Top 10 Things To Do in Cornwall This Winter

Winter

Cornwall is always seen as the perfect summer holiday destination in the UK, with sandy beaches and a subtropical climate it’s easy to see why we have so many visitors in the warmer months. But winter in the land of pasties and jam-first scones can be just as beautiful and memorable if you know all of the best Cornish winter activities around.


At St Michaels our goal is to provide you with the best stay possible, so here are our top 10 winter activities that you can do in Cornwall this winter.

1. The National Maritime Museum
1. The National Maritime Museum

A short walk from our doorstep you’ll find yourself at the National Maritime Museum right on the Falmouth Harbor. Great for families, the museum is full of interesting collections, facts and exhibits to keep you entertained for a few hours. Head down below to see out across the harbour floor, check out their latest exhibit (it’s Pirates right now and who doesn’t love learning about our swashbuckling favourites?) or check out the interactive displays.

2. Coastal Walks
2. Coastal Walks

Wrap up warm and enjoy one of the many coastal paths around Falmouth. Head from Gyllyngvase Beach out towards the Helford River or around Pendennis Point for an invigorating seaside walk taking in the incredible wintery views. 

There are plenty of local cafes around to grab a hot drink and a slice of cake, or warm up with a tipple you can take with you on your trek.

3. Cold Water Swimming
3. Cold Water Swimming

Dive into the Cornish lifestyle with cold water swimming! The practice has become more and more popular in recent years as people notice the benefits of cold water therapy. Head down to Blu Flag Gyllyngvase Beach and brave the plunge, or check out our cold water plunge pool at the St Michaels Spa for a quick trial.

4. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary
4. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Not far from your stay in Falmouth, you can find the Cornish Seal Sanctuary. Open all year round providing care to seals and other animals, the Seal Sanctuary is the perfect place to safely visit the seals and learn all about their rehabilitation and lives.

Visit the Seal Sanctuary once and enjoy a free pass for the next year, giving you plenty of opportunities to check in on the rehabilitating seal pups and your older favourites.

5. The Eden Project
5. The Eden Project

Hide away from the winter chill in one of the warm climates of the Eden Project biomes. Explore the global gardens nestled away near St Austell and experience that natural world in a whole new light. Travel from the rainforest to the Mediterranean in one trip, or pop your skates on for an ice skating experience in Cornwall.

6. Distillery Tours
6. Distillery Tours

One for the adults of the trip, discover new and exciting notes on a trip to a local distillery or vineyard. From delicious Cornish Cider to locally distilled gins and Knightor Wines, there are plenty of distilleries to choose from. A unique experience that teaches you all about the process of making cider, gin, vodka or wine, you’ll not only learn all about your favourite tipple but you may manage to try a few too.

7. A Comforting Spa Day
7. A Comforting Spa Day

The opposite of cold water swimming, a spa day with a warm hydrothermal experience could be just the thing. Pass the time lounging amongst the bubbles, enjoy a view of Falmouth Bay from a spacious hot tub, get your sweat on in a barrel sauna, or enjoy the world’s only Cornish sea salt steam room. At the St Michaels Spa you can sit back, relax and watch the world blow by.

8. Visit Mousehole
8. Visit Mousehole

A picturesque fishing village full of character, if you’re looking for a classic Cornish experience then look no further. Mousehole is steeped in history and culture, which it brings out in force every December with its traditional Christmas lights sparkling across the harbour, it’s the perfect place to visit during the festive season!

9. The Lost Gardens of Heligan
9. The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Over in South East Cornwall you can find the Lost Gardens of Heligan, rediscovered in the 1990s after years under the brambles the garden is full of hidden treasures and magic to discover. Planning a trip around Christmas? Make sure to check out the Heligan Night Garden for a magical evening.

10. Storm Chasing
10. Storm Chasing

A unique pastime that provides unparalleled views across Cornwall, there are so many popular spots for watching the crashing waves across the county. Head to Porthleven to watch the storm rage around the famous clock tower, take in the views from the Bedruthan Steps or pop across to Penzance to see waves arcing over the road.

Plan Your Perfect Winter Break With St Michaels Resort

Find peace and serenity with a visit to Cornwall this winter. Enjoy a relaxed break by the sea or choose the perfect experiences to give your stay that something more.


Stay at St Michaels Resort this winter for a cosy coastal break to remember. Check out our offers & breaks today for exclusive deals, or take a look at our blog for more activities and things to do in Cornwall.