Your Ultimate Christmas Guide to Cornwall

Cornwall, with its rugged coastline, charming villages, and festive spirit, transforms into a magical holiday destination during Christmas. From twinkling lights illuminating quaint streets to the delicious scent of mulled wine filling the air, Cornwall offers a cosy and unforgettable Christmas experience. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a peaceful retreat, this guide will help you make the most of the festive season in this beautiful corner of the UK.

1. Christmas Markets and Festive Shopping

Cornwall is home to several vibrant Christmas markets, where you can find locally crafted gifts, seasonal food, and unique festive items. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:

• Truro Christmas Market: Located in the heart of Cornwall's cathedral city, this market brings festive cheer to the cobbled streets with a mix of artisan goods, food stalls, and Christmas decorations. Browse handmade crafts, try local produce, and enjoy the beautiful cathedral lights.
• Fowey Christmas Market: This scenic riverside town is a holiday haven, with a delightful market featuring handcrafted gifts, food stalls, and live performances. The whole town gets into the spirit, with Christmas lights decorating the streets, making it a perfect spot for a winter wander.
• Padstow Christmas Festival: Known for its culinary excellence, Padstow’s Christmas Festival is a foodie’s dream. With celebrity chefs, food stalls, and local produce, you’ll be able to taste your way through the season. Don’t miss the festive food and drink tastings, as well as the beautiful festive lights in the town.

2. Festive Events and Light Displays

Christmas in Cornwall isn’t just about shopping—it’s about soaking in the festive atmosphere. Many towns and villages celebrate the season with incredible events and magical light displays:

• The Eden Project – Christmas at Eden: One of Cornwall’s most iconic attractions, the Eden Project hosts a Christmas celebration that includes a magical Christmas ice rink, festive plants and decorations, and a winter wonderland filled with seasonal surprises. The stunning Eden Project Biomes are beautifully adorned with Christmas lights, making this a must-visit spot for families.
• St Ives Christmas Lights: The charming coastal town of St Ives is known for its stunning Christmas lights. The display illuminates the narrow streets, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Walk along the harbour and enjoy the sea air, all while taking in the festive lights.
• Bodmin & Wenford Railway Santa Specials: For a family-friendly experience, take a magical ride on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway Santa Specials. Enjoy a nostalgic steam train journey while Father Christmas makes a special appearance, handing out gifts to children along the way.

3. Christmas Day Walks and Coastal Escapes

For many, Christmas Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a refreshing winter walk along Cornwall’s stunning coastlines or through its historic countryside.

• The South West Coast Path: Stretching for 630 miles, this iconic coastal path offers some of the most stunning walks in the UK. Choose a scenic route along the Cornish coast and enjoy the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and expansive sea views. Whether you're walking in St. Ives or Newquay, the fresh winter air and peaceful surroundings will provide the perfect Christmas Day escape.
• Fowey to Polruan Walk: This short but beautiful walk takes you along the Fowey River, with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The quiet trails and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect location for a tranquil Christmas walk.

4. Festive Food and Drink

No Christmas celebration is complete without delicious food, and Cornwall offers an abundance of festive treats to enjoy during the holiday season. From traditional Christmas dinners to unique Cornish twists, you’re in for a treat.

• Cornish Christmas Pasty: While the Cornish pasty is famous all year round, try the Cornish Christmas Pasty—filled with festive ingredients like turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing for a seasonal twist on this beloved local dish.
• Christmas Cream Tea: You can’t visit Cornwall without enjoying a traditional cream tea. For Christmas, many cafes and tearooms serve a seasonal variation with festive scones, clotted cream, and jam.
• Cornish Seafood Feast: Cornwall is known for its fresh seafood, and many restaurants offer a festive seafood feast during the holidays. Fresh oysters, lobster, and crab are perfect for a luxurious Christmas meal by the sea.

5. Day Trips and Festive Experiences

Make the most of your Christmas visit to Cornwall by taking part in some of the unique experiences the region offers during the festive season:

• Visit the Minack Theatre: The world-famous Minack Theatre on the cliffs of Porthcurno offers a magical setting for performances during the holiday season. Watch a Christmas-themed play or enjoy a festive walk around the theatre’s dramatic clifftop gardens.
• **The Christmas Lights at Mount Edgcumbe House: For an enchanting experience, head to Mount Edgcumbe House in East Cornwall. This stately home and its gardens are beautifully illuminated for Christmas, and there are often festive events, including Christmas fairs and carol concerts.

Cornwall is an ideal place to experience a cosy, festive Christmas, whether you’re enjoying its charming Christmas markets, taking in the magical light displays, or relaxing in a cosy seaside cottage. With so much to offer, from festive food to stunning winter walks, Cornwall provides the perfect destination for making Christmas memories. Explore Cornwall this Christmas season for an unforgettable holiday experience filled with warmth, beauty, and festive cheer.

Plan your Christmas Holiday with Together Travel

Whenever you are travelling in Cornwall or anywhere else in the UK, Together Travel Co. is here to bring your holiday dreams to life. All across the UK, we have luxurious, comfortable, unique properties located wherever you want to be. Find out how we can make your trip amazing by contacting our expert concierge team at +44(0)1625 416430 or emailing us for more information.