We know it’s only November but after the year we have all had I think a bit of Christmas cheer and planning is just what we all need. Of course we are all waiting to see if the current restrictions are eased over the Christmas period but there is no reason why we can’t get planning now so we don’t miss out on some of the fantastic events that there are in Cornwall throughout December. We have put together some of our favourite things going on. I would suggest booking where possible as numbers may be reduced from normal capacity.
Christmas at The Eden Project
The Eden Project turns into a magnificent winter wonderland over the Christmas period. The biomes are lit up different festive colours, there are trees and lights and festive displays and this year music and cheer in each of the biomes. One of the best bits about Eden over the winter months is the ice skating rink. The rink is just beautiful with lights and music to make it an amazing experience for everyone. They do provide skating aids as well for the little ones which are well needed. You will need to book ahead to attend Eden due to social distancing, make sure you book your ice skating slot while you are there too.
Of course no winter wonderland would be the same without the chance for the little ones to meet Father Christmas. You will need to book into this too so please make sure you get in there early for this one. The Eden Project really do go all out to create a fantastic atmosphere and we highly recommend checking it out this year.
Dairlyland Christmas on the Farm
Dairyland is a fantastic place for the little ones, they will love the Christmas activities here too. The farm will be lit up with gorgeous Christmas lights and you will be able to see animals and elves and decorate ginger bread men. All of this with festive music and cheer.
The new socially distanced way to see Santa is up and running and you can take the little ones in to see him safely. All the children will also be given a gift from Santa to take home. There is plenty to do here particularly for smaller children. We recommend this for younger children but there is something to do here for all ages. Dairyland is on the outskirts of Newquay and we have a full Newquay Town guide that you can view if you are thinking of booking a break in this area.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
The beautiful gardens at Heligan are a great place for the kids to explore and burn off some energy, they always have seasonal activities for the kids and Christmas is no different. Take the children to meet Father Christmas on selected dates throughout December. You will need to pay in addition to the entrance fee to the gardens but it is pretty reasonable considering it includes a gift for each child. You can also tie this in with a day out in the gardens so you can keep everyone entertained for the whole day.
Also on selected dates Heligan are having a night garden enchanting lantern experience which will not disappoint. Again you will need to pay in addition for this and please make sure that you book in advance to secure your place. You can also enjoy one of the festive lunches throughout the day at the Heligan on certain dates throughout December. We love Heligan and if you are looking for that extra but of magic this Christmas then this is for you. Heligan is in on the South Coast of Cornwall near the beautiful and popular Mevagissey, check out our Mevagissey Town guide for more info on things to do in and around this area.
Christmas at Lappa Valley
Lappa Valley is a definite favourite in Cornwall and its even more wonderful at Christmas time. You will take a train along the track down to the valley where you will be able to do balloon modelling, go on the rides and listen to festive traditional music.
Of course there will be the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto and every child will get a gift too. There will also be seasonal food and drink available too. This really is a treat for the whole family as well as the dogs as this is a dog friendly attraction. A perfect place for the train lovers.
Healeys Cider Farm Christmas
Healeys Cider Farm near Truro is a fantastic place for a trip out this Christmas. The farm is decorated beautifully with lights giving it a wonderful festive feel. On selected weekends in December they transform the farm into a fairytale world of mulled cyder and seaonal food, Christmas songs, and crafts. This ticks a lot of boxes for the whole family to enjoy.
You can expect to see many stalls showcasing Christmas produce and you can sample some fantastic mulled cider whilst on your visit. The price is super cheap too as you just purchase a £5 annual pass and you can visit as much as you like. If you already have a pass then its free. No Santa but a fantastic place for the whole family. Please book in advance to make sure you get tickets. There are lots of things to do in Truro, obviously some will depend on guidelines but worth a look at our Truro Town Guide for inspiration.
Christmas at Heartlands
On the 5th and 6th of December Father Christmas will be visiting Heartlands and you will be able to visit. Take a walk through the winter gardens and visit Father Christmas on his sleigh. Elves will be on hand to ensure Father Christmas is kept safe and social distancing will be in place of course. The event will be outside so please make sure that you all wrap up warm.
There will be Christmas markets for all to explore featuring local festive products. There will be festive food, mulled wine and live performances for everyone to enjoy. The market is free but there is an additional charge to see Santa and this includes a small gift. The price is just £2.50 so a fantastic way to see Father Christmas on a budget whilst doing some last minute Christmas shopping.
Apart from these organised events and days out there are of course some amazing beaches and walking paths that you can explore. Our Beach Guide will give you a few ideas. Winter in Cornwall is a fab place for scenery and dramatic coastline. There are also some amazing family-friendly places to eat too, please make sure you book ahead to get a table though. Check out our full guide of Things to do in Cornwall to see more ideas.
