With its golden beaches, stunning coastline, and rolling countryside, Cornwall is often thought of as a summer destination. However, Cornwall is just as magical in the autumn and winter months. Bracing coastal walks, festive activities, cosy pubs, and charming restaurants make it the perfect location for an out-of-season break. Here are our top eight suggestions for things to do in Cornwall out of season.
1. Enjoy Some Quiet Beaches
Cornwall has over 300 beaches, many of which are packed with tourists in the summer. During the winter, however, the sands are mostly empty, visited only by walkers and the occasional surfer. A long walk along a quiet beach, with a pale winter sky and invigorating sea breeze, is the perfect way to refresh and enjoy some peace before a warming roast dinner or a mug of hot chocolate.
2. Visit Christmas Markets
Cornwall has a wealth of Christmas markets during the festive season. From the Truro Christmas Fayre to the Bude Castle Christmas Fayre, you are sure to find one near your holiday accommodation. Browse for unique gifts, enjoy mulled wine, and soak up the festive atmosphere in the heart of Cornwall.
3. Catch Some Waves
For surf enthusiasts, winter is actually the best time to catch the waves in Cornwall. Beaches are quieter, and the surf conditions are often ideal. Many surf schools remain open during the colder months, offering lessons and equipment so you can enjoy a safe and exhilarating experience despite the chill.
4. Make the Most of Cornwall’s Museums
If the weather takes a turn, Cornwall’s museums offer plenty of indoor entertainment. The National Maritime Museum in Falmouth explores seafaring history and Viking culture, while the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle features the world’s largest collection of witchcraft artefacts and regalia. These attractions are perfect for a rainy afternoon.
5. Meet the Seals
Autumn and winter are pupping seasons for female grey seals along the Cornish coast. See the adorable white seal pups on a guided boat trip from locations such as St Ives, Penzance, and Falmouth. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek is also at its busiest during this time, offering a fascinating glimpse into seal rescue and rehabilitation.
6. Enjoy Fantastic Light Shows
Winter evenings in Cornwall are perfect for light displays. From festive Christmas lights to the dramatic illuminations at the Eden Project, there’s something to dazzle every visitor. For a more natural spectacle, Bodmin Moor’s Dark Sky Landscape status makes it an ideal spot for stargazing.
7. Take a Dog Walk
Cornwall is renowned for dog-friendly beaches and countryside paths. Many beaches lift their dog restrictions after 1 October, giving your pet the freedom to explore off-season. Watch your dog play in the waves, enjoy a game of fetch, and take a relaxing walk together. Afterward, many dog-friendly pubs in Cornwall offer cosy log fires to warm up by.
8. Get a Seat at Foodie Hotspots
Cornwall is famous for its food, from cosy tearooms to Michelin-starred restaurants. During the quieter autumn and winter months, it is easier to secure a table without booking months in advance. Popular eateries may still require some planning, but overall, out-of-season dining offers more flexibility.
If you’re planning a Cornwall winter break, take a look at our charming Cornish holiday properties. From romantic cottages with flickering fires to spacious luxury homes for the whole family, there is something to suit every taste this winter. Don’t miss the famous Cornish Christmas lights at Mousehole, a picturesque coastal village near Penzance.
