There is nothing more magical than Christmas in Cornwall, with inviting warm pubs, crisp coastal walks and twinkling lights strung across village streets. At Old Lanwarnick, we couldn’t be more prepared for the festive season, with our luxury countryside cottages decorated and complete with a real Christmas tree, ready to welcome you, your loved ones and your furry friends to our cosy corner of the coast over Christmas and New Year. We even have an extra special visitor coming to Old Lanwarnick this year! Come and meet Santa and his elves and with help from our wonderful local stables, indulge in a mince pie with his horses who are letting the reindeer have a rest during his stop with us. If that wasn’t enough to entice you down to Old Lanwarnick, check out what other festivities are occurring around the coast.
Christmas in Cornwall; Ice skating at the Eden Project
Lace up your skates and hit the rink at the Eden Project! Fun for the whole family, book in for a casual session on the ice or have skate lessons over selected mornings and evenings if you are here for a longer stay with us. Offering skating from October to February, there is plenty of time to make the most of the rink and explore the beautiful biomes afterward. The Eden Project even offers parent and toddler ice play sessions for a truly magical experience in a winter wonderland, guaranteed to get everyone in the festive mood.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Explore The Lost Gardens of Heligan as you wander along the trail taking in the woodlands and gardens, all beautifully lit with illuminated installations and lanterns. Working with The Lantern Company, the trail holds up a magnifying glass to the often-overlooked wonders and beauty of nature on our doorstep. Take the one-mile-long journey at your own pace, stopping to toast marshmallows by the stunning fire bowls, take in the festive smells and experience the glittering oak trees amid a festive backdrop on a winter’s evening.
Christmas in Cornwall, Cotehele
Enjoy a festive day out to Cotehele, the National Trust-run Tudor house with medieval roots, glorious gardens and an expansive estate. Step into the Great Hall to see the spectacular 60-foot garland, built by Cotehele’s gardeners from thousands of flowers grown on the estate, a glorious tradition that first began back in 1956. Afterwards, visit the Cotehele Mill, decorated for a family Christmas, before heading out on a frosty walk across the gardens.
Boxing Day swim
As is tradition across many beaches in Cornwall, why not join the locals for a boxing day swim? Don your warmest swimwear and a Christmas hat to run into the waves with the crowd and see how long you can stay in! Brave the icy plunge, often in aid of a worthwhile charity, before returning to cosy Old Lanwarnick to warm up in time for a Boxing Day feast and quality time with the family, or perhaps a dip in the hot tub.
Woodland walk
Bundle up warm and get lost in our 34 acres of unspoiled countryside full of wildlife. Discover the joy of muddy woodland walks with your four-legged friend in peace and quiet or bring the whole family out to stretch their legs after a delicious Christmas dinner. Alternatively, go for an evening stroll before warming up in front of the fire and settling into your comfortable bed before another day of experiencing Christmas in Cornwall.
Christmas lights
What is more magical than the sparkle and warm glow of Christmas lights? From manger scenes and town Christmas trees to snowflakes and even creatures below the sea, Cornish Christmas lights truly are a spectacle in many of our villages. Some of our favourites include Mevagissey, Looe, Newlyn and Mousehole where you can wander around the harbour, hot drink in hand and admire the reflection of the famous lights glinting on the water.
Christmas in Cornwall, a Santa special at Bodmin Railway
Experience Santa by steam at Bodmin Railway as he and his elves join you for your train ride. Listen to his bells as he walks through the coach jingling away, chatting, eating mince pies and gifting presents. Write your wish list on the train while you wait for him to greet you and once you depart, you’ll get the chance to see Santa’s Victorian carriage and snap lots of photos before partaking in Christmas themed-arts and crafts activities. The station will be decked out with wreaths, garlands, fairy lights and a giant Christmas tree, accompanied by a brass band playing Christmas carols. What could be more festive?
Late night shopping at Wadebridge
If you want to pick up some last-minute presents from fantastic local artisans, makers and bakers, make sure to visit Wadebridge and make the most of shops and businesses staying open until late! Indulge yourself at the same time with a delicious hot chocolate (or mulled cider!), pre-present buying dinner from a local pub or restaurant, or simply a wander around to take in all that Wadebridge has to offer.
For a Christmas and New Year by the sea, browse our range of self-catering cottages to indulge in Cornwall’s winter wonderland and get yourself in the mood for the festivities. From exploring the coast to relaxing by a crackling pub fire, there is something here for everyone and we can’t wait to host you for a magical Christmas. Book your magical escape with Old Lanwarnick.
