Festive Breaks in Cornwall – Christmas markets, lights and more

Date October 2025

Here’s your guide to the very best festive things to do in Cornwall…

The Best Roast Dinners

Nothing says winter comfort quite like a perfectly cooked roast. Cornwall is home to some fantastic pubs and restaurants where you can tuck into roast dinners by crackling fires, with sea views just outside the window. These spots are sure to warm you up after a day of exploring festive Cornwall.

A festive getaway isn’t complete without a hearty roast. Luckily, Cornwall has some of the cosiest pubs and restaurants serving up the best roast dinners by the fire:

The Victoria Inn, Perranuthnoe – a cosy pub that serves a stellar roast dinner on a Sunday. Close to the beach so you can take a refreshing walk after. Book a table.
The Old Coastguard, Mousehole – A relaxed, stylish inn overlooking the sea with wonderful locally sourced dishes. Find out more.
Pandora Inn, Restronguet Creek – A waterside gem with roaring fires and traditional fare. Find out more.
Kota Kai, Porthleven – A family-friendly restaurant on the harbour, perfect for a Sunday roast with a view. Visit Kota Kai

Magical Christmas Lights

Cornwall’s villages and harbours transform into twinkling wonderlands at Christmas. From iconic harbour displays to creative community efforts, the county’s Christmas lights are a must-see part of the season. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and prepare to be dazzled.

Angarrack – Famous for its “Twelve Days of Christmas” light displays. Find out more.
Porthleven – Watch the harbour sparkle as the lights are switched on in Porthleven on 5th December with Santa and a festive vibe.
Mousehole – One of Cornwall’s most iconic festive attractions, with lights reflecting in the harbour waters from Thursday 11th December.

Christmas at the National Trust

Cornwall’s National Trust properties shine especially bright at Christmas. With historic houses dressed in festive decorations, glowing gardens, and seasonal activities for the whole family, these special places offer a magical way to celebrate the season.

Godolphin – Wander the grounds and enjoy seasonal activities. Christmas at Godolphin
Trelissick – A magical setting for festive family fun. Christmas at Trelissick

Festive Markets in Cornwall

Christmas shopping doesn’t get much better than Cornwall’s festive markets. Brimming with local crafts, delicious treats, and unique gifts, they’re the perfect way to find something special while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Pick up unique gifts, sample local treats, and enjoy the festive atmosphere at one of Cornwall’s Christmas markets:

Porthleven Christmas Market – 5–7 December, with the Christmas lights switch-on at 7pm on the 5th. Find out more
Truro Christmas Market – 21 November – 24 December 2025 at Lemon Quay. Find out more
Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair, Truro Cathedral – 14–15 November, showcasing 60+ Cornish makers. Find out more
St Ives Christmas Market, Tregenna Castle – 21–23 November, perfect for browsing handmade gifts. Find out more.
Cornwall Christmas Fair at the Eden Project – 19–20 November – Head to the famous Eden Project for a vibrant Christmas fair, raising funds of the Cornwall Community Foundation – More info

Festivals and Festive Theatre

Cornwall has a rich cultural scene, and at Christmas it really comes alive. From ancient midwinter traditions to enchanting outdoor performances, these festivals and theatre experiences will add a touch of magic to your festive break. For something truly unique, step into Cornwall’s vibrant cultural traditions:

Montol Festival, Penzance – A revival of Cornish midwinter traditions. More details
Rogue Theatre’s Winter Wood – An enchanting woodland theatre experience for all ages. Discover Winter Wood

Brave the Christmas Swims

For the adventurous, Cornwall’s Christmas and Boxing Day swims are legendary. Thousands take to the sea every year, often in fancy dress, for a bracing festive dip. Whether you’re diving in or cheering from the shore, these swims are unforgettable local traditions.

Christmas Day Swims
- 11am – Porthleven Harbour
- 12.30pm – Coverack Harbour (a long-standing tradition, often in fancy dress!)
Boxing Day Swim
- 11am – Poldhu Beach – complete with hot chocolates, mulled wine, and fundraising for charity.

Festive Foraging

Why not add something a little different to your Christmas break? Cornwall’s foraging experiences let you explore the winter landscape in a whole new way. Guided by experts, you’ll learn about seasonal wild foods and reconnect with nature, even in the colder months. Join a festive foraging course near Penzance with Fat Hen or explore seasonal offerings with Cornish Foraging.

Book Your Festive Break in Cornwall

With twinkling lights, festive markets, and wintery coastal walks, Cornwall is the perfect place to celebrate the festive feeling. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a full festive break, you’ll find plenty to make your time by the sea truly magical.

Give yourself the gift of a festive break in Cornwall – book your Christmas stay today.

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