Wondering what’s on in Cornwall throughout November and December? Here’s my guide for events and things to do!
It definitely feels like Winter has finally set in – hello darkness at 4pm and a frosty morning chill in the air! But just because it might be a bit wetter and colder this season, doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. Luckily there’s plenty going on here in Cornwall, and below are some of the best bits.
Explore the Shipwreck Museum’s Tunnel of Lights
The Shipwreck Museum in Charlestown has a new immersive experience available to book daily until early January! The ‘Tunnel of Lights: Arctic Adventure’ leads you through the museum’s underground tunnels as though you’re travelling through a giant iceberg, lit up with twinkling lights. Discover evidence of a ship wreckage as walk through these old tramways, and your ticket also includes entry to the museum afterwards as well.
This is a great winter activity for young kids! Book your slot on the museum’s website.
Festivities at the Lost Gardens of Heligan
The enchanting Lost Gardens of Heligan have plenty of festive events going on throughout November and December, including a Night Lantern experience and Father Christmas’ grotto, plus remember you can book your Christmas party night or lunchtime roast here as well.
Visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan’s website.
Visit a Cornish Christmas Craft Market
There are loads of Cornish craft fairs going on in the lead up to Christmas to help you support local makers in your gift buying! Below are just a few:
- Fowey Christmas Market (26th – 28th November)
- Penyrn Creative Christmas Market (4th December)
- The Great Christmas Market at The Alverton Hotel (5th December)
- Heartlands Christmas Market (4th – 5th December)
- Local Food & Drink Christmas Shopping at Knightor Winery (10th and 17th December)
Try Ice Skating at the Eden Project
Every year Cornwall gets its own ice skating rink from November to February! Book your slot or skate lesson, and enjoy a day wandering around the beautiful gardens and stay toasty in the incredible tropical biome while you’re there!
Learn more on the Eden Project website
Grab a Hot Chocolate on Your Winter Beach Walk
No event or booking needed, just head to your favourite beach cafe and grab yourself a delicious hot chocolate and take in the wintery scenery. Definitely one of my favourite winter activities!
If you need inspiration, read my blog post on the best hot chocolates in Cornwall.
Make Your Own Christmas Wreaths
There are usually loads of wreath making workshops going on all around Cornwall at this time of year, and I love creating my own as a tradition. This year there are definitely fewer thanks to COVID, but if you have a look locally to you, you may just find one!
The Muddy Stilettos blog have made a really useful wreath workshop list of some happening around the county too.
Visit the Mousehole Lights
After last year’s famous Mousehole Lights switch on was cancelled thanks to a COVID lockdown, I’m excited that it will be back again this year! This quaint little fishing village hosts thousands of visitors each year to come and view the festive lights reflected off the ocean.
While there won’t be an official switch on event to avoid too many crowds, the lights will be turned on to go and view from mid December. Read more on the Mousehole Lights website!
Enjoy a Sophisticated Cocktail Evening
Grab your friends and enjoy a couple of post-work cocktails at either the Greenbank Hotel in Falmouth (for ‘Holly’s Cocktail Club’ on a Friday after 5pm), or the Alverton Hotel in Truro for the Thursday cocktail club (after 5pm) – both are doing an offer of two cocktails for Β£10!
Join in the Famous Montol Festival in Penzance
Montol is the Cornish celebration of midwinter solstice on 21st December, and it’s a big thing in Penzance! Locals dress up in masks, create lanterns, and light the ‘Yule Log’ as the darkness settles. It’s definitely an experience worth seeing!
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