December is one of the best times of year for a Cornwall break, with an array of special events for all ages and tastes, twinkling lights adorning the many atmospheric harbours, and all of those fabulous beaches and breathtaking stretches of countryside virtually to yourselves (the Cornwall section of theSouth West Coastal Path is perfect for walking off all those mince pies!). And when it’s time to warm back up, our cosy self-catering options – including lodges, cottages and cabins – are the perfect place to snuggle up with a hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine.
Cornwall’s larger towns and cities – including Truro and Falmouth – host ongoing celebrations that vary but might include the lights of festive illuminations, live music, carol-singing and late-night shopping. Cornwall also has an array of independent boutiques in which to find inspiration for one-off gifts – perhaps some local artisan crafts or regional food and drink. You’re also surrounded by a wealth of village inns, pubs and restaurants, (not forgetting our onsite restaurant, The Kitchen By The Beach) – both by the sea and in the countryside – offering seasonal treats and Christmas menus galore.
Whether you stay at The Park as a family, with friends or as a couple, we’ve shared some of our top things to do in Cornwall at Christmas.
Padstow Christmas Festival, 20mins from The Park
Celebrity chefs’ appearances and demos, food and drinks tastings, and all-round festive fun in the iconic fishing village made famous by chef and seafood restaurateur Rick Stein.
1 to 4 Dec 2022
Ice Skating and Father Christmas at the Eden Project, Bodelva, 30mins from The Park
The annual ice rink at the global gardens in their tropical biomes, along with visits to Santa and his elves.
The annual ice rink at the global gardens in their tropical biomes, along with visits to Santa and his elves.
Ice rink: now until 19 Feb 2022
Healey's Cornish Christmas Markets, Penhallow, 30mins from The Park
Cornwall’s only Christmas market set on a working farm.
12 Nov to 18 Dec 2022
Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair, Truro, 35mins from The Park
A haven of inspiration for Christmas gifts, all produced locally, from pottery to hand-made chocolates.
25 Nov to 26 Nov 2022
Fowey Christmas Market, 50mins from The Park
Festive entertainment and food and drink along with great Christmas shopping in the lovely harbour town associated with writer Daphne du Maurier.
2 to 4 Dec 2022
Treasure Island, Falmouth, 60mins from The Park
Miracle Theatre’s Christmas spectacular, based on the famous adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson.
13 Dec 2022 to 5 Jan 2023
Mousehole Christmas Lights, 75mins from The Park Cornwall
An Christmas institution in the region, with floating light displays in the harbour and stalls selling festive treats and mulled wine in the surrounding streets. Other great Christmas lights can be found in Angarrack and Looe.
12 Dec 2022 to 6 Jan 2023
Book your self-catering Christmas break in Cornwall now