All-weather activities to do near The Vale
Cornwall might be famous for its sunlit beaches and coastal walks, but the weather doesn’t always play along – it is England after all! A little drizzle (or even a full-on downpour) doesn’t have to spoil your Cornish getaway. Cornwall has plenty of brilliant indoor attractions that make rainy days just as fun as the sunny ones.
At The Vale in Looe, Cornwall, we provide plenty of cosy comforts in your lodge to enjoy, but if you’re in the mood to venture out and explore, here are some fantastic all-weather activities just a short trip away.
The Eden Project
Arguably Cornwall’s most famous attraction, the Eden Project is a spectacular spot no matter the weather. Step into vast biomes filled with rainforest and Mediterranean plants, wander through art installations, and enjoy locally sourced food in their cafes. The Eden Project is a full day out and it’s just perfect on a rainy day. In fact, we think the rain makes the experience inside the domes feel even more magical.
National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth
Whilst it’s a bit further from Looe, just under an hour away from The Vale, the National Marine Aquarium is the UK’s largest aquarium and well worth the trip. From colourful reef fish to mesmerising sharks, this is a great rainy day out option for families or anyone who loves the ocean. It’s fun, educational, and the perfect way to stay dry while exploring beneath the waves.
Local galleries & arts spaces
Cornwall has a rich creative heritage, and rainy days are the perfect excuse to explore it. Head to local galleries in nearby towns like Looe and Fowey, or venture a little further to the Tate St Ives or The Box in Plymouth. Whether it’s contemporary art or traditional crafts, you’ll find plenty to spark inspiration.
Heritage & history
If you’re a history lover, you won’t need to travel far from Looe to step back in time. Just along the coast you’ll find Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling & Fishing, a quirky and fascinating collection that tells the tale of the village’s smuggling past and fishing traditions.
For something a little grander, head to Lanhydrock House & Gardens, one of Cornwall’s most beautiful historic estates. Explore its Victorian rooms, wander the gardens, and soak in the timeless atmosphere.Closer still, Looe’s very own Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol offers an intimate glimpse into the town’s history – from shipwrecks and smuggling to the daily lives of local people. It’s a hidden gem that’s perfect for a rainy day out in Cornwall.
Cosy cafes & tearooms
Sometimes the best way to spend a rainy day is the simplest: tucked into a cosy corner of a cafe with a cream tea, coffee or slice of homemade cake. Looe and Polperro are both dotted with plenty of welcoming spots where you can relax, watch the rain on the harbour, and soak in that cosy Cornish charm.
A rainy day well spent
At The Vale, Cornwall, your holiday doesn’t stop when the rain starts. Whether you’re exploring world-class attractions, stepping into Cornwall’s creative culture, or simply enjoying the sound of raindrops from the comfort of your holiday cottage or lodge, there’s always something to make a rainy day special.
So pack a raincoat, keep an open mind, and discover another side of Cornwall you’ll love just as much as the sunshine and beaches.
