The best things about Cornwall in winter

1. Crisp morning walks 

One of the best feelings is waking up to the sun peeking through my curtains and opening them up to see a bright blue sky. I love to wrap up in a warm, colourful scarf, put on a playlist and step out into the crisp winter air. The coastal stretch from Castle Beach in Falmouth to Swanpool is a beautiful 6km walk. Sometimes, I like to bring along a watercolour set and stop to paint the views. It’s such a soul nourishing activity that allows me to be creative, separate from my studies. 

2. Cold dips in the sea

It may be icy cold, but a swim in the sea can do wonders for your mind. Post-swim, make sure you bring warm layers, fluffy socks and a big thermos of warm tea. The cold water is so rejuvenating and can completely reset your brain, which is especially rewarding as deadline season draws in. To divulge in some extra self-care, a session in the Kiln sauna on Gylly Beach is a perfect way to treat yourself. 

3. Christmas in Falmouth

Falmouth has incredible Christmas lights trailing through the high street. Many of the shops turn their window displays into wonderful festive scenes and have great gift collections for all your Christmas shopping needs. Throughout December, there are many markets to check out, with handmade craft stalls and mulled wine. 

4. Card games in the pub

There’s something so lovely about gathering around a pub garden table with a group of friends together, bundled up in jackets and playing cards into the late evening. It’s also fun to join in a pub quiz - The Boathouse, Chain Locker and Jacobs Ladder are just a few pubs in Falmouth which host one weekly. Afterwards, walking home under a blanket of stars on a clear winters’ night feels like a piece of casual magic. 

5. Cosy coffee shops

On rainy days I love heading to one of Falmouth’s many cosy coffee shops. Beerwolf is a perfect spot to bring your book and curl up on an armchair by the fire. Sabzi does the most delicious, freshly baked cookies, and views of the harbour make it ideal for a midweek debrief. And Gylly Beach Café serves hot chocolates piled high with a mountain of whipped cream, which you can drink while watching the waves crash on the shore. 

Overall, Cornwall in the winter is underrated. The cosy cafes, Falmouth’s festivities and wholesome pub nights make the colder months feel comforting and atmospheric. There are so many pockets of joy which make Falmouth such a special place to live, not just in summer, but all year around. 

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