The New Year is underway, the January blues are behind you and suddenly February half term is just around the corner! If you’re feeling ready for a well-earned break, Cornwall is the perfect place to recharge.
With its crisp sea air, dramatic coastal walks, and exciting activities for the whole family, February in Cornwall is full of ways to relax, explore, and have fun—whatever the weather. Here are some of our favourite February half term ideas for families, couples, and curious explorers alike.
🎨 Get Creative at Tate St Ives: Tate Create
Perched above the waves on Porthmeor Beach, Tate St Ives is a must-visit—especially during half term. Their Tate Create sessions are perfect for families with children under 12. You’ll explore the latest exhibition and then get hands-on with creative activities using a wide range of materials.
Whether your child is already an aspiring artist or just loves messy play, this is a great way to spend a morning surrounded by colour, creativity, and sea views.
📍 Tate St Ives, Porthmeor Beach
Tate St Ives – Workshops and Tate Create
🍫 Chocolate Workshops at CoCo Kitchen, St Ives
For an experience that’s as fun as it is delicious, CoCo Kitchen in St Ives offers hands-on chocolate-making workshops for all ages (check age guidelines when booking). Learn how to temper, shape, and decorate your own artisanal chocolates, and best of all, you get to take your creations home!
Workshops run from Tuesday to Saturday during half term, and spaces fill up quickly.
📍 CoCo Kitchen, Fore Street, St Ives
Book Online with CoCo Kitchen here
🎥 Catch a Film at Newlyn Filmhouse
Cornwall’s coolest cinema? We think so. Housed in a beautifully converted fish cellar, Newlyn Filmhouse offers a boutique cinema experience with two screens, a locally sourced café menu, and a laid-back vibe. It’s a perfect option for rainy days or relaxed evenings.
There’s always something for everyone from family-friendly favourites to arthouse films.
📍 Newlyn, near Penzance
🌊 Blow Away the Cobwebs: Beach Walks & Sea Dips
A Cornwall half term wouldn’t be complete without a brisk beach walk—and maybe even a dip in the sea (yes, really!). Beaches are quiet in February, dogs are welcome, and the scenery is breathtaking.
For a more adventurous option, local surf schools like Smart Surf School in Sennen offer winter lessons with all the right kit to keep you warm and safe.
📍 Sennen Beach, West Cornwall
📡 Explore History at the Telegraph Museum, Porthcurno
Discover the surprising story of Porthcurno, once the world’s largest submarine telegraph station. The Telegraph Museum brings to life Cornwall’s unexpected role in global communication—with interactive exhibits and underground tunnels to explore.
Afterwards, take a walk down to Porthcurno Beach—a golden, cinematic cove that’s featured in Poldark and was recently named one of the Top 50 Beaches in Europe.
📍 Porthcurno, near Land’s End
🍽️ Cosy Pubs & Hot Chocolates
February’s cool sea breezes are the perfect excuse for a cosy pub lunch or steaming mug of hot chocolate. Here are a few of our favourite spots:
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Porthmeor Beach Café, St Ives – Ocean views and the best hot chocolate in town
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The Gurnard’s Head, near Zennor – Sunday roasts and open fires
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Mexico Inn, Long Rock – Family friendly and locally sourced menus
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Scarlet Wines, Lelant – Great for late Sunday roasts with an excellent wine list
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The Queens Hotel, St Ives – A classic Cornish pub just off Fore Street
🏺 Get Hands-On at St Ives Pottery
Learn to throw your own pot with the welcoming team at St Ives Pottery in the Drill Hall. Sessions are suitable for all ages (from around 3 years and up) and offer a brilliant way to get creative indoors.
Availability is limited, so we recommend contacting them in advance to check times and suitability.
📍 Drill Hall, St Ives
🏡 February Half Term Stays in Cornwall
Whether you’re bringing the kids, the grandparents, or your dog, we have a lovely selection of self-catering holiday homes available this February half term. From sea-view apartments in St Ives to cosy cottages in Mousehole and Praa Sands, we’ve got the perfect base for your family adventure.
Why February is a Hidden Gem in Cornwall
Fewer crowds, better availability, dog-friendly beaches, dramatic coastal scenery—and lots of unique events to enjoy. February in Cornwall offers the perfect mix of peace and play, ideal for a relaxing yet fun-filled escape before spring begins.
Whether you’re storm-watching from your sea view window, chasing waves with the kids, or indulging in local hot chocolate after a long walk, Cornwall is calling.
We’d love to welcome you this February.
