There are those that say that if you really want to know Cornwall you need to visit in the winter. After the summer crowds have left and the balmy days have turned dark, wet and windy Cornwall becomes a much more elemental place.
It becomes the place where myth and legends seem less fantastical, a place that witches, ghosts, piskies and giants could actually inhabit. Cornwall in the winter may not for the faint hearted but if you take the chance the rewards can be unexpectedly wonderful!
Here’s our guide to getting the most out of a trip to Cornwall in the winter:
Get out walking
It’s said that there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing! So wrap yourself up against the elements, don those wellies and waterproofs and get out exploring. Your rewards will be empty beaches to enjoy and footpaths free for you to roam.
Wave Watching
If the weather is really rough then rather than retreat find somewhere safe to enjoy the show. The Ship Inn at Porthleven can be a cosy bolthole in a storm, as is the Godolphin Arms in Marazion with its views across Mounts Bay. Settle in with a hearty meal and a hot drink while the storm blows through. Chances are that the rough weather will be followed by some of those priceless clear, crisp sunny days.
Live Music
With colder, dark evenings the entertainment moves inside and you will find lots of pubs put on live music at this time of year, as well as some spontaneous outbreaks of shanty singing too! The Cadgwith Inn is famous for its singing every Friday evening and in Falmouth, the home of the sea shanty festival,
Discover Quieter Attractions
As well as the beaches being emptier you will find that attractions, museums and galleries are too and fortunately not all of them close over winter. So why not visit the world-renowned Tate Gallery in St Ives for some colourful modern art or Penlee House Gallery which is bursting with art inspired by the Cornish landscape, or perhaps pop into the 100 year old Leech Pottery for a tour! The Lost Gardens of Heligan are open all year round and so much more enjoyable without the crowds. And the National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow is also open all year and is a unique attraction with fun for all ages.
Jump Aboard
Whatever the weather everyone loves a train ride and there are some particularly scenic tracks to discover in Cornwall. The Liskeard – Looe line makes a great day out, enjoy 2 miles of estuary views and spend the day in the seaside town with its maze of narrow streets, seafood restaurants and working harbour. The Tamar Valley line weaves through rolling countryside; the stunning Calstock viaduct is a highlight and you can also walk from there to the National Trust property of Cotehele following the tranquil river. While the St Erth – St Ives line is widely considered one of the most beautiful stretches of track in the UK with spectacular views across the bay and its white sandy beach