What to do in Cornwall this Twixmas

The Twixmas period refers to the days between Christmas and New Year when there is generally not much going on and there is a sense of limbo waiting for the next party to begin.

Traditionally this is a time for relaxing, eating and spending time snuggled up on the sofa with loved ones. However after spending several days cooped up indoors, many of us will want to get out and do something. If you’re lucky enough to be spending the post-Christmas period in Cornwall there are plenty of things to do to keep everyone entertained.

Take a Walk in the Woods

A walk in the woods is a wise choice especially if it’s blustery or damp on the beach. It is an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Cornish countryside and burn off a few excess calories. We have some lovely woods to explore in Cornwall including Tehidy Woods near Portreath and Camborne. There are miles of trails to roam, fallen trees to climb and wildlife to spot, plus a wonderful lakeside café.

Go Rock Hopping

Of course if the weather is OK, you’ll no doubt want to get out for a stroll on the beach. Kids will love rock hopping and exploring the rock pools which are exposed at low tide on most north coast beaches. Here in Perranporth the rocks underneath the cliff at Droskyn at the south end of the beach are worth exploring, otherwise head to Trevaunance Cove in St Agnes or Chapel Porth. Just keep an eye on the tide so you don’t get inadvertently soaked.

Stop for a Scenic Hot Chocolate

If you have been stuck inside for days it’s sometimes enough for a simple change of scene. So why not pop out for a scenic hot chocolate or stop by a café for a post-walk reward? You’re spoilt for choice for places to stop and sip a soothing hot drink. Some of our favourites include Alcatraz on Perranporth Beach, the Blue Bar at Porthtowan and Lusty Glaze Beach. This is a beautiful spot in Newquay where you can choose from a hot chocolate menu and then work it off by climbing the steep stairs back up to the car park.

Brave the Icy Sea

You’ll need to be particularly brave or downright crazy to get in the sea at this time of year. It is icy cold. But a quick dip can certainly blow out the cobwebs and is supposed to have restorative effects. If you do decide to get in, take care if the surf is strong. Otherwise head to the tidal bathing pools at Perranporth, Porthtowan or Towan Beach in Newquay for a bracing dip.

See Some Christmas Lights

If you haven’t had enough of the glitzy festive spirit you could go out to see some of Cornwall’s famous Christmas lights displays. The most famous of all is in the small seaside village of Mousehole near Penzance where the harbour and fishing cottages are emblazoned each evening with festive lights. Truro also puts on a good show at Christmas and is worth a walk around in the evening to see the street lights. Or do something completely different and head to the Eden Project for its nightly illuminations and interactive light sculptures.

Go Storm Watching

Witness the power of nature as huge waves crash against the cliffs at scenic spots up and down the coast. If there’s a swell running or a stormy sea, it can be a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the coast. Good places for storm watching include Droskyn cliffs in Perranporth, Wheal Coates near St Agnes and Godrevy Head near Hayle.

Climb a Sand Dune

This can be enormous fun if you have kids. Otherwise see it as an excuse to get some exercise. There are some very high sand dunes at Penhale towards the northern end of Perranporth Beach. Clamber up to the top for great views and then run and jump down for exhilarating fun.

Take the Bikes Out for a Spin

For even more exercise you could get the family out for a bike ride. There are numerous trails to explore on two wheels in Cornwall, including the Camel Trail near Padstow, the Bissoe Trail and Cardinham Woods. Each of these trails has bike hire centres on route if you didn’t bring your own.

Go Seal Spotting

Seals are a common sight along the coast of Cornwall. There are regular visitors at Newquay Harbour and Trevaunance Cove in St Agnes. But for the best chance of spotting seals, head along to the grey seal colony at Mutton Cove at Godrevy. There are often seals you can watch from the top of the cliff whilst they bathe on the beach and play in the sea.

Cross a Rope Bridge

For some adventurous fun take a day out to explore the Lost Gardens of Heligan where there is a 100ft replica of a Burmese rope bridge across a ravine in the jungle garden. Kids, in particular, will love the challenge of crossing the rope bridge and can also tire themselves exploring the exotic plants and features in this fantastic garden attraction.

Play in Cornwall’s Cultural Playground

Billed as Britain’s first cultural playground, Heartlands in Pool near Redruth is a great family attraction where you can have fun while you learn about Cornwall’s mining heritage. This part of Cornwall was at the heart of the tin mining industry which is brought to life in interactive displays and commemorated in the diaspora garden. This free attraction also features Cornwall’s largest adventure playground.

Still haven’t booked your Christmas or New Year’s break yet? Check for availability on our property search page or get in touch for last-minute offers.