6 Things to do in Cornwall this Christmas | Select Cornwall | 2020

Swap your sun cream and sunglasses for fluffy jumpers and bobble hats! Explore your favourite Cornish beauty spots at the most wonderful time of the year. This Christmas is going to be different to most, so why not experience something new and enjoy some festive fun in Cornwall! 

Take a look at our top 6 suggestions of things to do in Cornwall this Christmas.

Please note that due to the current lockdown in England, events are subject to alterations and cancellations, so please check the links for any bookable events before attending. 

1. Go Ice Skating at the Eden Project

   
   
   What’s more magical than ice skating at Christmas? Enjoy a 40-minute session on Eden’s glittering ice rink.
   
   Due to social distancing, the Eden Project have significantly reduced the number of skaters allowed on the ice at one time, so you can enjoy more space on the ice to skate around!
   
   For families, enjoy a “Family Fun Skate”, a family focussed skating session for families with children under 12! These sessions have dedicated time slots and include free use of skating aids.
   
   Prices: Please note that prices are based on peak dates & times
   
   General Skating: Adults £10, Child £8, Family (4 x tickets) £32, Skating aid hire £4
   
   Family Fun Skate: Adults £8, Child £7
   
   Peak dates: Weekends from 4pm, 4^th– 6^thDecember 2020, 11^th– 13^thDecember 2020, 16^th-17^thDecember 2020, 18^thDecember 2020 – 3^rdJanuary 2021.
   
   Please note that pre-booking is required for ice skating and admission to the Eden Project. Click here to check availability. 
   
   

2. Visit the Christmas Market at Heartlands

   
   
   Get into the Christmas spirit at the Heartlands Christmas market. With plenty of indoor and outdoor stalls, you’ll certainly find those extra special Christmas gifts for your loved ones!
   
   Indulge in some delicious festive food, with a number of street food vendors or the Heartlands Red River Café to choose from. 
   
   Price: FREE
   
   Dates: 5^th December 2020, 6^th December 2020
   
   Please note that this event requires pre-booking. Click here to book your ticket!
   
   Check out Trevithick Retreat Cottage, which is within walking distance of Heartlands!

3. See Santa at Lappa Valley

   Experience the wonderful Lappa Valley at Christmas time, with a magical steam train journey, seasonal refreshments and festive fun for all ages!
   
   Visit Father Christmas in his socially-distanced grotto (new for 2020!) and receive a present.
   
   Prices: Adult £13.99, Child (1-15 with present from Santa) £13.99, Child (0-1 with present from Santa) £8.99, Child (0-1 with no present from Santa) FREE
   
   Dates: 5^th December 2020, 6^th December 2020, 12^th December 2020, 13^th December 2020, 19^th– 24^th December 2020.

Please note that pre-booking is required and remaining tickets are limited. Click here to book.

4. Go storm watching!

   
   
   Cornwall’s Atlantic coast in particular takes the brunt of many a storm during the winter months. From a safe distance, go storm chasing this Christmas and see Cornwall’s rugged coastline in a different light. With huge waves and strong winds, its important that you don’t venture too close to the coast or cliff edges.
   
   There are plenty of safe places to watch the magnificent storms, including Select Cornwall’s beautiful Bass Point cottage, which has stunning views of The Lizard. 
   
   

5. Enjoy a Christmas Coastal Walk

   
   
   There’s nothing better than a coastal walk along some of the most picturesque paths in Cornwall at Christmas time. You may need a few extra layers to keep you warm, but the views are just as beautiful and the crisp air works wonders to blow away any cobwebs!
   
   Potentially one of the most picturesque coastal paths in Cornwall, enjoy the 4.2 mile path from St Agnes to Porthtowan. Taking approximately 2 hours to walk one way, this moderate route offers breath taking views along the way.
   
   The path ventures past the former tin mine Wheal Coates, which has history dating back to 1692. The old engine houses have a stunning backdrop of the North coast and Atlantic Ocean! It’s the perfect path to walk along for a Christmas coastal walk.
   
   

6. Take a dip in the sea!

   
   
   For those brave enough to strip for a Christmas dip, venture to one of Cornwall’s 300+ beaches for a festive swim in the chilly sea.
   
   Swimming in cold water is said to be totally exhilarating and it even has physical and mental health benefits!
   
   This festive activity may not be for everybody, but if it does take your fancy, please be sure to follow the safety advice of The Outdoor Swimming Societybefore your cold water swim.