Beautiful beaches, woodland trails and botanical gardens
At Perfect Stays, we believe that everyone should be able to enjoy the beauty of Cornwall, regardless of ability. That’s why we’ve curated a list of days out and activities across the county that cater to a range of needs, ensuring everyone can experience the stunning scenery, rich history and vibrant landmarks that make Cornwall so special.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, some of our properties, like Four Geese, naturally lend themselves to accessibility thanks to their thoughtful layout. Learn more about our properties with accessible features.
© Newquay Zoo and Coastal Crusaders via Instagram
Newquay Zoo
Location: Newquay, North Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free routes, accessible toilets, free entry for accompanying carers and assistance dogs welcome
Loved by children and adults alike, Newquay Zoo comes highly recommended with facilities designed to be fully accessible. The small zoo is wheelchair and pushchair-friendly, with flat pathways and accessible toilets throughout. Assistance dogs are welcome, and there’s free entry for carers too. Whether you’re meeting the meerkats or watching the big cats, Newquay Zoo ensures an enjoyable visit for everyone.
The centre of Newquay isn't too far away either, and you can reach its shops, restaurants and beaches within a mile. Great Western Beach can be accessed via a slipway, making it a good option for those using wheelchairs, scooters or pushchairs. Meanwhile, The Tram Track provides a flat vehicle-free route into the centre of town, where we recommend stopping by Freddo’s for ice creams in the sun or Mix for pancake stacks and cream teas.
The Camel Trail
Location: North Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free access, accessible toilet (Beach Box in Wadebridge and North Quay in Padstow) and assistance dogs welcome
The Camel Trail is a flat, scenic route that’s perfect for those wishing to explore North Cornwall. Stretching from Wadebridge to Padstow, this popular trail offers a leisurely journey through Cornish countryside and estuarine flats. With smooth paths ideal for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs, the Camel Trail makes it easy to soak up the scenery with fresh air and a picnic.
For those joining the route in Wadebridge, there’s blue badge parking available in Piggy Lane car park and accessible toilets located next to Beach Box. On arrival into Padstow (around five miles away), we recommend calling into the National Lobster Hatchery; an accessible, educational hub for lobster conservation and marine research.
Fowey
Location: South Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, accessible toilets, shuttle bus service and assistance dogs welcome
The picturesque town of Fowey is full of charm and foodie recommendations, with accessible options to ensure an enjoyable visit. To avoid the steep hills, catch the shuttle bus from Park Road directly into town. From here, you can make your way over to the harbour to watch the sailboats before taking to the main street in search of interior boutiques and lunch options. Appleton’s offers ramp access and ground floor seating, while Haveners has plenty of outdoor tables and full wheelchair access throughout.
We also recommend calling into one of our favourite interior shops, Brocante. With ramp access and beautiful items for sale, it makes a perfect stop-off when looking for a holiday keepsake.
Additional notes: Fowey is built on a hill with narrow roads, pavements and steep steps in places. Many of the restaurants and shops are accessed via one or two steps, however, Appleton's, Haveners, Brocante, Pintxo, North Street Kitchen and Game of Cones have level entry or ramp access.
Polzeath
Location: North Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free access, accessible toilets, wheelchair loan and assistance dogs welcome
For a classic Cornish beach day, head to Polzeath where you’ll find a huge expanse of golden sand and incredible surf. You can hire sand wheelchairs from Wavehunters and book in for seated surfing or adapted lessons with their partner company, Coastal Crusaders. With plenty of rockpools to explore and great beachside eateries close by, a day spent on the beach is great for the whole family and a must-do while holidaying in Cornwall. It's also worth noting that there's a free drinking water station close to the beach for those visiting with assistance dogs.
Coastal Crusaders operate along the north coast, so be sure to ask our Concierge team to book you in for an adapted lesson if you’re staying in Porth, Porthcothan or Harlyn Bay.
© Eden Project by Matt Jessop and The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Tintagel Castle
Location: Tintagel, North Cornwall
Facilities: accessible toilets, wheelchair loan, braille guides available and assistance dogs welcome
Perched on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, Tintagel Castle now offers step-free access, making it easier for everyone to enjoy its incredible views and rich history. The modern footbridge provides smooth access across the dramatic gorge, and a shuttle bus is available to transport visitors to the main entrance from the town’s accessible car park. With its fascinating links to King Arthur and breath-taking scenery, the ruins of Tintagel Castle are perfect for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in myth and legend.
Tintagel's town also has accessible parking and flat streets, meaning you can dip into bakeries, antique curiosities and olde-worlde inns following your visit to the castle.
Additional notes: Tintagel Castle is hilly with slopes, steps and uneven surfaces in places, however, you can avoid the steep steps by crossing back along the bridge for step-free access. There's a video tour on their website and you can contact the team on 01840 770 328 to discuss specific requirements and potential limitations ahead of your visit.
Eden Project
Location: Bodelva near St Austell, South Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, accessible toilets, tramper mobility scooter hire, wheelchair loan, lift, free entry for accompanying carers, braille guidebook, text reader and assistance dogs welcome
The iconic Eden Project is a wonderland of botanical gardens, with routes designed to be fully accessible. The smooth pathways meander through the biomes, allowing wheelchair and buggy users to explore the tropical and Mediterranean gardens with ease. The site is set over varying elevations, but there’s a lift and a zig-zag pathway for step-free access to the main attraction.
Loved for its complete sensory and educational experience, each and every route has been designed for everyone; of all ages and abilities. Accessible parking, toilets, and plenty of benches ensure that you can take in the lush greenery and impressive sculptures at your own pace.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Location: Pentewan, South Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, accessible toilets, mobility scooter hire, wheelchair loan, free entry for accompanying carers and assistance dogs welcome
The enchanting Lost Gardens of Heligan is one of the most atmospheric estates in England, and it’s accessible too. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to borrow free of charge, making it easier to explore the winding pathways and historic gardens. From the Victorian Productive Garden to the Rare Breed Farm Park, Heligan provides a tranquil day out where everyone can immerse themselves in nature and wildlife.
Pentire Headland
Location: near Polzeath, North Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free access, accessible toilets, tramper mobility scooter hire and assistance dogs welcome
With its stunning coastal views, Pentire Headland sits just around the coast from Polzeath and is managed by the National Trust. The site offers accessible parking, toilets and a "Tramper" (all-terrain mobility scooter) for hire, so everyone can explore the ramped paths and historic mining routes. We encourage packing binoculars, so wildlife enthusiasts can spot seals basking below while enjoying the on-site café and bookshop (ramp access).
© Barnaby's and The National Maritime Museum
Cardinham Woods
Location: South Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free access, accessible toilet, mobility scooter hire and assistance dogs welcome
Cardinham Woods makes for an idyllic day trip with many accessible routes and stunning scenery. The canopy of trees provides a cool shelter during the warmer months, while autumn sees it come alive with orange leaves and conkers. Hire a 'Tramper' and explore the flat, scenic paths that wind through the woods. The Ladyvale loop is wide enough for buggies, prams and wheelchairs, and ends at Wood’s Café. Enjoy a pot of tea and walnut cake at one of their many accessible picnic tables, either outside or in the marquee—a favourite tradition of ours.
Merlin Cinemas
Locations: Bodmin, Helston, Falmouth, Redruth, St Ives and Penzance
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free access, accessible toilets, subtitled screenings, sensory need performances and assistance dogs welcome
Although the county of Cornwall is renowned for its stunning scenery and soft sand beaches, a rainy-day option is always well worth considering. For an accessible cinema experience, Cornwall’s local Merlin theatres offer subtitled performances, wheelchair access and autism-friendly screenings.
With accessible toilets and the option to sit where you feel most comfortable, these screenings are designed for everyone to enjoy a popcorn-filled movie day in comfort. No adverts, low lighting and a welcoming atmosphere ensure it’s an inclusive experience for all.
Barnaby’s at Trevibban Mill
Location: near Padstow, North Cornwall
Facilities: step-free access, accessible toilets and assistance dogs welcome
Located near Padstow, Barnaby’s at Trevibban Mill is a must-visit for food-lovers, combining award-winning wines with delicious menus in a stunning vineyard setting. The restaurant offers step-free access and accessible toilets, making it a great option for inclusive dining. Although the menu changes with the seasons, you can expect plenty of fresh fish, garden veg and speciality sharing platters.
Assistance dogs are also warmly welcomed and there’s plenty of patio seating for al fresco lunching. With its tranquil surroundings and easy access, don’t forget to explore the vineyard’s organic wines, or simply enjoy the peaceful countryside views with a glass in hand.
National Maritime Museum
Location: Falmouth, South Cornwall
Facilities: accessible parking, step-free access, accessible toilets, braille guides, BSL tablet tour, subtitled audio-visual exhibits, hearing loops and assistance dogs welcome
In the heart of Falmouth, the National Maritime Museum is an inspiring day out, catered to inclusivity, mobility and educational needs. The five levels of maritime exhibits can be easily reached via a lift or ramps, and British Sign Language tablet tours, braille guides and subtitled exhibits ensure everyone can enjoy the tales of the ocean at their own pace.
The experiences and events change regularly but be sure to catch "Pirates" between now and January 2025. The exhibit unearths the history of Long John Silver and the real pirates of the Caribbean, making it a popular choice amongst families of all ages.
For those staying closer to Devon, we’d recommend visiting the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth. Not only is it the largest in the UK, but it also ensures a completely accessible and sensory experience for its visitors.
Where to stay
Above: Four Geese in Daymer Bay
We've recently created a new inspiration page for those with accessibility needs. Whether you're looking for ground-floor living, frontline sea views, a cosy living room with a wood burner, or additional equipment to ensure everyone is well looked after during their holiday, here’s a list of our homes for a comfortable and stress-free stay.
These recommendations are provided to the best of our knowledge, but we understand that everyone’s needs are different. If you feel something might not be suitable, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us on marketing@perfectstays.co.uk – we’re always happy to receive your feedback and welcome your insights.
Image credits: The Lost Gardens of Heligan (plus main image) | Eden Project by Matt Jessop | Barnaby's, The National Maritime Museum and Newquay Zoo and Coastal Crusaders via Instagram
Posted by Bethany Walton
Beth can usually be found on a Cornish beach or enjoying a swim in the sea. She has great insight about where to visit across the county, plus plenty of recommendations for finding the best Cornish ice cream.
Featured in this post
Four Geese
- Daymer Bay, Cornwall
- Sleeps: 8
- Bedrooms: 4 i
- Bathrooms: 5
With rolling countryside views and an indulgent outdoor bath tub, Four Geese is the perfect base for a peaceful getaway on the north coast. Walking distance from the golden sands of Daymer Bay, you can transition from countryside to coast in minutes. Ground floor living, a rise and recline "pivotal" bed, plus step-free access onto the terrace and garden mean accessibility is at the core of Four Geese’s design.
- Dog-Friendly
- Sea Views
- EV Charger
- Hot Tub
- Swimming Pool
- Games/TV Room
Per week from
£1950Short breaks from
£1800
