Take a winter break in Cornwall

The summer in North Cornwall is glorious but there’s so much else going on throughout the year that you’d be really missing out if you only came to see us between June and August.

In winter it’s rare for the temperature to drop below freezing – although the weather can sometimes be quite invigorating! Just what you need to blow away the cobwebs on a long walk along a deserted beach. But when the wind suddenly drops, and the sun peeps through the clouds, you can actually feel the warmth on your back.

After a coastal walk the attraction of heading to a cosy pub, café or one of the area’s brilliant waterside restaurants is bigger than ever. You’ll find it much easier to get a table at one of our top restaurants but we still say you can’t beat tucking into a tasty pasty or fish and chips in the shelter of a harbour wall. And on a clear sunny day even a picnic just down the road on Crooklets, Summerleaze or Widemouth beach is possible.

If surfing’s your thing then over winter the waves are at their best. Bring your gear to keep you toasty and surf instructors will be waiting if you want to improve your skills.

If you fancy doing something ‘Christmassy’ then we’ve plenty of ideas. There are lots of Christmas Fares including Padstow, Clovelly and Bude. At Padstow the harbour comes alive with sparkling lights, celebrity chefs, culinary delights and festive fun. Christmas is also a magical time at Clovelly. A local brass band leads the procession down to the harbour, with festive Christmas carols sung by a local choir. A hog roast, grog and mince pies follow and Father Christmas makes a surprise visit. Best of all it’s all in aid of the RNLI.

For something completely different why not take part in Bude Surf Club’s annual Christmas Day Swim! There’s qualified lifeguard cover, mulled wine, hot chocolate and sausage rolls all free of charge. Just no wetsuits allowed…

At the Eden Project’s winter festival explore the humid tropical biome (spruced up with Christmas sparkle) before taking to the ice for a session on the ice-rink.

On the Bodmin and Wenford Railway Father Christmas swaps his sleigh for a steam train and throughout December can be found hurtling through the Cornish countryside. The festive journey ends with mince pies and a seasonal drink for you, whilst your children collect a present from Santa.

Sound good? Why not book your winter break now.