Person paddleboarding on a wave in the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.
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Looking for Things to Do with Teenagers in Cornwall? Here’s Our Top Picks!

If you are looking for things to do with teenagers in Cornwall, the area has plenty to offer. Encourage your teen to put their phone away for the day and take them on an adventure they will not forget.

From surfing the infamous waves before indulging in fish and chips on the beach to learning about local heritage at one of the many historic sites here. Cornwall is a place where active days, family fun and unforgettable views are all within easy reach.

Read on to get inspired for your next day out with your teenager. At The Olde House, we have fantastic family rooms perfect for family getaways. Wadebridge is a wonderful base for teenagers to explore all that Cornwall activities for teens can offer.

Two people stand-up paddleboarding on ocean waves under a blue sky with some clouds.

Surf Lessons at Polzeath

For teenagers who love sports, trying new things and a bit of adrenaline, there is no better activity than surfing. Polzeath is one of the best beaches for first-timers, with steady waves and friendly surf schools ready to help.

Lessons include full wetsuits, boards and clear guidance in the water. Wavehunters is a popular choice and offers both group and private sessions:


 From The Olde House, Polzeath is an easy twenty-minute drive, making it simple to plan a morning on the waves.

The beach is tidal, so mid-tide is often ideal for beginners. After the session, teens will enjoy warming up with chips on the sand while watching other surfers ride the sets.

Rocky coastline with dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea under a clear blue sky.

Coasteering near Port Isaac and Port Gaverne

If your teen enjoys excitement and pushing their limits, coasteering is a great pick. This activity takes you along rocky shorelines, across tidal pools and into deep-water jumps that feel thrilling but controlled.

Sessions are usually two to three hours and all kit is provided. Cornish Rock Tors is based near Port Gaverne and offers routes for mixed confidence levels. 

There are calmer options too, perfect for families wanting a gentler experience. With trained guides leading the way, it is a safe but exhilarating choice for family days out Cornwall.

Two people riding bicycles on a gravel path surrounded by greenery and wildflowers under a blue sky.

Camel Trail Cycling Made Easy

Few activities suit teenagers better than a simple cycle route with beautiful views. The Camel Trail is an 18-mile, largely traffic-free path that links Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow.

The Wadebridge to Padstow stretch is ideal and offers gentle estuary views the whole way.

Bike hire is easy from Bridge Bike Hire in Wadebridge, which offers standard bikes, e-bikes and accessible options.. You can start cycling directly from their shop onto the trail.

Padstow has plenty of cafés for hungry teens, and the ride back follows the same scenic route. It is a relaxed but rewarding day out, and it begins right on your doorstep.

Person water skiing on a lake, creating a spray of water behind them with hills in the background.

Big-Ticket Thrills for Adrenaline Fans

Some teenagers want something bigger. Cornwall has plenty of thrilling activities to satisfy them.

At the Eden Project, Hangloose Adventure offers England’s fastest zipwire.. Minimum ages and weight guidelines apply, so it is worth checking ahead.

Adrenalin Quarry near Liskeard has an aquapark, giant zip and other water-based fun. Sessions are full of energy and perfect for confident teens.

Via Ferrata Cornwall near Falmouth adds high-wire excitement and guided climbing. It is a safe and structured way for teens to enjoy adventure in the outdoors.

These activities work best as part of a full day out. The short drive from Wadebridge means you can pick the adventure that suits your teen best.

Colorful skateboard leaning against a yellow wooden wall

Rain-Proof Winners Teens Actually Rate

Cornwall is beautiful in all weathers, but sometimes you need a solid indoor plan.
Mount Hawke Skatepark near Truro is the largest indoor skatepark in the South West. Teens can skate, scooter or BMX, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

For something immersive, Bodmin Jail brings history to life through dramatic storytelling and atmospheric sets.

 The National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth has a brilliant SURF! exhibition that teens love. 

Rain never needs to stop play when Cornwall offers so many exciting indoor options.

Tintagel Castle footbridge spanning a rocky gorge with people walking across

Culture and Castles with Edge

Some teenagers enjoy heritage most when it comes with a sense of drama. Tintagel Castle is perfect for this. Its cliff-top views and impressive footbridge create a magical mix of landscape and legend. 

Charlestown’s Shipwreck Treasure Museum also appeals to curious minds. The underground tunnels and maritime stories add an adventurous edge to a cultural day out.

These spots show teenagers that history can be just as exciting as outdoor adventure.

Person swimming in clear blue natural pool surrounded by rocky cliffs.

Wild Swim and Aqua Parks

If your teen loves the water, wild swimming can feel refreshing and fun. Kernow Adventure Park offers safe, supervised sessions in a beautiful quarry lake.

The aquapark here is especially popular with teenagers who enjoy friendly competition.

These are great choices for warm days and offer something different from the beach.

Exterior of The Mariners pub in Rock with yellow walls, glass terrace, and outdoor plants

Eat, Refuel, Repeat

Teenagers always appreciate a good food stop. Wadebridge has cafés and bakeries perfect for a quick refuel, while Padstow offers harbourside favourites after a cycle on the Camel Trail.

Polzeath has beach cafés ideal for hungry surfers. Back at The Olde House, our on-site facilities make evenings easy after a full day of adventure.

Practical Tips for Parents

Book popular activities early, especially in school holidays. Many have age or weight guidelines, so check ahead for ziplines and aquaparks.

Pack layers, snacks and plenty of water. Parking in Wadebridge is straightforward, and many attractions are less than thirty minutes from The Olde House.

Make The Olde House Your Base

The Olde House is a wonderful base for Wadebridge family holidays. Teens love the indoor pool, games room, padel and tennis courts, and the space to unwind after a busy day.

Our family rooms are spacious and comfortable, making it easy to relax together. All the best Things to Do with Teenagers in Cornwall are only a short drive away. Book your next stay with us and enjoy the perfect family break.

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