Dreaming of a magical Christmas in Cornwall? Picture wintery beach walks wrapped in woolly hats; mulled wine in quaint Cornish pubs; Christmas lights adorning seaside villages, and dreamy holiday homes waiting to embrace you for the festive period. Sound tempting? Why not book a holiday in St Ives for Christmas or New Year (or both!) with Aspects Holidays?
St Ives truly embraces the spirit of Christmas during the festive season; twinkling lights flicker above the cobbles of Fore Street, festive aromas drift through the air, and decorations adorn shop windows lining the streets. It’s a joyous time to experience St Ives and its cheerful charm during these magical winter months.
St Ives knows how to begin the season in style, seeing Santa arrive at the harbour by lifeboat, accompanied by RNLI crew members. This extravagant entrance marks the start of St Ives in December - the annual event showcasing all things Chrismassy in the town.
Things to do
Soak up the atmosphere
Walk through the quaint streets of St Ives in December to experience the magic this little town exudes. Picture festive fudge made before your eyes; speciality Cornish spirits to sample; book shops with local readings; Christmas markets selling locally-made goods, and shops with gifts aplenty. From Fore Street to the Harbour, magical moments await.
Visit the beach
With a beach for almost every day of the week, St Ives is blessed with sand and sea aplenty. Whether you want to let the kids run off steam, enjoy a leisurely wintery walk, or brave a refreshing sea dip, choose from the expansive sand of Porthmeor, or the convenience of Harbour beach. Treat yourselves to a post-beach hot chocolate to fuel those cosy winter vibes.
Indulge in local foodie delights
After traversing cobbles and coves, take a break at one of the many independent eateries in St Ives. Whether you’re seeking a comforting homemade lunch, a warming brew with a view, a locally sourced light bite, or a refreshing beverage, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Cosy pubs, quirky cafes and modern restaurants can be found along the seafront, amid the cobbled streets, and nestled down quaint alleyways.
Boxing Day swim on Porthminster beach
Brave the cool seawater and embrace the tradition of a Boxing Day ‘swim’ at Porthminster beach. Join hundreds of beachgoers wearing Santa hats, as they run down to the sea, launching into the water for a quick dip before running back to dry land. This long-standing community event brings everyone together at this special time of year.
NYE party and fireworks
One of the most famous New Year’s Eve parties in Cornwall (and beyond), the town comes alive with activity and excitement for the final night of the year. Drawing crowds from near and far, the streets are filled with people dressed in costumes, from zombies and superheroes to penguins and pirates! It’s a chance to don your favourite costume and see in the new year in style.
Get cultural
Looking to add some culture to your Christmas celebrations? Combining art, history and literacy, St Ives boasts fantastic cultural and heritage links. Take a moment away from the hustle and bustle to visit the famous Tate Gallery and Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden, or step back in time with a visit to the fascinating St Ives Museum. Find out what shaped St Ives into the place it is today; from its fishing past to the artists that called St Ives home.
Where to stay
Aspects Holidays offers a range of beautiful properties in this gorgeous seaside town. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront apartment, a cosy Cornish cottage, or a large family holiday home, there’s something for everyone. And, with many properties decorated for Christmas, you can simply arrive at your home from home and get the Christmas vibes rolling.
See all holiday cottages in St Ives with availability this Christmas and New Year >
