May is when Cornwall truly comes to life. Cornwall’s spring gardens burst into colour, the days grow longer and sunnier, and the sea starts calling with the start of the bathing season. It’s also the start of Cornwall’s festival calendar, with food events and spring celebrations popping up across the county – all before the summer crowds arrive.

With two bank holidays and a half term to enjoy, May is the perfect time to embrace the warmer weather, head out and explore.

Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Cornwall this May bank holiday and half term. Plus, family-friendly days out and other activities to enjoy throughout the month.

The Cornish Place in May

Hot Tub, The Cornish Place — Hot Tub, The Stables at The Cornish Place

Our luxury holiday cottages are set in the heart of Cornwall, surrounded by 26 acres of peaceful countryside. In May, the landscape bursts into colour – wildflowers bloom, birdsong fills the morning air, and hedgerows brim with primroses, snowdrops, and the scent of wild garlic. It’s the perfect time to savour your morning coffee immersed in nature, or unwind in the hot tub as the sun sets over the fields.

The Cornish Place offers easy access to both the north and south coasts, giving you the freedom to explore Cornwall’s best beaches and coastal spots without compromise. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a group getaway, our central location makes it easy to experience the very best of Cornwall this May bank holiday and half term.

The best things to do in Cornwall May Bank Holiday 2025

The early May bank holiday weekend (Friday 2nd May to Monday 5th May) promises some of Cornwall’s best annual events and flower displays.

Porthleven Food Festival

When: Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th May 2025

Porthleven Food Festival kicks off the early May bank holiday in delicious style. Set around the picturesque harbour and backed by celebrity chef Jude Kereama, the festival celebrates the best of Cornish produce. Expect chef demos, street food stalls, live music, and family-friendly entertainment – all wrapped up in a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere.

Enys Gardens Bluebell Festival

When: Saturday 3rd to Sunday 11th May

May is peak season for Cornish bluebells, blanketing the county’s woodlands in vivid purples and blues. One of the best places to experience them is Enys Gardens, where dog-friendly trails wind through blooming woodland and gardens. Enjoy seasonal beauty alongside artist exhibitions, a café, and food stalls in this peaceful countryside haven.

May Day St Ives

May Day Dancing, Cornwall — *May Day Dancing, St Ives*

When: Monday 5th May 2025

Visit one of the UK’s most beloved seaside destinations, while gaining insight to local culture including mayday dancing and Cornish songs. Starting at midday from the Guildhall in Street-an-Pol, expect to see the town’s King and Queen elected. Then explore this coastal gem’s independent shops, galleries, harbour views and quaint cafés and restaurants.

The best things to do in Cornwall May Half Term 2025

The spring May bank holiday weekend and half-term (Friday 23rd May to Monday 2nd June) marks the transition from spring into summer, with plenty of events and things to do combining both entertainment and relaxation.

Falmouth Food Festival

When: Friday 23rd to Monday 26th May 2025

Celebrate the late May bank holiday at the Falmouth Food Festival, a vibrant event that brings together the town’s rich foodie, maritime, and creative heritage. With everything sourced within a 30km radius, you’ll find authentic local flavours, unique craft stalls, live cooking demos, and a mix of music from traditional Cornish shanties to upbeat DJ sets. Entry is free – making it one of the top things to do in Cornwall for families, couples, and curious foodies alike.

Horrible Histories 3D at The Hall for Cornwall

When: Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th May 2025

Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, these live performances promise to bring family-friendly fun. Choose from two shows at the Hall For Cornwall: The Terrible Tudors or the Awful Egyptians. Both bring historical figures and events alive in this interactive production.

The Great Estate Festival

Great Estates Festival Crowds — *Great Estate Festival Crowds*

When: Friday 30th May to Sunday 1st June 2025

Just minutes from The Cornish Place, The Great Estate Festival at Scorrier House is one of Cornwall’s most creative and family-friendly music events. Set in scenic grounds, it combines headline acts with quirky fun and a garden fête vibe. Think woodland discos, vintage fairground rides, secret gin spots and Swamp Circus skills.

Other things to do in Cornwall May 2025

If you’re planning to visit Cornwall outside of the May bank holiday and half term dates, don’t worry – there’s still plenty to enjoy.

Helston Flora Day

When: Thursday 8th May 2025

One of the UK’s most famous May Day festivals, Helston Flora Day is an ancient tradition marking the end of winter and transition into spring. Celebrated by traditional couples dances through the streets, and a fayre, there are also songs about the history of Helston and plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy.

Watch The Cigarette Surfboard at The Poly

When: Friday 9th May 2025

The Cigarette Surfboard is an environmental film that follows a group of professional surfers on a mission to protect the ocean from plastic pollution – specifically the toxic waste left behind by cigarette filters. The film has become a symbol of grassroots efforts to hold Big Tobacco accountable. Watch at the Poly at Falmouth, then join a Q&A session with Chris Hines and Steve England, co-founders of Surfers Against Sewage and featured voices in the film.

St Ives Food and Drink Festival

When: Friday 16th to Sunday 18th May 2025

Held right on the golden sands of Porthminster Beach, St Ives Food and Drink Festival is a much-loved Cornish event featuring live chef demos, artisan food stalls, and a buzzing local producers’ market with everything from Cornish cheese to craft cider. Daytime entry is free, while evening music sessions require tickets.

Bands in the Sands

When: Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May

For a one-night festival experience (each night is a separate event) in a truly stunning setting, Bands in the Sands delivers big names and coastal scenery right on Perranporth Beach. Combining national headliners and rising local talent with the sound of waves in the background, previous performers include Tom Jones, The Darkness, and Scouting for Girls.

The Minack Theatre

When: All month

May marks the start of the Minack’s full performance season, and there are a number of fantastic shows to enjoy in a world-class setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Including an adaptation of Northanger Abbey – Jane Austen’s classic gothic romance and Les Misérables: Let the People Sing there’s something for everyone.

Family-friendly days out in Cornwall May 2025

If you’re looking for additional family-friendly days out in Cornwall in May 2025, check out these local events and outdoor activities.

Pet the donkeys at the Flicka Foundation

*Donkeys at the Flicka Foundation, Cornwall*

Providing a sanctuary to over 100 abandoned donkeys and horses, The Flicka Foundation offers a fun day out for the whole family. Come and pet the donkeys, feed them treats and even adopt them while learning about the animals. Visit on World Donkey Day on Thursday 8th May for a special donkey themed raffle and donkey themed tombola.

Squashbox Theatre

When: Thursday 22nd May

Meet Skillywidden the mischievous Pisky and his faery friends at this free outdoor theatre show at Helston Boating Lake. Ideal for all ages, bring chairs or a picnic blanket to enjoy the fun. Squashbox Theatre is known for its playful, child-friendly performances with a touch of comedy, which are also gently informative.

Beach day and wild swim

May 15th is the official start of the bathing season, with calmer waters and bathing areas marked out by safety buoys. Start off by exploring Cornwall's best beaches, including our local favourites Gyllyngvase, Trefusis and Grebe – all of which are perfect for a post-swim picnic too.

Watersports activities

Beyond swimming, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the Cornish coastline. Near The Cornish Place you’ll find opportunities to go sailing or windsurfing at Stithians Lake, paddleboarding at Gyllyngvase beach and kayaking along the Helford River. Plus, adrenaline-fuelled activities at Kernow Adventure Park.

Cycle the Bissoe Trail

An old mineral tramway, the Bissoe Trail offers 11 miles of coast to coast trails perfect for cycling and soaking up the Cornish inland scenery. Rent bikes at Bike Chain Bissoe, then enjoy well-earned refreshments in the café.

Penrose Bat Walk

common-pipistrelle-bat-generic-national-trust — *National Trust Bat Walk*

For something a bit different, head to National Trust Penrose and join them on a bat walk on Tuesday 20th May. Taking place at dusk you’ll be led by Cornwall Bat Group and provided with bat detectors to help you spot these fascinating yet elusive animals.

Where to stay in Cornwall

With a host of events and activities close by, The Cornish Place is perfectly placed for a relaxing spring getaway. After a day of food festivals, live music, or coastal adventures, unwind in your private cottage, enjoy the outdoor hot tub, and soak up the tranquillity of the Cornish countryside.

Book your May holiday stay today and enjoy the best of Cornwall this spring.

Best things to do May Bank Holiday and Half Term 2025

The Cornish Place in May