Spend a Magical Christmas in Cornwall

Indulge in some essential Christmas shopping, visit harbourside villages adorned with festive illuminations and walk off some mince pies with a relaxing stroll along Carbis Bay beach; all before returning to our cosy hotel and resting by the roaring open fire with a glass of mulled wine.

One of the best times to visit St Ives is at Christmas - take a stroll along the Wharf for a view of the fishermen's lights and explore the quaint, cobbled streets of Fore Street, St Andrew's Street, the High Street, and Tregenna Place for their spectacular window displays. One of the highlights of the Christmas season is a visit from the RNLI Santa St Ives. Each year, volunteers from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) dress up as Santa Claus and take to the waters on a lifeboat.

Families and children line the harbour, eagerly awaiting Santa's arrival by sea, a charming reminder of the vital work done by the RNLI to keep coastal communities safe.

The Mousehole Christmas Lights are a renowned and enchanting holiday spectacle that transforms the tiny fishing village of Mousehole into a dazzling winter wonderland.

Thousands of twinkling lights adorn the quaint harbour, waterfront cottages, and narrow streets of Mousehole, creating a mesmerising display that illuminates the dark winter nights. These lights take various forms, from traditional Christmas motifs like angels and reindeer to whimsical sea-themed designs, paying homage to the village's maritime heritage. 

One of the highlights is the famous "Tom Bawcock's Eve," a unique celebration held on December 23rd, where villagers gather to commemorate the legendary fisherman who, according to local folklore, saved the village from starvation during a storm. This evening includes a lantern procession, the singing of traditional songs, and the consumption of "Stargazy Pie," a dish featuring fish heads protruding from the pastry, symbolizing the heroic catch.

Cornwall's Christmas markets are a festive delight, infusing the air with a sense of holiday magic. These markets, scattered across the region, offer a captivating blend of local crafts, delectable treats, and seasonal cheer.

Whether it's the bustling stalls of Truro's Winter Gift Fayre or the traditional ambience of Carbis Bay Estate's Coastal Christmas Market, each market offers the opportunity to indulge in some festive retail therapy by the sea.

Christmas swims in St. Ives have become a cherished and invigorating holiday tradition. Every year, brave souls and festive enthusiasts gather at the town's picturesque beaches, including Porthminster and Carbis Bay, to take a refreshing plunge into the brisk waters of the Atlantic Ocean on Christmas morning.

This heartwarming and exhilarating event is more than just a dip in the sea; it's a communal experience that brings the local community and visitors together. Many participants don Santa hats, holiday costumes, or even wetsuits as they charge into the chilly waves, laughing and cheering. The atmosphere is filled with camaraderie and festive cheer as onlookers cheer on the swimmers from the shoreline.

Enjoy a warm Cornish welcome, cosy rooms, stylish lounge and bar, open fires and, highly acclaimed gourmet delights of the Hungry Gannet restaurant.

Our festive breaks start from 24th - 27th December giving you enough time to enjoy the celebrations, explore the Cornish coast and unwind and relax by the ocean.

The Gannet is perfectly placed to explore all that St Ives and Carbis Bay has to offer. The nearby Carbis Bay Estate has a beautiful Blue Flag beach to stroll along and the South West Coast path will take you into the heart of St Ives to explore all the local galleries, shops and museums. The C Bay Spa at the Carbis Bay Estate is open with outdoor year-round swimming pool, hydro pool, sauna cabin, and fitness room. A range of relaxing treatments can be booked during your stay.

Make this a Cornish Christmas by the sea. A warm, cosy festive welcome awaits from all our team.