The end of the year is the perfect time to kick back and relax on a low-key staycation, nd there’s nowhere better for a tranquil break than Cornwall. With peaceful winter walks along the coast and lots of local delicacies to enjoy, a stay at our Truro holiday cottages is ideal for ringing in the New Year.
Whether you want to party the night away or just catch up with loved ones, here is our guide to having a great New Year in Cornwall.
Why Stay in Cornwall for New Year’s Eve?
There’s a lot to love about Cornwall at any time of year, but it can be a particularly desirable spot in the post-Christmas season.
1. Fewer People
If you’re after a quieter New Year’s Eve celebration this year, Cornwall is the place for you.
The peak holiday season for Cornwall tends to be June to August when the weather is hotter and schools are out. While Cornwall is super exciting during this time with lots of events, it can also get quite crowded in the most popular places. Winter in Cornwall offers another side to our region, with much more space to roam and explore to your heart’s content. If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of regular life, an out-of-season Cornish holiday is perfect.
2. Fantastic Restaurants
No matter where you choose to stay in Cornwall, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to food. From award-winning pub-grub to seafood restaurants serving only locally caught fish, there is something to tempt the whole family.
During the off-season, you shouldn’t find any issues with booking a table at some of Cornwall’s top restaurants!
3. Christmas Day Dip
Wherever you go on holiday, it’s always good to immerse yourself in the local culture. For Cornwall during the festive period, that means joining in with a Christmas Day dip.
This is a tradition across the South West where brave locals take a dip into the freezing Atlantic waters on Christmas morning, followed by toasty fires and a nice Christmas dinner. It’s also something many people do to celebrate the New Year, so why not make it a new yearly tradition in your family?
There are plenty of beaches across Cornwall to visit, and with it being out of season, you’ll have much more space for a walk or swim.
4. Surfing in Cornwall
While surfing might seem like a summer sport, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, lots of surfers dedicate their winter months to tackling the great westerly swells that bring some of Cornwall’s top surf spots to life.
If you’re new to surfing, winter may not be the best time to hit the water. Lifeguards are few and far between during these months, and this is when waves can be at their most perilous, so it’s best left to the experts. However, for those who have been waiting all year for some great waves without having to wade through large groups of newbie surfers, then a surfing staycation in Cornwall this winter could be just the trip you’ve been waiting for!
5. Fireworks Displays
While London has the eyes of the nation on New Year’s Eve for its stunning fireworks display, it’s not the only option. If you want to see some sparks flying in real life, then Cornwall could be the place for you.
From St Ives to Newquay and all the way to Looe, there is certainly no shortage of fireworks displays taking place in Cornwall every year.
6. Local Events
Everyone has their own way of celebrating the start of a new year. This means that no matter where you choose to go, there’s bound to be something exciting happening locally that you can get involved in!
Where to Go in Cornwall for New Year’s Eve
The towns and villages of Cornwall come alive during various New Year’s celebrations, with fireworks displays and festivities to help you party the night away. Then, come the next morning, what better way to greet the new year than with a woodland stroll or a refreshing walk on one of the nearby beaches?
If you’re looking for some big New Year’s events to enjoy in Cornwall during your stay, here are some of the most popular you can check out.
Go Party Hopping in Falmouth
The gorgeous seaside town of Falmouth is set glittering on New Year’s Eve, with an unbeatable ambience and fireworks display. Everyone gets dressed up for New Year’s in Falmouth, including the buildings and boats.
You’ll find restaurants and hotels on every corner hosting an unforgettable night, where food is locally sourced and the drinks keep flowing.
Don Your Fancy Dress in St Ives or Newquay
If you are looking for a party, then you’ll want to check out St Ives. Considered one of the biggest NYE celebrations in the UK, many of the streets are closed as the town becomes packed with revellers.
There’s a long-standing tradition of fancy dress at the St Ives New Year celebration –a great excuse to get into costume and have some fun, or simply admire everyone’s finest creations! There’s a similar love for fancy dress in Newquay in North Cornwall, so you’re never too far from something extraordinary.
Get Bougie at Truro’s Cathedral Masquerade
If you want to wear your finest and ring in the New Year in style, Truro might be the place for you.
Head to the cathedral for the city’s famous masquerade ball, or settle in for one of the two fireworks displays happening in the evening. Truro is a stunning backdrop for a night of eating, drinking and looking forward to another year.
Take Stunning Photos at Mousehole or Looe
Cornwall has lots of scenic villages, and some of the most popular pull out all the stops during the festive season. Mousehole and Looe are two of the most famous – expect harbourside streets adorned with all manner of glittering lights, adding more charm to these beautiful places.
New Year’s celebrations in these smaller locations are often great for families. There’s still plenty of local cheer to enjoy, but there will be more space to move around and a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Staying at The Valley for New Year’s
Located just 10 minutes from Truro, The Valley is in a great central location, making it the ideal base for your Christmas and New Year’s adventures. No matter where you want to go or what you want to do, it won’t be far from our luxury Cornish cottages!
We want to ensure everyone can enjoy the festive season in ultimate comfort with a New Year’s break in Cornwall. Here you’ll find accommodation suitable for all the family, including dog-friendly cottages and options with a private hot tub.
Book your next holiday today to discover how magical Cornwall can be in winter.
