on 06/11/2023
This is your guide to the best Christmas events and family attractions in Cornwall, along with stunning nearby accommodation to suit everyone. Cornwall has it all at Christmas - a cosy atmosphere, picturesque villages, peaceful beaches and beautiful walks, and a rich community spirit and cultural heritage.. As the festive season approaches, Cornwall transforms into a magical wonderland, with its small towns welcoming holidaymakers to host light switch ons, markets, fairs and even Christmas festivals.
Cornwall is a destination to create special, heartwarming memories with your loved ones, Christmas memories here will last a life time.
Among the pretty and idylic towns and villages, Truro stands out as a fantastic base to stay for a Christmas break, as it hosts arguably Cornwall’s largest Christmas market ‘The BIG Christmas Market’!
This festive market runs from 29th November until Christmas Eve. Strategically located in the heart of the county, staying in Truro means you're never too far from Cornwall's key attractions and you’re snug between the north and south coast.
The famous Angarrack lights are a must visit, and are located just 20 minutes away from Truro. The illuminations will start from the 2nd December. The beautiful illuminations take you on a tour around the village with displays of the ’12 days of Christmas’. You can visit daily between 5.30-9.30pm.
Falmouth hosts a huge seasonal extravaganza that takes over the town and many of it’s inhabiting businesses- with giant snow globe, ice rink, festive train and ‘snowy streets’!
Check out these 5* luxury family friendly cottages, some have their own hot tub!
With the Eden Project less than an hours drive away too, head for a special day exploring the biomes and then hit the Eden’s festive ice rink!
From the 17th November you can travel through these reclaimed gardens at night, strewn with lanterns and illuminated woodland creatures along twinkling lit trails! Nibble on some roasted chestnuts and toast some marshmallows over the fire too. Santa and his elves will also be making special appearances, as well as the gardens hosting special roast dinner lunches through out December in the Heligan Kitchen.
Starting early from the 25th November, this is an event to really get the family in the spirit of Christmas. Visit the UK’s longest tunnel of lights installation in Charlestown! The museum is a UNESCO world heritage site and is based in Charlestown harbour- famous for featuring in Poldark. The historic tunnels are lit up with a record breaking amount of lights, and the event also has a giant snow globe you can climb inside.
Expect snow machines and grotto style rooms, filled with fun activities for everyone. Peak and off peak time tickets are available.
Stay at The Valley Cottages in Truro, just a 45 minute drive from Charlestown.
One of the most beautiful and romantic destinations in Cornwall - St Ives. Much quieter and even more enchanting in the Winter, visit on Boxing Day for a very memorable dip or swim in the sea on the north coast!
Once you’ve braved the Atlantic, head back to a warm cottage with a steamy hot tub and a log fire and get ready for delicious roast dinner left overs in your home from home. There are lots of other Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year swimming events across Cornwall too.
It’s also only 22 miles from Mousehole Harbour - famous for their magical Christmas lights, an absolute must!
The Mousehole Harbour Lights originally started in 1963. The quays attract thousands of visitors each December, visit between 5-10pm daily, besides the 19th December.
Running between 1st- 3rd December, these vibrant markets line up along the waterside surrounding the shipyard. Porthleven is well known for it’s enchanting harbour, particularly in stormy season! Visit the indoor and outdoor markets for the ultimate festive shopping spree and shop the best of local produce and meet independent makers. Porthleven is home to some incredible eateries too.
Take a walk over the causeway and wander around St Michael’s mount at this magical time of the year, there is free access to the village and harbour during the festive period. Make sure to buy tickets in advance to the castle and check opening times.
