Organising a winter holiday in Cornwall should by no means be overlooked in your plans this year. The colder months can be the best time to visit as places get quieter, accommodation gets cosier and magnificent coastlines are enhanced by the crisp weather. To help inspire you, here are our six top reasons to take a winter break in Cornwall this year.
Beat the crowds
Visiting in the colder months means you won’t need to share any of Cornwall’s beautiful beaches, fight for space in your favourite restaurant or squeeze through traffic down the motorway. It will be your own personal paradise. The beach at Gwithian (pictured above) is so long that it’ll feel like you have it all to yourself. Try staying at the Bolthole at Sunset Surf, just a stone’s throw from the beach’s sandy dunes.
Storm watching
Cornwall is a mecca for adrenaline-filled storm watching due to it jutting out into the Atlantic. The best place for watching this tempestuous oceanic weather is from The Ship Inn in Porthleven, where mountainous waves will literally crash onto the side of the harbour. Be sure to stay a good distance though as it can get dangerous out there. In 2018, a record-breaking wave measuring almost 30ft was recorded just off the coast from the town!
Cosy pubs
There isn’t a better feeling than spectating the wild wintery weather from a cosy Cornish pub with G&T in hand and some humble pub grub. They also make a great respite after a long walk on the South West Coast Path and there are thankfully LOTS of options. Here are a couple of choices to whet your appetite:
- Cadgwith Cove Inn (pictured above): set in the picturesque fishing village of Cadgwith in the Lizard Peninsula. Local ales, freshly landed fish and sea shanties on Fridays.
- Port Gaverne Hotel: a characterful establishment set in the peaceful village of Port Gaverne on the dramatic north coast.
Walks to blow the cobwebs away
Walking is the best way to explore Cornwall’s coast and countryside, and winter is the best time for it! Just imagine yourself trekking along a section of the coast path with the wind blowing and the waves crashing on the cliffs below, it really makes you feel alive. For starters, here’s a favourite winter walk of ours. And if it rains? Well, as they say, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad preparation!”
Swimming
Now, this isn’t for everyone, but swimming in cold water has reportedly remarkable mental and physical health benefits. Whether it’s going to be a short in-and-out plop or a dedicated paddle, you will feel better for it. Remember to stay safe out there, always bring a friend and don’t jump straight in — take it slowly with a gently shelving beach. Check out The Outdoor Swimming Society website for safety advice and more.
The perfect base for these intrepid activities would be Artisan Cottage. The fisherman’s cottage is just minutes away from Porthmeor beach, meaning you can make a hasty retreat back into a hot shower.
And if you’re still not sure, then you can always put on a wetsuit!
Dog-friendly beaches
With beach dog bans coming back into force from spring, winter is the best time to make the most of Cornwall’s beaches while you can. Our top beach for bringing the four-legged-friend is the famed Porthcurno near Land’s End with dramatic cliffs and white sands, only a 25 min drive from Newlyn.
See our round up of dog-friendly beaches year round in Cornwall
