Survival Guide: Beat Winter Boredom
8 Things to do in Cornwall this winter.
This is it. The rain has set in, it’s less than 6 weeks until Christmas, and the heating has gone on (or more likely an extra jumper if you’re trying to stave off the tear-inducing winter heating bills for as long as possible without losing any toes to frostbite). I would bet good money that easy access to some of the country’s most stunning beaches played at least a small part in most of Falmouth students’ decisions to study in Cornwall, and for good reason; in the summer we’re lucky enough to have more than 400 beaches within just a couple of hours of campus, not to mention Falmouth’s own great beaches right on our doorsteps. So what do we do when the winter weather sets in and the beaches begin to lose some of that allure? It may be tempting to lull yourself into a hibernation-like slumber for the next few months, but wait! Before you retreat under the duvet with that family-sized bag of Wotsits and the Game of Thrones box set, take a quick look at a few ideas we have for things to do in Cornwall to beat the winter blues…
1. Ice Skating at The Eden Project
For four months in the winter season Eden opens up its ice rink, so get your skates on and head up to St Austell. In addition, Eden will be holding winter events through December, including the transformation of the tropical biome into an enchanted rainforest (Twinkly lights, snow and palm trees? Yes please.) and a visit from Father Christmas and his reindeer (natch).
When? 17th October – 28th February
Where? The Eden Project, St Austell
How Much? £6 for a 40 minute skating session + Eden ticket price.
2. Falmouth Light Festival
See the lights switch on and lantern parade sweep through town from the moor to the events square. Singing from local choirs and floating lanterns will bring up all those festive feels.
When? 3rd December
Where? The Moor, Falmouth
How Much? FREE
3. The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Even in the rain Heligan breathes charm. Get togged up in your wellies and waterproofs and visit the fairy-tale gardens – guaranteed to provoke rapture and romanticism in even the most cynical of souls.
When? Open daily
Where? Nr Mevagissey
How Much? £8 student entrance.
4. Carnglaze Caverns
If you’d prefer not to get your head wet, take a tour of the underground chambers at Carnglaze where you’ll be well hidden from the rain. The eerie underground lake is a pretty spectacular sight, plus you get to wear a hard hat which is always good for a larf.
When? Open daily
Where? St Neot, Liskeard
How Much? £6
5. Cosy Up in a Pub
Another thing Cornwall has going for it is the abundance of snug taverns. We love The Pandora Inn in Mylor and The Godolphin Arms in Marazion – both have stunning views and great chips.
6. Mousehole Christmas Lights
Make your way to Mousehole (that’s pronounced mauzoll if you want to fit in with the locals) to see the Christmas lights to beat all Christmas lights. The village comes to life as an amazing display of lights and lanterns illuminate the harbour for the season. Head in for a wander as it gets dark and then treat yourself to mulled wine and stargazy pie at one of the inviting pubs along the harbour.
When? 12th December – 2nd January
Where? Mousehole, nr Penzance
How Much? FREE
7. Christmas Illuminations at Trelissick
Walk through Trelissick gardens after dusk to see the house and gardens dramatically lit with coloured floodlights.
When? 4th-6th December
Where? Trelissick Gardens, Feock
How Much? £8.60 garden entrance fee.
8. Take a walk on the beach
Okay yes, it will be cold and windy, but during the next few months the beaches are guaranteed to be blissfully quiet. Wrap up warm and find a little bit of nature to explore. If you’re really brave, don a wetsuit and take a dip – it’s essentially an extreme sport when it gets to January!