The Best Restaurants for Christmas Dinner in Cornwall

December 13th, 2021

With twinkling lights, nostalgic carols and festive celebrations abound, there’s a lot to love about the Christmas period. This is a time characterised by family and togetherness – and nothing brings us together quite like a good meal!

For many, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without turkey and all the trimmings. If you’re staying in Cornwall this year and are seeking a spot serving traditional Christmas meals, look no further.

From traditional turkey to delicious vegan options, you’ll find a seasonal sensation suitable for everyone at these great pubs and restaurants.

The Alverton, Truro

Indulge in the classic flavours of the season at this hotel restaurant, choosing options from their three-course menu or building your perfect Christmas feast.

An ideal location to kick back, relax and leave the cooking to the experts, you’ll be sure to leave full of festive cheer after enjoying spectacular Cornish cuisine.

County Arms, Truro

A classic country pub with a modern twist, the County Arms on the outskirts of Truro is the perfect place for families to spend the evening.

With peaceful countryside views and a tasty menu including a choice of three meats or a vegan roast option, this pub’s warm atmosphere is a wonderful place to enjoy the Christmas period.

Norway Inn, Truro

If you’re after a diverse and extensive menu, this is the one for you! A hearty mix of meat, fish and vegetarian options along with a range of desserts means there’s something for everyone here.

The historic pub sits in the village of Perranarworthal, between Truro and Falmouth. It’s full of cosy countryside charm, ideal for any yuletide gathering.

The Working Boat, Falmouth

Set alongside picturesque views of Falmouth Harbour, this pub makes a great spot for your festive lunch.

Enjoy a three-course meal with a menu full of Christmas classics, including turkey, all the trimmings and more.

Chain Locker, Falmouth

Another wonderful eatery in Falmouth, here you’ll find plenty of vegan and vegetarian options to ensure the whole family is catered for.

Relax by a cosy fire in this harbourside pub that dates back to the 16th century; revel in the history, fantastic food and perfect festive atmosphere.

The Cornish Food Box Company

If you’d rather spend Christmas Day in one of our self-catering Truro holiday cottages, why not settle in with a local food and produce delivery service?

The Cornish Food Box Company is a family-run business providing packages that include everything you need to cook a glorious festive feast for the whole family.

This is an ideal option for those who want convenience but also want to relax in the comfort of their luxury holiday home with a home-cooked meal on the big day!

When you celebrate Christmas in Cornwall, you’re sure to create some magical memories! If you’re on the lookout for more festive fun on your Cornish break, check out our blog on all the best Christmas markets to visit this year.

Primestock Show 2019

November 25th, 2019

The Primestock Show in Truro returns again for another year, making it the 116th! Visitors can celebrate Cornwall’s agricultural community and enjoy a day of competitions, auctions and activities. In this blog, we share everything you need to know about The Primestock Show and explain why you should visit this year.

What is The Primestock Show in Truro?

The Primestock Show in Truro is an event that celebrates the countryside and farming in the heart of the city. Visitors can observe closely some of the very best Cornish prime cattle and sheep and watch as they are judged and auctioned. Alongside this are some brilliant shows of cookery, floral art, photography, farm produce, and a whole lot more of other exhibits. Below is a video from 2018’s Primestock Show displaying the highlights of the event.

When is The Primestock Show in Truro?

On the 4th of December 2019

Where in Truro is The Primestock Show?

The event is held at the Lemon Quay in Truro. Parking is available in the area, with a few multi-storey car parks on offer. For the main Lemon Quay car park, prices are as follows:

1 Hour: £1.40

2 Hours: £2.50

3 Hours: £3.90

4 Hours: £5.00

6 Hours: £10.50

There is also a bus stop at Lemon Quay which has frequent services running in every direction. So, if you don’t have a car or would rather park outside the city and then travel in, this is a great option.

The schedule of The Primestock Show:

6.30am to 8.30am: Welcome of primestock (cattle and sheep)

7.30am to 8.45am: Outstanding table entries to be staged

9.00am: Judging commences of table exhibits

9.30am: The judging of cattle starts, and the event opens to the public

12pm: Champion beast judging

12:30pm: Judging of sheep commences

2:00pm: Trophies are awarded for cattle, sheep and farm produce

2:15pm: Auction begins for fundraising

2:30pm: Cattle and sheep auction

3:30pm to 4:30pm: The cattle and sheep leave the event

6:00pm: Presentation of trophies for domestic and children

6:30pm: Evening activities begin

History of The Primestock Show

Back in December 1902, the West Briton & Royal Cornwall Gazette had a headline of “Truro Fat Stock Show – The Biggest in the County”. The article stated that the show lacked in importance, and this was due to the size of the city; this resulted in Truro citizens deciding to host a proper Truro Fat Stock Show. The request was taken up by the Truro Mercantile Association, and then the Fat Stock Society was created. Up until 1907, the show continued to be held at the Cattle Market to which they relocated to the City Hall. The annual event was referred to as a huge day for Truro, and it was the day that the country comes to the town. The show took place annually at Truro City Hall, apart from some breaks for the two World Wars and the foot and mouth disease in 1967.

Unfortunately, in 1985, safety regulations and the proposed development of the City Hall resulted in the society having to relocate and search for a new site. It was then moved to the outside of the city to the Livestock Centre, and the name of the event was changed from Fatstock to Primestock, much to the disappointment of many traditionalists who felt that fat was a necessity to make the meat flavoursome. Then, in 1990, it was decided that 2002 would be a big year; the Queen’s Jubilee, 125th anniversary of Truro becoming a city and when The Primestock Show would celebrate 100 years. With this in mind, it was decided that the show should be moved back into the city centre and this is when they moved to Lemon Quay. Since then, the event has been held in a marquee at Lemon Quay due to the success of the centenary show.

Here at The Valley, we have a range of luxury Cornish cottages in Truro, so what better place to stay when visiting The Primestock Show? Our accommodation is family-friendly, and we welcome dogs to join in on the holiday fun. While you are in Cornwall, there are many things to do as well as The Primestock Show, so take a look at these weird and wonderful places.

Where to Meet Father Christmas in Cornwall

November 11th, 2019

Cornwall is a brilliant place to be for the festive period, with exciting winter wonderlands and cosy Christmas grottos found across the county! In this blog, we take a look at where you can find Santa this Christmas.

Father Christmas Experience at the Eden Project

Meet Father Christmas and his Elves while they stay at the Eden Project and catch a glimpse of what life is like for Santa behind the scenes! You’ll be able to take a peep at where the elves sleep each night, as well as where all the letters that children from around the world send get stored! Settle down in front of the open fire and enjoy a magical tale read by Santa himself! The experience runs several times a day from Saturday 30th November and will run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from this date until the 18th of December. Booking is recommended, and tickets cost £10 for one adult and one child, with additional children at £6. To access the grotto, you will also need an admission ticket or pass to the Eden Project.

Bedruthan’s Sugar and Spice Grotto

Bedruthan Hotel is known for going all out on their grottos and this year is certainly no exception! Walk into a winter wonderland as snow falls around you, settling on the twinkling Christmas trees. A magical grotto awaits, but first, you must journey through the labyrinth of ice caves, where you can make snow angels and throw a snowball or two! The helpful elves along the way also like getting creative, giving you the chance to craft some lovely decorations or gifts. Once you’ve finally reached the Sugar and Spice Grotto, you can help Father Christmas, and Mrs Christmas gather up the gifts for the sleigh – there may even be one in there for you! Finally, make a magical Christmas wish to Mawgan the magic wishing tree!

Open every day from the 30th of November to the 23rd of December, this is one of the most popular Grottos in Cornwall, with some dates already sold out, meaning that booking is essential. Tickets cost £15 for one adult and one child, and £5 for an additional adult.

Santa by Steam

A popular Christmas activity run by Bodmin & Wenford Railway; Santa climbs on board this magical steam train and embarks on an incredible journey for an hour. Bringing his elves along for the journey too, his helpers will lead little ones to the magical grotto where you will meet the man in red himself! As well as getting an early Christmas present, and a photo with Santa, you can also enjoy a tasty mince pie while you wait! Booking is essential, and the train will be running on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from the 30th of November to the 22nd of December, as well as Monday the 23rd and Tuesday the 24th.

Father Christmas at Trebah

Building their magical factory in the gardens, Father Christmas and his elves have created a wonderful place to create amazing gifts. Watch the elves handcraft unique presents before collecting your own gift from Santa himself! Father Christmas has a very busy schedule this year, so will only be visiting Trebah Garden on the 14th of December and the 15th 2019. Tickets cost £9 for children and £5 per adult and booking is essential.

Redruth Public Library Christmas Grotto

Father Christmas will be making an appearance at his special Christmas Grotto at the Redruth Public Library on Saturday 7th, 14th, and 21st of December. Santa and his elves can be found at the cosy reading corner from 10 am until 2 pm for this free event.

Father Christmas Visits Lost Gardens of Heligan

Father Christmas and his elves are warmly welcomed back to the Lost Gardens of Heligan this year. From the 14th to 24th of December, visitors to the Gardens will be able to follow the magic Christmas Trail and discover Father Christmas’ cosy home, where good children will receive a small gift. To be sure he brings the present you want on Christmas Day, you can also write a letter to Santa and pop it into the magical post box underneath the twinkly Christmas lights. Tickets cost £7 per child, and £2 per adult on top of the admission fee for Heligan and advanced booking is recommended.

Santa’s Grotto at Paradise Park

After spotting the delightful collection of creatures that find their home at Paradise Park and playing in the Jungle Barn indoor play area, get into the Christmas spirit by paying a visit to Santa at his grotto. From the 30th of November, Father Christmas will be visiting his grotto from 12 pm to 2 pm on weekends and then every day from the 18th to 24th December! Tickets cost £5.45 per child in addition to entry to the park and can be bought on the day.

Here at The Valley, we offer family-friendly holidays in Cornwall that are perfect for children and adults alike who cannot wait to experience the excitement and magic of this festive time of year. To continue with the festivities, discover the Christmas markets that are taking place near our luxury holiday cottages.

What’s On In December

November 08th, 2019

As the colder weather draws in, Cornwall comes to life with plenty of fun and interesting events taking place across the county. Whether you want to get into the festive spirit, or you’re hoping to try something new, we take a look at what’s on throughout December 2019 in Cornwall.

The Woodfire Sessions

1st to 22nd December

Every Sunday, Polurrian on the Lizard hosts Woodfire Sessions where you can enjoy some delicious food and drink while listening to some fantastic live music. On Sunday the 8th, The Velvets will be performing; they are a three-part harmony trio that sings smooth, soulful sounds from throughout the decades. On Sunday 15th, Scenic Route will perform original music and delicate covers of some well-known songs. The male and female duet have a passion for melodic ballads and also a talent for writing emotive songs. On Sunday the 22nd, A Little Twisted, a female duo will take to the stage and showcase their beautiful harmonies, you can expect acoustic covers of well-known songs from the 90s through to now. A night spent with friends and family eating good food and listening to a live band is a night well spent!

Truro Primestock Show

4th December

What better way to immerse yourself in the countryside lifestyle that Cornwall offers than attending a prime stock show? You can see up close the very best of Cornwall’s beef cattle and sheep, who will be judged and then sold. But this isn’t all that the event has to offer; there are also wonderful shows and exhibitions of farm produce, as well as cookery, art, craft, photography and an array of others. Furthermore, at 6:30 pm, there is a Young Handlers competition; children and young people from local farms showcase their skills and abilities to lead and handle beef and dairy calves. The marquee is open from 9:30 am, and the event goes on till late, so it is a great day out and one for everyone to enjoy.

Heligan by Night – The Art of Illumination

19th December to January

From December through to January, The Lost Gardens of Heligan are hosting a nighttime show. The light artist Ulf Pedersen creates a unique selection of projects that will come to life throughout the hedges and walls of the historical landscape of Heligan. The fascinating illuminations and colours create a dazzling and immersive experience that is not to be missed. Ulf aims to transport the visitors into a different environment with every twist and turn they make. He has travelled for over 15 years bringing his work to places such as Australia, Hong Kong, Iceland and New Zealand. His shows are known for attracting tens of thousands of people, and the spectacle is one we highly recommend you visit.

Ice Skating at the Eden Project

Throughout December

Get yourself into the festive spirit and take to the ice at the Eden Project. It is the only indoor ice rink in Cornwall, and it is open until the 23rd of February 2020; you can go ice skating, book toddler sessions, and lessons. If your little one isn’t too confident on the ice, then you can book a penguin skating aid for £4. There are also snowman skating aids available that are for children with accessibility needs, which means everyone can get into the festivities and enjoy a skate around the rink. General skating sessions are 40 minutes long, and prices are as follows; adult is £7, a child is £6, or you can purchase a family ticket for £24 (a mixture of four adults or children).

We hope that we’ve given you some inspiration on how to spend your December and what events to attend in Cornwall. For more festivities, take a look at the Christmas markets Near Truro; a perfect place to try some delicious food, pick up some presents and maybe a gift or two for yourself. If you decide to visit the beautiful Cornish county for the festive period, then look no further than The Valley! Hidden away in 13 acres of gardens and woodland, The Valley is the perfect countryside getaway, and we offer child-friendly cottages in Cornwall.

Truro City of Lights 2019

October 10th, 2019

Each year, around 30,000 people gather in Truro for one of the greatest events in the Cornish calendar at Christmas. Now in its 23rd year, the hugely anticipated Truro City of Lights event sees a parade of creativity from members of the local community. The epic lantern parade and lights switch-on celebration is a staple part of the festive season in Truro, and will be celebrated on Wednesday 20th November 2019.

 

(more…)

Camborne Christmas Lantern Parade

December 12th, 2017

Next week on Tuesday 19th December, Camborne will be glowing with festive cheer at it’s annual Christmas lantern parade. For over ten years now, the young and old alike in Camborne gather to celebrate Christmas with a festive parade featuring lanterns handmade by the local school children. The whole town is brought together to enjoy the lights and music on display.

Children of all age ranges, from ten different schools in the area, will carry their lanterns in a procession through the town. Most of the lanterns will be beautifully handmade by the children using willow and paper. Father Christmas will lead the way, travelling through the town accompanied by the children. Bringing some warmth to the winter weather will be the School Samba Band and Brigade Band, playing some South American inspired music to boost the exciting carnival atmosphere of the event. Alongside the parade, more musical entertainment will also be taking place at the end of the procession, with a performance from the Odd Squad Quartet.

The parade begins at 6.30pm from Rectory Road, travelling along Commercial Street, before heading through Cross Street, Union Street and Trelowarren Street and into the Town Square. The parade will then turn back along Commercial Street to end outside the church, where there will be musical festivities!

Before the parade, from 4.45pm until 6.30pm there will be other musical entertainment in Commercial Square, featuring Pirate FM, Pipes and Drums group and the Cornish choir, Proper Job.

If you are visiting the area on the day of the parade, be aware that all of the roads mentioned along the parade route will be closed to all traffic from 5.30pm, and will not re-open until around 8.30pm after the parade has come to an end. This event is free to attend.

If you want to visit the Christmas lantern parade and all of the other exciting festive activities happening in Cornwall this year, then it is never too late to book Cornwall short breaks in Falmouth or Truro! Why not visit before Christmas to get into the festive spirit and pick up those last minute presents from all of the Christmas markets on offer!

Festival of Light and Sound

November 29th, 2017

The Eden Project is an incredible place to visit at any time of the year, but you can make your Cornwall Christmas holidays even more special by taking a trip to the indoor rainforest during the Festival of Light and Sound. The Festival will entail a display of music, light and colour, featuring light projections and dramatic soundscapes.

Experiencing the Eden Project Rainforest and Mediterranean Biomes after-dark is a thrilling event in itself, but viewing them from above, on the 50-metre high lookout as choreographed performances of light and sound occur around you is certainly something else! Last year, the event reached the top of The Guardian’s list of top Christmas spectaculars, and it is set to be just as incredible this year.

The Festival of Light and Sound is a collaboration between the Eden Project, their creative partners, EdenLAB, and Chris Levine, an artist renowned for working with lights. Levine is the artist responsible for creating the laser light tribute to David Bowie at Glastonbury festival last year, so his work is innovative and highly commended. Working alongside them are a number of songwriters, spatial audio artists and designers to form the magically entrancing sounds that will accompany the light show. Marco Perry, Bjork’s spatial sound designer, forms part of this team too, making this one captivating experience you will not want to miss.

The Mediterranean Biome will also be playing host to a bar, where you can treat yourself to a nice bottle of bubbly or a warming mug of mulled wine and tasty nibbles. Here, local choirs, singers and performers will be entertaining visitors.

The event will be running on a number of dates, starting from the weekend of the 1st-3rd December, and the following dates; 8-10, 15-23, 27-30 December, from 5pm until 8pm. It is free to attend with a standard admission to the Eden Project, and no pre-booking will be required.

While you are at the Eden Project, join in with the other festive fun on offer there, such as ice skating, meeting Father Christmas and getting creative with some seasonal crafts!

Family Friendly Christmas Markets and Fairs in Falmouth and Truro

November 17th, 2017

Each year, Christmas markets hit the streets of Truro and Falmouth, all boasting an impressive range of local produce and crafts. But which ones should you visit? We’re here with a guide to the best family-friendly Christmas markets for you to visit this holiday season. It’ll be hard not to find a few gifts here!

 

Made in Cornwall Market

The Marquee, Lemon Quay, Truro

One of the biggest events this Christmas in Cornwall is the Made in Cornwall Market in Truro. Over ninety traders from the local area will gather to put their handmade gifts and produce on offer. The Made in Cornwall status means that the products on sale are authentic to the area, ensuring that you are getting an original gift, made with love. Stock up on some scrumptious nibbles and pick up some unique presents, all of which can’t be found elsewhere in the country.

Wednesday 29 November to Sunday 3 December 2017

Opening Hours:

10 am – 9 pm Wednesday

10 am – 5 pm Thursday to Saturday

10.30 am – 4.30 pm Sunday

 

The Winter Gift Fayre

Lemon Quay, Truro

New to Truro this year, the Winter Gift Fayre is bringing some Christmassy treats to Lemon Quay. With over seventy stalls of quality products, there will be something for everyone. If you’re visiting with kids, Father Christmas will be making an appearance on Wednesday 13th at the Pannier Market to greet children. On the 15th, visit the Cathedral for a carol singing experience at 7.30pm.

Tuesday 12 December to Sunday 17 December

Opening Hours:

9 am – 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday

9 am – 9 pm Wednesday

10 am – 4 pm Sunday

 

The Poly Christmas Market

The Poly, 24 Church St, Falmouth

If you’re looking for some truly original handmade Christmas gifts, The Poly is certainly the place to visit. Featuring designs from local craftspeople, there are plenty of unique and innovative gifts to discover here. Refreshments will also be available here to keep you warm and fuelled up for the late night shopping events.

Monday 27 November to Sunday 24 December

Opening Hours:

10 am – 7 pm every day

10 am – 8 pm late night shopping, Thursday 30th November and Thursday 21st December

 

Truro Primestock Show

The Marquee, Lemon Quay, Truro

The Primestock Show brings the country to the city again this Christmas. The Truro show is actually the only primestock show in Britain to take to the streets, and this year marks its 115th year of doing so. During the day, the show will take place, exhibiting and judging local produce, cattle and sheep. Farm produce and preserves will also be on offer at stalls throughout the day. In the evening, family entertainment will be put on, including exhibitions of pigs, ducks and chickens for the children to enjoy. The Wednesday night will end with a charity auction. On the Friday and Saturday following the show, the Christmas Craft and Food Fair will be put on by the Primestock Society, with around 40 stands filled with arts, craft and photography.

Wednesday 6th December – Primestock Show

Open to the Public from 9.30 am

Evening Activities from 6.30 pm

Friday 8th to Saturday 9th December – Primestock Christmas Craft and Food Fair

 

Flambards Christmas Craft Fair

Flambards Theme Park, Helston

A trip to Flambards Theme Park makes the perfect family day out any day of the year, but it’s even more amazing at Christmas once the fair arrives. Local craft and business stalls will be open throughout the day selling gifts, ideal to take home to your loved ones for Christmas. Your day will be packed with entertainment, with all that’s on offer at the theme park. Wander around the Victorian Village exhibitions, and if you’ve been good this year, you may get a chance to meet Santa. If you want to just sit back and relax, you can enjoy a warming drink as the Helston Town Band entertains you with festive hits.

Saturday 2nd December to Sunday 3rd December

Stalls open 10 am to 4 pm

Entrance £1 per person

 

Heartlands Christmas Market Weekend

Chi an Bobel Hall, Heartlands

Have festive fun at Heartlands, as the Christmas Market Weekend returns. The free family-friendly event will see your bags filled with jewellery, local art and tasty treats. As well as finding your perfect presents, the local choirs and brass bands will be entertaining you with Christmassy tunes that are sure to get you into the festive spirit. While you’re there, take a stroll around the beautiful gardens, explore the adventure playground and experience the art galleries, amongst other exciting things to do at Heartlands.

Saturday 16th December to Sunday 17th December

Opening Hours:

11 am to 4 pm

 

If you are planning on Cornwall Christmas holidays this year, will you be visiting any of these markets? Let us know which ones you visit on social media.

Where to See Father Christmas in Cornwall

November 14th, 2017

As December gets closer, the festive season is fast approaching. With a wide range of activities taking place over the coming weeks, it is time to get excited about how you and the family will be spreading Christmas spirit!

No Christmas with children is complete without a visit to Father Christmas in his grotto to share your wishes for the gifts you’ll receive on Christmas morning. There are a wide variety of events taking place over the region over the coming months, so we’ve compiled a few of our favourites to get you started!

Lanhydrock

The whole family will thoroughly enjoy this traditional Christmas experience at Lanhydrock, an impressive Victorian country house managed by the National Trust. Step back in time to see how the Agar-Robartes family would have prepared for their big Christmas dinner. With the halls, dining room and garden all decorated to replicate the style popular during the Victorian era, step inside to warm by the roaring fire before discovering the dishes you could have expected if joining the Agar-Robartes for dinner.

From 16th-24th December, your children can even sit down with Father Christmas to share their Christmas wishes. There is limited availability to see Santa, so booking in advance is advised, however, with a host of other activities for you to partake in, why not make a day of it?

Eden Project

This year, visit the Eden Project for a chat with Father Christmas and his Elves. From late November, you and your family will be able to take a look behind the scenes, visiting the elves bunkbeds before taking a look at the pigeon holes with every child’s letter in! If your little ones are yet to send their letter, why not sit down with Father Christmas, who is keen to meet all the family, where he’ll share one of his favourite Christmas stories with you besides the fire.

This extraordinary experience is open from November 25th and costs £6 per child, with adults paying £4 to get involved. Booking is available online via the Eden Project website, so have a look at plan your trip today!

Bodmin Railway

From December 2nd, you and the family can head down to Bodmin railway to enjoy a ride on a steam hauled train with a twist! Father Christmas and his Elves will be there to join you both on the train and in his grotto, where there are light refreshments for the adults and a present for the children!

All tickets must be booked in advance, with prices ranging from £13 – £15.50 depending on your selected date.

Newquay Zoo

Join the animals at Newquay Zoo on the 16th – 17th December for a fun-filled weekend. Jungle All The Way promises to be a weekend of festive fun for all, with many activities on offer for you to enjoy. Whether you’re following the candy trail to win your special prize or joining Santa to listen to some classic Christmas stories, you’re all sure to have a wonderful day full of Christmas spirit!

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Explore the Christmas trail in the wonderful Lost Gardens of Heligan from December 16th – 24th. Santa and his Elves will be there to meet your children, with plenty of photo opportunities of them bonding by the lovely fire. There are a host of other activities for you all to enjoy, including arts and crafts in the Steward’s House.

If you’re planning on spending a day at the gardens, why not stay to view Heligan at Night, a fantastic show of illuminating lights? Showcasing the gardens in a never before seen way, the new textures and colours make Heligan all the more captivating.

Tickets for Santa’s visit are on sale on heligan.com, where you can also find more information about the Heligan at Night display.

If you’re planning a getaway, we have a range of accommodation perfect for a Christmas cottage holidays. Cornwall over the coming weeks is the perfect time to spend the festive season, with a host of events taking place. For more information, take a look at our blog here.