Engine house & mining landmarks
Begin with the structures that reveal how industry shaped this distinctive Cornish landscape.
Find your way
Explore the whole site
Get oriented before your visit. This guide introduces the main areas across Heritage Cornwall, from mining landmarks and museum spaces to gardens, play and places to pause.
Build your own routeMix indoor discovery with open-air exploration at your pace.
Map key
Six areas to look for
Use these landmarks as a simple mental map. The site brings industrial heritage, planted landscapes, visitor facilities and family spaces together.
Museum spaces
Step indoors for interpretation of mining, engineering and the communities connected to them.
Diaspora gardens
Follow planted spaces inspired by the worldwide journeys and connections of Cornish people.
Adventure playground
Make time for active outdoor play in a landscape designed for family exploration.
Wheal Play
Add an indoor family play experience when you want a change of pace or shelter from the weather.
Café & places to pause
Break up your route with refreshments or a quiet moment in the surrounding open spaces.
A suggested route
From deep roots to open space
Orient yourself
Start by identifying the main heritage structures and the visitor areas you most want to see.
Understand the story
Explore the museum interpretation before looking again at the industrial landscape outside.
Walk through the gardens
Move into the planted spaces and discover how Cornwall’s mining story reached around the world.
Choose play or a pause
Finish with family play, refreshments or more time wandering the open grounds.
Before setting out
Plan for a flexible visit
There is no single correct way around Heritage Cornwall. Choose a route that suits your group, the weather and the time you have available.
- Allow extra time if you want to combine museum displays, gardens and play.
- Wear footwear suitable for moving between indoor spaces and outdoor paths.
- Review access information in advance if anyone in your group has specific requirements.
- Remember that some bookable activities and special events may operate separately.
- Contact the visitor team before travelling if you need current operational information.
Useful answers
Using the site map
This overview is designed to help you understand the character of the site and decide what to prioritise.
Is the whole site outdoors?
No. Heritage Cornwall combines outdoor heritage, gardens and play areas with indoor museum and family spaces.
Where should first-time visitors begin?
Beginning with the heritage structures and museum spaces provides useful context before you explore the gardens and wider grounds.
Can families make a shorter route?
Yes. Choose one heritage area, include either indoor or outdoor play, and leave time for a break rather than trying to cover everything.
Is general exploration free?
Yes. Heritage Cornwall is presented as a free visitor attraction, although some bookable activities and special events may have separate arrangements.
What if the weather changes?
Mix indoor and outdoor areas so you can adapt your route. Museum spaces and Wheal Play offer alternatives to extended outdoor exploration.
Is accessibility information available?
Yes. Review the dedicated access information before visiting, particularly if you need details for a specific route or requirement.
Need help planning?