Fancy a family getaway that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation? Look no further than the Helford River in Cornwall. This stunning estuary is like Mother Nature’s very own playground, and we’ve got the perfect two-day itinerary that’ll have the whole family grinning from ear to ear. So pack your wellies, grab the kids, and let’s dive into a Cornish adventure!
Day One: Explore and Play
Rise and shine, sleepyheads! Your Helford adventure begins with a hearty Cornish breakfast – perhaps a piping hot pasty or some buttered toast with local jam. Trust me, you’ll need the energy for what’s coming.
First stop: Glendurgan Garden. This National Trust gem is a maze-lover’s paradise. Literally. The cherry laurel maze here is so much fun, you might lose the kids for hours (don’t worry, they always turn up eventually, usually with ice cream-stained grins). While the little ones are busy pretending to be minotaurs, parents can enjoy the stunning subtropical gardens. Don’t miss the ‘Giant’s Stride’ rope swing – it’s a hit with kids and grown-ups alike!
After all that maze-running, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head to the Ferryboat Inn at Helford Passage for lunch. This charming riverside pub serves up delicious food with a side of stunning views. The kids’ menu is great, and there’s a beach right outside for post-lunch sandcastle building.
Spend the afternoon messing about on the river. Hire kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Helford River Boats and explore the tranquil creeks and inlets. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, kingfishers, and if you’re really lucky, you might spot a seal! Don’t worry if you’ve never kayaked before – the calm waters here are perfect for beginners.
As the day winds down, treat yourselves to dinner at the Shipwrights Arms in Helford village. This 17th-century pub is as charming as they come, with a menu that’ll please both adventurous and picky eaters. The kids can work off their dessert in the pub’s garden while you relax with a well-deserved Cornish ale.
Day Two: Beaches and Treasures
After yesterday’s adventures, you might want a slower start. Begin with a lazy breakfast and then head to Kynance Cove. This beach is like something out of a fairytale – turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic rock formations. At low tide, the kids can explore rock pools teeming with marine life. Just keep an eye on the tide times – you don’t want to get caught out!
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach. There’s a café at Kynance for ice creams and Cornish cream teas if you’re feeling indulgent (go on, you’re on holiday after all).
In the afternoon, channel your inner pirate with a trip to Frenchman’s Creek. This secluded inlet was made famous by Daphne du Maurier’s novel of the same name. Hire a small motor boat from Helford River Boats and putter up the creek, spinning yarns about smugglers and hidden treasure. The overhanging trees and quiet waters create a magical atmosphere that’ll enchant both kids and adults.
For your final evening, head to Trebah Garden. In the summer months, they often host outdoor theatre performances – what better way to end your trip than with some al fresco entertainment in a beautiful setting? If there’s no performance on, the garden is still worth a visit. The hydrangea valley in full bloom is a sight to behold, and the private beach at the bottom of the garden is perfect for a sunset paddle.
As you tuck the kids into bed on your last night, don’t be surprised if they’re already asking when you can come back. The Helford River has a way of capturing hearts, no matter how young or old. From kayaking adventures to magical gardens, from pasties to pirate creeks, it’s a place where family memories are made.
So there you have it – two days of family fun on the Helford River. Just remember to pack for all weathers (this is England, after all), bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to fall in love with this beautiful corner of Cornwall. Who knows? You might even spot a mermaid… or was that just a very shiny fish?