Cornwall during the summer months is famously glorious. Endless beach days, cold local ciders, water sports, warm walks – the list goes on. Perhaps less widely enjoyed, however, are the incredible winter months down here on the coast. Cornwall is no less wondrous when the sun has ventured elsewhere. In fact, there’s even more magic to behold when the county turns colder! Here are our top 11 reasons why Cornwall is perfect for a winter holiday.
1. Quiet Beaches
If you’ve visited Cornwall during the summer season, then you know all too well that the beaches get hectic! This makes it a little more difficult to find that authentic Cornish experience. In winter, however, you’ll find the opposite. We have a plethora of stunning beaches here in Cornwall (over 300, in fact) and they’re all blissfully quiet during the colder months. So, swap your best bikini for a scarf and wellies and enjoy the fresh sea air and the wonderful, open space!
2. Storm Watching
Our sea storms are legendary down here on the coast! Think immense waves crashing against the rocks and showers of sea spray caught in the winds. We’re not short of great spots to sit and watch the elements do their thing, just make sure you don’t get too close!
3. Pooch’s Paradise
There’s so much for a dog to explore in Cornwall over the winter months! Most of the seasonal bans that exist in the summer are lifted, meaning your dog has miles to explore, run free, paddle their paws and play fetch!
4. Get a Table
In recent years, Cornwall has become a real foodie hotspot! With top-chefs setting up here including Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, Nathan Outlaw, Emily Scott and many more! Flying under the radar we also have a plethora of lesser-known hidden gems where you can indulge in some sensational dining experiences. Trying to get a table in one of these gourmet hotspots requires careful, advanced planning if you visit during the peak season, and it’s very unusual to find a walk-in anywhere for dinner. However, in winter, you’ll have your pick of the best places around. Find our recommendations for the best dining experiences in Newquay here!
5. Surf’s Up!
Surfing has absolutely boomed in popularity over the last few years. What was once a cult sport for a lucky local few is now accessible to anyone who fancies braving the Atlantic for an amazing, adrenaline pumping experience! One of the best things about Cornwall are the waves and multitude of surf schools ready to show you the ropes. Nowhere else in the U.K has a swell like ours, which is why in summer, the line up is full to the brim. In winter though, you’ll have space to practice your craft without fear of collision. What’s more, the waves are the gnarliest they get all year! Make sure you contact our friends at Escape Surf School for a lesson from the pros! Yes, the sea may be chilly but take our word for it, you’ll soon warm up! Cowabunga.
6. The Weather
The climate in Cornwall is different. Though you may be sat further North debating a third pair of socks before you venture out, you’ll find the weather down on the South West Coast is far milder than you might expect. Cornwall sits on the Eastern edge of the Gulf stream. This means it’s temperature is closer to that which you might find in Mediterranean resorts such as Benidorm or Naples. Don’t get us wrong, you’ll still need a coat and boots! But you’ll find that Cornwall is one of the warmest counties in U.K.
7. Gardens Galore
Thanks to the slightly milder climate down here, our gardens remain delightful all year round! Cornwall is full of famous gardens that offer stunning colours and a fabulous day out no matter the season. We recommend Lanhydrock, The Lost Gardens of Heligan and Trelissick to get you started!
8. Winter Wildlife
In summer, the crowds tend to make the wildlife shy. Often, guests will visit in the peak season in the hope of spotting some of our native animals, but find them to be pretty elusive! During the colder months, there is a far greater likelihood of hearing a tawny owl hooting to the night sky, feeling flitting bats overhead on your evening headland walk, spotting wild ponies on the moors, glimpsing pods of seals off the coast. Cornwall has a chance to exhale during Winter, and the extra space is enjoyed by all. If you’re lucky enough to make a sighting, be sure to stay well back and leave them to do their thing undisturbed.
9. Mousehole Harbour Lights
If you haven’t heard of the wonderful village of Mousehole, be prepared to be amazed! Mousehole is a stunning, quaint little harbour village on Cornwall’s West coast and is the location of the famous, heartwarming tale of the Mousehole Cat. Every Christmas, they put up their twinkling harbour lights and the entire village glows with wonder. The lights stay up until early January, and are well worth a visit for those who want to tap into the warmth and magic of the festive season.
10. Cosy Pubs
Do you like your winter trips to the pub to be filled with roaring fires, local ales and bags of tradition? You’re in luck! We just love a wrapped up walk on the Headland followed by a pint and some lunch by the crackle of a warm fire in a cosy pub. During the winter, you’ll enjoy an authentic experience free of crowds. What could be better?