Our Guide to Christmas in Cornwall

The countdown to Christmas is on! Whether you live in Cornwall or are planning a festive escape, the county truly comes alive during the holiday season. From scenic winter walks and sparkling Christmas lights to hearty roast dinners by the fire, Cornwall offers a magical mix of activities for all ages.

Here’s our guide to the best Christmas activities in Cornwall:

Ice Skating at the Eden Project

The Eden Project is a winter wonderland every year. Ice skating is a firm favourite for families, with sessions for toddlers, beginners, and fun family skating. As evening falls, the biomes light up with the Christmas Light Experience, creating a truly enchanting festive scene.

Christmas Lights

Nothing evokes the festive spirit like twinkling lights. Cornwall is home to several dazzling displays:

• Mousehole: One of Cornwall’s most famous light displays. The harbour walls are adorned with sparkling lights, turning the village into a festive spectacle.

• The Lost Gardens of Heligan – Night Garden: Wander along magical illuminated trails through woodlands and gardens. Enjoy fire pits, toasted marshmallows, and food stalls while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Christmas Markets

Cornwall’s Christmas markets are perfect for gift hunting and festive cheer:

• Truro Christmas Market: Runs from 21st November to Christmas Eve, featuring over 100 stalls.

• Fowey Christmas Market: From 14th–16th November, enjoy local artisans, festive parades, and a chance to meet Santa.

• Pool Market Winter Wonderland: Open 21st November–4th January, with Santa’s grotto, ice rink, alpine bars, and fun fare for all the family.

Christmas Sea Swims & Surfing

Brave souls can enjoy a festive dip in the Atlantic on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year’s Day — some even dressed as Santa! Not a swimmer? Try surfing instead, with local surf schools hiring out wetsuits and boards during the season. (Check individual surf school websites for holiday hours.)

National Trust Adventures

Cornwall is home to incredible National Trust properties, perfect for festive exploration:

• Lanhydrock: Explore this Victorian house with gardens and 1,000 acres of parkland, woodland, and cycle trails.

• Levant Mine and Beam Engine: Family-friendly tours of the historic mining site.

• St Michael’s Mount: Wander the cobbled streets, enjoy harbour views, and treat yourself to a Christmas afternoon tea at the Island Café (booking advised).

Montol Festival: Celebrate Cornwall’s midwinter traditions on 21st December in Penzance, with masks, folklore, and festive cheer.

Christmas Theatre & Panto

Enjoy festive performances for the whole family:

• Truro’s Hall for Cornwall presents this year’s Christmas Panto, Aladdin.

• Rouge Theatre – Winter Wood at Tehidy Woods: An immersive magical walk through a dreamlike winter forest.

Winter Walks

Take advantage of quieter beaches and coastal paths. Winter walks in Cornwall are perfect for reconnecting with nature, followed by a cosy lunch in a welcoming pub. For inspiration, check out our [St Ives Winter Walks Guide].

Christmas in St Ives

St Ives is a charming harbour town, ideal for a festive getaway. With beaches, cosy pubs, and plenty of family activities, it’s the perfect place to spend Christmas.

At Cornish Riviera Holidays, we offer a wide range of self-catering properties in St Ives and the surrounding areas, perfect for families, friends, or couples looking to celebrate the season in comfort.

✨ Featured Properties:

• Gwel an Mor – Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms | 1 bathroom

• Lews Lookout – Sleeps 6 | 3 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms

• Flat 4, 10 Porthminster Terrace – Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms

• An Marghty – Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms | 1 bathroom

• 9 Mount Pleasant – Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms | 1 bathroom

• 1 The Links – Sleeps 4 | 2 bedrooms | 1 bathroom

Spend your Christmas in St Ives with Cornish Riviera Holidays and make festive memories that will last a lifetime.