Events at The National Maritime Museum Cornwall

    SURF!

    100 years of waveriding in Cornwall.

    Along the 422 miles of exposed Cornish coastline, waves tear and tumble towards land, shaping the peninsula – and its people. Exposure to the Atlantic Ocean’s barrelling swells has led to a strong and enduring tie to the sea for so many who live here.

    SURF!, the next major exhibition from National Maritime Museum Cornwall, celebrates a century of surfing in Cornwall, and reveals how the county has become a global stage for surf innovation, activism and a trailblazer in blue health. It explores how Cornish surf culture has influenced music, film, fashion and art with unseen works by leading contemporary artists including Damien Hirst and Abigail Fallis. Through 100 surfboards, the exhibition uncovers the hidden histories of once unknown female surfers, reveals the 1920s pioneers who led the way and spotlights the surf champions made here today.

    Just as the thrashing waves shape the Cornish landscape, Cornwall’s communities have helped shape an entire industry.

    March 28th 2025 - January 2027

    The Cornish Caretakers and the Treasures of Cornishness

    This Easter holidays, join the Cornish Caretakers as they bring Cornish history to life in a hilarious new family show ‘The Cornish Caretakers and the Treasures of Cornishness’ at National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

    All of the Easter Holiday activities are free as part of the Museum’s admission fee, pay once and get in free for a year.

    Dates: Saturday 5 April - Monday 21 April

    Rock Pool Explorers

    Dive into an exciting marine discovery experience with The Rock Pool Project at National Maritime Museum Cornwall this May half term.

    Get up close with living coastal creatures in the mobile rock pool, staffed throughout the day by expert marine educators from The Rock Pool Project. Express your creativity in Make & Take workshops, running from 10:30am to 3:30pm and join in with a Museum trail.

    May Half Term activities are included free with Museum admission. Link: https://nmmc.co.uk/whats-on/may-half-term/

    Monday 24 May to Sunday 1 June

    Wipeout

    Watch in amazement as skilled performers transform surfing moves into breathtaking aerial choreography this summer at National Maritime Museum Cornwall, from Monday 21 July to Sunday 31 August with daily shows at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 3:00pm.

    This unique summer show blends aerial choreography with playful humour and surf culture charm. The performers flip, soar, and dive through the air, creating an immersive experience that captures the freedom and excitement of catching the perfect wave.

    Monday 21 July – Sunday 31 August

    Silhouettes and Shadows

    Join in with spooky shadow puppet stories and songs at National Maritime Museum Cornwall this October Half Term.

    Step into a world of enchanting shadows and mysterious tales at National Maritime Museum Cornwall this October half term - where interactive shadow puppet storytelling sessions bring spooky stories to life. Get hands-on in family Make & Take workshops and complete the Museum trail to uncover hidden surprises throughout the building.

    Perfect for families - join in for a hauntingly fun autumn adventure from Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November.

    Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November

    Halloween at the Museum

    Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall out of hours for Halloween, if you dare! Ghoulishly good fun awaits – keep your eyes peeled for tricks and treats along the way. Gather round in the Museum’s Boat Hall for a mythical tale told by a ghostly character. Explore the Museum after hours and discover hidden Halloween surprises throughout your journey.

    This family-friendly Halloween experience creates a safe environment for children to enjoy the spirit of the season. Halloween activities are FREE as part of the Museum’s admission fee.

    Thursday 31 October, 4.00pm – 6.30pm (last entry 5.30pm).

    A Cornish Christmas

    Immerse yourself in the best of what makes our beautiful part of the world sparkle at this magical time of year with A Cornish Christmas at National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

    Saturday 20 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026
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