and September ride bareback across the beach and swim with horses in the sea. This 2-3 hour experience is tailored entirely to you and your ability, whether you’re a novice, advanced, or a family wanting to experience it together. It is well worth the hour drive. Tie it in with a visit to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, book a table for lunch at Argoe or explore St Michael’s Mount.
GOLF
The Lanhydrock Hotel & Golf Club
18-hole I Par 70 I 6108 yards
Lanhydrock’s course has over the years been beautifully shaped into the natural landscape, producing one of the best regarded and most accessible courses in Cornwall for golfers of all abilities, and it’s just 15 minutes away. There are many tree-lined fairways, some of which are quite tight but all in excellent condition. Not too many bunkers but beware of the water!
Click here to see Green Fees.
Call 01208 262570 to make a booking.
St Enedoc Golf Club
Church Course: 18 hole I Par 69 I 6299 yards
Holywell Course: 18 hole I Par 63 I 4082 yards
A Global Top 100 course, No.4 in the UK and…it’s right on your doorstep. The Church Course’s design by James Braid is particularly challenging, especially when those frisky Atlantic winds pick up. The club is friendly, the food is excellent, the scenery is staggering, and considering its world ranking, this bucket list item comes with a fairly reasonable price tag to boot!
Click here to see Green Fees.
Call 01208 863216 – Ext 1 to make a booking.
HOUSES & GARDENS
Thanks to its temperate climate, ericaceous (acidic) soil and sea air, Cornwall is full of magnificent gardens, abundant with rhododendrons, magnolias and camelias, spectacular in May, and verdant sub-tropical oases bursting with exotic plants that thrive nowhere else in the UK.
For rare access to exceptional private gardens, look at The National Garden Scheme, a UK charity that opens the door to these hidden treasures throughout the year, but predominantly in the summer, to raise money for nursing and health charities
Privately owned with no public access to their extraordinary 100 acre botanical gardens, bar a single weekend a year, The Tregothnan Estate opens its doors for charity just the once to showcase centuries-old Camellias, towering Magnolias and some of the largest Rhododendrons in the world, bursting into dramatic bloom.
See also Bespoke Experiences
Lanhydrock (15 mins)
A Jacobean National Trust house with an imposing gate house and vast grounds including herbaceous borders, a fabulous parterre and 900 acres of parkland with paths weaving their way along the banks of the River Fowey. Get a glimpse of life as a Victorian both ‘above’ and ‘below stairs’ and admire the plaster mouldings in the Long Gallery, our favourite room. Fabulous in May when there are swathes of bluebells and their well known collection of magnolias are in bloom.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens (1hr5)
The landscape at Tremenheere changed somewhat when Storm Goretti hit in 2026, decemating many of their ancient trees, but it still remains a staggeringly beautiful destination for art and garden lovers, particularly if exotic sub-tropicals are your thing. With far reaching views across to St Michael’s Mount and incredible art installations by local and emerging artists as well as world-renowned James Turrell known for his creations using light and space, and David Nash for his work using wood and shaping living trees.
Cotehele (50 mins)
A National Trust Tudor beauty famous for its spectacular spring daffodil festival in mid-March. With over 300 varieties carpeting the meadows, stunning displays inside the house and huge structural sculptures throughout the gardens, a spring visit is well worth it. Paired with their vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas, 12 acres of orchards with many rare apple tree varieties and grounds sweeping down to an old quay on the beautiful River Tamar, the gateway to the wider 1,300 acre estate crisscrossed with miles of footpaths, it’s well worth a visit.
Lost Gardens of Heligan (40 mins)
Tucked away in Pentewan near St Austell, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are a Victorian paradise restored from decades of neglect, once part of a grand 19th-century estate. They’re famed for their lush jungle with rope bridge, exotic plant collections, and the haunting Mud Maid and Giant’s Head sculptures emerging from the earth. In December the garden is transformed into a magical illuminated wonderland of lanterns, fairylights,immersive art and festive treats. Kew Gardens eat your heart out!
Eden Project (25 mins)
Rising from a reclaimed clay pit, people travel from all over the word to visit this bold environmental landmark which opened in 2001. Famous for its vast biomes showcasing Rainforests and the Mediterranean. It celebrates humanity’s relationship with nature through immersive landscapes, art, and science. Food is a highlight, with their affordable restaurant showcasing Cornish produce and global flavours many of which they grow themselves. Easily a full day trip and that’s before you’ve visited the shop! Tickets last a year.
See also Venues
St Michael’s Mount (1hr 5)
Through the mist, you might spot the island of St Michael’s Mount rearing out of the water. This monastery-turned-fortress is steeped in legend, famously linked to the myth of the giant Cormoran defeated by Jack the Giant Killer, and there his heart remains! The terraced gardens are subtropical havens, clinging to the granite cliffs and filled with exotic succulents. Supported by The National Trust, the castle has been in the St Aubyn family since the 1650s. At low tide you can walk across the ancient cobbled causeway from Marazion, at high tide arrive by boat for an added touch of adventure.
Glendurgan Garden (1hr 5)
Hidden in a Cornish valley overlooking the Helford River, Glendurgan Garden was created in the early 19th century by the Fox family as a haven for exotic plants brought back by seafaring explorers. The highlight of this stunning garden is its cherry laurel maze planted in 1833. The maze is one of the oldest and most unusual in the UK, with a single winding path that gently draws you to the centre. Tie your visit in with a trip to the quintessential fishing town of Falmouth and possibly treat yourself to lunch at Culture.
ART & CULTURE
The Story of Emily (30 mins)
The Story of Emily brings to life the remarkable legacy of Emily Hobhouse, a courageous humanitarian born in St Ive, Liskeard in 1860 who exposed the suffering of women and children in South African concentration camps during the Boer War. Through immersive exhibits, personal letters, and powerful storytelling, visitors step into the world of a woman whose compassion changed public opinion and history. This exhibition has received rave reviews.
Lavethan (15 mins)
Privately owned by Simon and Krysia, this stunning Grade II* manor house plays host to the sublime classical, folk and jazz concerts and workshops in their beautifully restored long stone barn. Notwithstanding the exceptional standard of music, the performances are generally informal, extremely reasonable and very welcoming. Krysia herself performs worldwide as leader of the internationally renowned Brodsky Quartet. In July she organises ‘Music on the Moor’, a ‘mainland’ music, literary and arts festival for the discerning and their children.
See also Events
Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden (1hr5)
Modern and contemporary art mecca, The Tate St Ives, combine your ticket and a 5 walk away you have the garden and studio of one of the UK’s most influential sculptures, Barbara Hepworth. If that isn’t enough to satiate your artistic appetite, the winding cobbled streets, the artisan bakeries, the fine art galleries, the views across the Atlantic and the extraordinary light which has been appreciated by artists for well over a century, should do the trick! Top tips: ditch the car and hop on the St Ives Bay Line from St Erth to St Ives Book a terrace table at the Porthminster Beach Cafe for lunch or simply head to their Beach Bar for a takeaway on the beach.
Minack Theatre (1hr20)
An awe inspiring open-air theatre carved into the granite cliffs above Porthcurno. It’s a drive, but it’s also an experience you’ll never forget. Build time into your trip to visit the fascinating exhibition about the 1930s creator Rowena Cade and explore the sub-tropical rockeries. Known for its adaptations of Shakespear, poetry and mythical recitals, music and opera, the Atlantic makes for a seriously dramatic backdrop. NB.There is no step-free access and paths are uneven. Tie it in with a trip to the Tremenheere Sculpture Garden or St Michael’s Mount.
Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery (40 mins)
Renovated and reopened in 2025 this 200-year-old institution is a treasure trove of the county’s rich history, from ancient archaeology and mining heritage to natural history and Cornish culture. Its art galleries showcase local and regional artists, weaving the story of Cornwall’s creative spirit alongside its fascinating past. With engaging exhibitions and hands-on displays, the museum brings the county’s stories vividly to life for visitors of all ages.
THEME PARKS & FAMILY DAYS OUT
Bodmin Jail (8 mins)
So close to Boconnion and an amazing experience, it would be a crime not to go! We can’t recommend a tour of the jail highly enough - it’s so good in fact, Rob treated us to it for our staff Christmas party followed by a burger at Native. It really is frightening though so heed the min.8 y/o warning. Steeped in gruesome history of hangings, notorious inmates, the evolution of prisons, brutal punishments, ghosts, local myths and a state-of-the-art 4D tour. Whether you opt for the self-guided version or a guide of your own, it’s worth every penny. Shaken and stirred?! Head to the sophisticated Hotel Champagne Bar for something to steady the nerves afterwards. No dogs inside.
See also Bespoke Experiences
Eden Project & Hangloose Adventure (25 mins)
A winning combination is the wonder of Eden alongside the thrills of Hangloose. We sometimes head to Lantic Bay for an early morning blow out before descending on Eden, where giant rainforest and Mediterranean biomes rise from a former clay pit. There are waterfalls, a 50m high viewing platform, hands-on exhibits, interactive trails, outdoor play areas, and seasonal activities like ice skating and an amazing Father Christmas experience. The food is delicious and very reasonable with ice cream stalls everywhere you turn. Hangloose is an 8 minute walk away for high-octane fun and confidence building with the fastest zip line in the UK whipping you over Eden’s biomes at 60mph, giant swing and skytrek. Dogs on leads allowed everywhere except in the biomes.
See also Houses & Gardens and Venues
Camel Creek Theme Park (30 mins)
A high-energy family favourite loved by the locals and packed with over 40 thrilling rides, splashy slides, and exciting attractions for all ages. The ride openings rotate so check before you go if there’s a particular one you’re hoping for. From roller coasters and slides, to reptile houses and tiny ponies and a giant shire horse, spot the meerkats, dig to Australia with the in the Creeky Construction sandpit. There is a 45,000 sq ft indoor play zones and plenty of spots to stop for a snack but seating can be a squeeze so make sure to shotgun a table early in the busy season. Guide dogs only.
Lappa Valley Railway (35 mins)
This charming multiaward winning family escape transports you on a narrow gauge steam train through Cornish woodlands and countryside to the 35 acre East Wheel Rose tin mining site. Perfect for all ages, your ticket includes unlimited train rides all day on the three railways, both outdoor and indoor play areas should the weather turn inclement, trampolines, boat rides in Pedalo swans, adventure golf, their new (2024) frisbee golf course and lots more good old fashioned fun. Dogs are actively encouraged, there’s even a dog exercise field where you can take them off their lead, with access for them to paddle in the stream.
Some activities are only available in the summer months so do check on their website but regardless of the season, you’ll have a super day out. There’s a picnic area, alternatively treat yourself to a bite at the Engine Shed Cafe.
Wheal Martyn Clay Works (25 mins)
Generally acknowledged as being a much better day out than their website would let you believe, the 26 acre park tells the story of the men, women and children who lived, worked and played in the shadow of the clay tips around St Austell and how china clay helped shape the county’s economy and landscape. With a history dating from 1746 to the present, the museum is situated next to a modern clay pit which can be seen from a spectacular viewing platform. The site features preserved historic buildings, working machinery like a 35ft water wheel, scenic trails, hands-on displays and interactive exhibits. Dogs welcome everywhere.
Cornish Birds of Prey Centre (30 mins)
This seasonal non-for-profit sanctuary for neglected, injured or unwanted birds of prey (and a selection of domestic animals like ponies, cows and pigs) raises all its funds through visitors. Visitors can get up close to majestic eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. Set in the heart of the Cornish countryside, they often offer thrilling flying displays (though best to check before to avoid disappointment) and hands-on encounters that reveal the power and beauty of these incredible birds. Just Cornish supply all the delicious treats in the cafe. No dogs.
Hidden Valley Puzzle Park (30 mins)
A unique family adventure destination near Launceston that easily fills a full day with brain-teasing challenges graded for ability, and good food at Mrs Sproggett’s tea room. Set across enchanting woodland and beautifully kept gardens, the park was founded in 1994 and has grown from a simple treasure hunt into an immersive world of puzzles. There are 3 ‘Crystal-Maze-style’ trails where clues are changed annually, a mile long miniature railway, an extensive Beech Maze, the quirky Forbidden Mansion full of secret passageways and optical illusions and a brilliant 6min escape room. Dogs on leads allowed in all outside areas.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall (1hr)
Celebrating all things ‘Sea’ with floor-to-ceiling harbour views overlooking Discovery Quay, this award-winning maritime experience in Falmouth has got it all: over 15 galleries, a boatbuilding workshop, interactive exhibits and a collection that spans The National Small Boat collection, artworks, maps and charts and memorabilia. Until January 2027 the exhibition is ’SURF!’ 100 years of surfing in Cornwall, revealing how its Atlantic coastline helped shape a global center of surf culture and innovation. Through 100 surfboards and rare artifacts, it uncovers pioneering surfers, hidden histories, and Cornwall’s lasting influence on art, music, and lifestyle. Britain’s rich seafaring story is vividly brought to life, celebrating the county’s deep connection to the sea. Dogs are not allowed.
Adrenalin Quarry (30 mins)
Packed with high-octane activities situated in an old flooded quarry near Liskeard, visit Adrenalin Quarry. Made up of a waterpark, go-karting track, zip wire, axe throwing and giant swing, all within easy walking distance of each other. At the Aquapark climb, jump, slide & bounce your way through their huge inflatable playground. Get wet on extreme trampolines, swings and monkey bars for a full 45 mins from £20pp. Over 12s can hurl axes, over 7s can rag around the 800m all-weather track, the zipwire is 50m high and 490m long. Food is sold, alternatively bring a picnic and enjoy it at one of their designated picnic spots.
See also Waterbased Activities