If you're not sure if Cornwall is the right winter destination for you, consider this... In the winter you have all the stunning beaches, trails, gardens and heritage sites pretty much to yourself. Parking is cheap and plentiful, accommodation is very reasonably priced and there is plenty of choice AND Cornwall tends to stay that little bit warmer than the rest of the country, great if you're not a fan of the bitter cold!
So here is our selection of the best things to do if you are visiting this stunning county in the winter.
1. Festive activities
If you are feeling festive there are a number of magical experiences for you. The Eden project and Heligan gardens both put on a spectacular light shows. These run throughout December and tend to finish in the new year so be sure not to miss it! Eden project also offers ice skating all the way through to February. If you also happen to be in Cornwall for New Years eve be sure to check out the amazing fire work displays. The towns of Newquay, St Ives and Looe are just a few of the places that tend to put on a good show!
2. Walk the coastal path
The south west coastal trail wraps all the way around Cornwall and so you can pretty much go to any point along the coast to start your walk! There are plenty of coastal towns and national trust car parks you can begin from. Some of my favourite routes include Hemmick Beach to Dodman Point, Gribbin Head walk, St Agnes to Porthtowan and Lands End to Porthcurno. I find winter is the nicest time to do the coastal walks as its not hot, easy to find parking and you'll have the places more or less to yourself. Winter time brings dramatic skies and beautiful colours. Be sure to wrap up warm and wear proper footwear as the trails may be wet/muddy
3. Cosy up by a log fire in a 13th century pub
Visit one of the many old traditional pubs serving delicious, quality food and local ales. Some of my favourite spots are Polgooth Inn in St Austell, Pandora Inn in Falmouth and Crown Inn in Bodmin just to mention a few! All have traditional log fires and great menus.
4. Visit some unique museums
If the weather really isn't playing ball you always have the option of staying indoors by visiting Cornwall's fascinating museums. How about The Shipwreck Museum in Charlestown, the impressive National Maritime Museum in Falmouth or something more quirky like the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. Museums not your thing..? No problem, how about a tour of the St Austell Brewery - the regions largest and best known brewery ! They have a great visitors centre where you can taste the brews and a great bar/restaurant on site which serves delicious food.
5. Cornish heritage sites
Another great all-weather activity is to visit some of the heritage sites... and there is no shortage of historical castles and ruins in Cornwall. Visiting these in the winter means you skip the crowds and can enjoy the place in peace. Some of the our favourites include Tintagel Castle, Restormel, St Michaels Mount or maybe Landhydrock House if you prefer to stay dry and warm!