Your guide to winter in Cornwall: our pick of things to do & see

Join us for Christmas at our Penmarlam and Padstow holiday parks, where the magic of Cornwall in winter awaits. Picture yourself enjoying crisp coastal walks along dramatic, rugged landscapes before retreating to the warmth of a cosy haven. From heartwarming festivities to breathtaking scenery, there’s something special for everyone to experience this festive season.

Discover the magic of a winter getaway in Cornwall

Out of season, Cornwall transforms into an idyllic retreat, offering landscapes made even more stunning with the crisp winter air and a peaceful serenity that summer simply can’t provide. Winter in Cornwall means waking up to frost-kissed fields and enjoying the cosy charm of a seaside escape—without the summer crowds.

The best things to do, see and visit in Cornwall during winter

Whether you’re soaking up the festive spirit at Padstow’s Nadelik Lowen by the harbour, wandering through the Christmas Artisan Fairs in Bodmin and Wadebridge, or experiencing the magic of Truro Cathedral’s Christmas Market, Cornwall transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. Embrace the atmosphere with highlights such as the whimsical Doggy Festive Market in Wadebridge, festive light switch-ons from Trenance Cottages in Newquay to Truro city centre, and the much-loved Santa by Steam at Bodmin and Wenford Railway. With activities ranging from wreath-making workshops in St. Merryn to cosy carol singing, winter reveals a whole new side to one of our favourite staycation destinations.

Wrap up for a wintry walk along the South West Coast Path

With the summer crowds not due back until the spring, you can enjoy up to 300 miles of Cornish coastline in peace. Simply choose your route and pick a crisp, sunny day to pull on your walking boots, coat, scarf and hat. After a bracing walk, you can hang your hat back up again at at Padstow and Penmarlam this Christmas.

With so much choice, you might like a helping hand deciding which section you want to tackle… take a look at our guide to the best parts and sections on the South West Coast Path.

One part that looks particularly spectacular at any time of year, but particularly during winter, is Fowey. The panoramas offered by a walk around its world-famous estuary can hardly be bettered, with opportunities to cruise along cliff tops, National Trust beaches and past historic fortifications.

The 16th-century St Catherine’s Castle, Fowey.

Get that winter surf (or just savour a refreshing wintertime stroll)

For those willing to brace the cold, Cornwall’s empty beaches make winter a great time to catch a wave. While it’s not recommended to surf alone in the winter months as there are no lifeguards on duty, experienced surfers will enjoy soaking up The Atlantic swell without all of the newbies.

When it comes to beaches near us, some of the best surf is served up on Fistral beach (near Sun Haven Holiday Park) or Gwithian Towans (close to our Parbola Holiday Park).

However, as any white water wave rider will tell you, the entire region is a treasure trove of fantastic pro-surf shores. We’ve even written a guide to eight of the best surfing beaches in Cornwall for all abilities.

Soak up the festivities at the Eden Project

Dates: 22nd November to Christmas Eve 2024

If the weather isn’t cooperating, the incredible biomes of The Eden Project offer a perfect refuge to stay dry and warm while exploring the renowned experimental gardens. From 22nd November, The Eden Project will be hosting a magical experience where families can meet Father Christmas and his elves, who are busy preparing for Christmas. The event features an enchanting log cabin, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the festive preparations. During this unforgettable 40-minute experience, children will meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift to take home. Don’t miss the separate Christmas fair also taking place on 28th November.

Get into the spirit at Nadelik Lowen at Padstow Harbour

• Dates: 30th November 2024

Come down to Nadelik Lowen 2024 at our favourite harbour. There will be plenty of local craft stalls, free fairground rides, talented musicians, and a special Christmas lights switch-on held by the elves!

Once you’ve enjoyed all the festivities, you can head back to Padstow Holiday Village and cosy up in front of the TV with a warm hot chocolate.

Find that festive feeling at the Fowey Christmas Market

• Dates: 22nd – 24th November 2024

Nestled in the idyllic town of Fowey, this annual tradition transforms the cobbled streets into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights and artisanal treasures. Wander through charming stalls offering handcrafted gifts, savour the scents of mulled wine and festive treats, and enjoy live performances that fill the air with holiday melodies. It’s the perfect place for holiday shopping, indulging in culinary delights, and creating cherished memories beside a historic harbour. Even better, it’s just a 2 minute ferry from Penmarlam Lodge Retreat, open to guests throughout November and December.

All aboard the Santa Express

• Date: From 2nd December 2024

The Bodmin and Wenford Railway will be hosting its enchanting Santa by Steam event. Families can enjoy a scenic steam train ride through the beautiful Cornish countryside while meeting Father Christmas. Each child will receive a special gift, making it a perfect festive outing. The event runs throughout December, and tickets can be booked on the Bodmin and Wenford Railway’s website. Don’t miss this magical holiday experience!

See the New Year in in Padstow

• Date:31st December 2024

Padstow is hosting a variety of events at local restaurants, making it a popular destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Visitors are encouraged to book their reservations early to secure their spots. Additionally, there will be fireworks in the harbour to ring in the New Year. The Upper Deck in Rock is also hosting a special NYE event, with more details available on their website.

In the meantime, why not book your New Year stay at Padstow Holiday Village?

Explore some history at one of Cornwall’s many castles

Cornwall’s world-famous for its splendid coast. In times past, this came with the need to defend it from external threats. Duly, there are no shortage of fantastic, mind blowing examples of fortifications of yesteryear decorating Cornwall’s coast.

Open year round, St Michael’s Mount and Tintagel Castle are perhaps the most famous of the mediaeval structures, but depending on your location, consider heading to Pendennis (Falmouth), St Catherine’s (Fowey) and St Mawes — to name just a few.

Even in land, you’ll find some fantastic fortifications to explore, including Restormel, Trematon and Launceston. Although they’re usually open year round, to avoid disappointment, be sure to check on the website before you head out.

For an equally historic day that’s not so castle related, Bodmin Jail is another fantastic year-round experience. Great for a wintertime day out when the weather’s not playing ball.

Take a frosty walk through The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Dates: 29^th November – Tuesday 24^th December 2024

This festive season, visit The Lost Gardens of Heligan in St Austell to meet Father Christmas! While the gardens are beautiful in summer, they take on a striking charm in winter.

Spanning over 200 acres, The Lost Gardens feature a variety of historic gardens, each uniquely designed. In the lead-up to Christmas, families can enjoy a magical illuminations walk through the Night Gardens, which will be beautifully lit for an unforgettable experience

Escape to Cornwall this winter

With Christmas in full swing, the fires crackling and mulled wine flowing freely, Cornwall is a truly magical festive experience — and that’s not to mention that you’ll almost have its beaches and coastal hotspots to yourself. Who knows, you might even be treated to a spot of wintertime sun!

Join us year round at one of our four luxury holiday parks in Cornwall. Whether you’re camping oe touring, booking a luxury lodge or even getting rustic in a shepherd’s hut, we offer a range of accommodation types to suit your family. Fido’s welcome, too — all of our parks are completely dog friendly.

Which park will you choose next year?

Fancy having Cornwall’s countryside, world-class coast and the wintertime magic of St Ives at your fingertips? Head to our Parbola Holiday Park. For world-famous cuisine, Rick Stein’s culinary delights and harbourside festive fun, you might like to escape to Padstow Holiday Village. Wake up to panoramic views of the famous Fowey estuary at Penmarlam Lodge Retreat, or enjoy crisp morning walks along Mawgan Porth’s Blue Flag beach at Sun Haven Holiday Park.

If you wanted to return time and again, you might also be interested to know that we offer holiday home ownership in Cornwall.

Stay a while in Cornwall this winter.

See this stunning region in a different light. We can’t wait to welcome you to our Cornish parks this winter.

Discover our luxury holiday parks in Cornwall