Whilst Cornwall’s summers often steal the spotlight, the county’s true magic unfolds in autumn and winter – an underrated secret waiting to be discovered. Gone are the summer crowds, leaving behind peaceful landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and some of the best ocean conditions of the year. Autumn brings with it the hustle of nature preparing for winter, offering the chance to spot migratory birds and squirrels busily nesting. Winter, on the other hand, is perfect for crisp coastal walks followed by a cosy pub lunch, where you can truly experience Cornwall's tranquil charm.

If you're looking to shake off the winter blues or try something different this season, a Cornish getaway might be closer – and more rewarding – than you think. Not only is it an opportunity for true relaxation, but visiting in the off-season is also a more sustainable way to travel. With fewer visitors, there’s less impact on nature, and the journey itself is just a short trip away. Discover the hidden beauty of Cornwall in the quieter months, and see for yourself why it’s the best time to visit.

Why the Cornish Place is perfect for your Cornish Christmas getaway

Set amidst 26 acres of beautiful Cornish farmland, The Cornish Place offers the ideal setting for a peaceful and rejuvenating Christmas break. Our self-catered holiday cottages in Cornwall provide the perfect base for exploring Cornwall in the off-season, with some of the county’s best winter attractions just a short drive away. Whether you want to visit St Michael’s Mount, take a trip to the Jubilee Geothermal Pool, enjoy stunning Christmas light displays, or explore both the north and south coasts, everything is within easy reach.

For those seeking a dog-friendly Christmas holiday, we welcome your furry friends to join the celebrations, making it a true family getaway. After a day of exploring, indulge in the ultimate relaxation with our wood-fired outdoor hot tubs, perfect for unwinding in any weather whilst soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

Our cottages feature fully-equipped kitchens, so you can prepare delicious meals using fresh, local Cornish produce, renowned for being some of the finest in the country. If you prefer to let someone else do the cooking, there are excellent local pubs, hotels, and restaurants nearby offering Christmas lunches and festive dining experiences.

With the calm, unhurried atmosphere of Cornwall in winter, combined with the cosy comforts of our cottages, Christmas at The Cornish Place is truly a time to slow down, reconnect, and create lasting memories.

Interested in a Cornwall Christmas getaway? Get in touch with us today to learn more about availability and how we can make your holiday special. But hurry – our cottages fill up quickly, so don’t wait too long to secure your perfect Christmas retreat!

Why is Cornwall better in the off-season?

It’s time to uncover one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets and discover why you should visit in the off-season.

Escape the crowds

*Nothing better than walking on a Cornish Beach in winter!*

If you're seeking peace and tranquillity, a Cornish autumn or winter retreat is the perfect escape. With fewer visitors, it's much easier to find parking, access attractions, and enjoy the stunning landscape – sometimes walking for miles along the South West Coast Path without encountering another person. Whilst some smaller coastal villages, like Port Isaac, may quiet down in the off-season, many areas remain vibrant and welcoming year-round.

A short drive from The Cornish Place brings you to Falmouth, Penzance, and Newquay – all fantastic destinations that offer plenty to see and do, no matter the season. Whether you're exploring historic harbours, indulging in local cuisine, or enjoying the fresh sea air, these towns are perfect for an off-season visit.

Wildlife in abundance

In summer, the fields are painted with wildflowers, but it's in autumn that Cornish wildlife truly comes to life. Squirrels busily prepare their nests, while hedgerows burst with ripening berries. Grey seals also begin their pupping season, and if you're lucky, you can spot adorable seal pups resting along the sheltered Cornish coves. Autumn sunsets are particularly breathtaking, with our cottages offering the perfect view as the sun dips below the horizon or rises over the rolling fields. Throughout winter migratory birds are a sight to behold, with rare species from around Europe making their way to mild, Cornish shores. You can also spot mesmerising starling murmurations, one of nature’s greatest wonders.

You get the beach to yourself

*Deserted beaches in winter are perfect for a dog walk.*

Cornwall is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches, but in the height of summer, they can become quite crowded. Whilst sunshine and sand are a fantastic combination, it’s often challenging to find a quiet spot during peak season. In contrast, the peace and tranquillity of an autumn or winter beach is unmatched. Picture yourself wrapped up warm, walking for miles along the coastline, with nothing but breathtaking views and seabirds as your companions. The sight of waves crashing onto the shore is both calming and awe-inspiring.

To make your beach visit even more rewarding, autumn and winter are also a great time for participating in beach cleans. With the powerful Atlantic swells comes an unfortunate influx of ocean debris washed up on the sand. Even collecting just a few items and disposing of them properly can have a positive impact, helping to preserve Cornwall’s natural beauty long into the future.

It’s the best time to get in the sea

*The sea is warm and the waves are great in the autumn.*

Cornish waters reach their warmest temperatures in autumn, with October offering peak warmth. This season also brings ocean swells, making it the perfect time for surfers to return to the waves. For quieter coastal swims, head to the south coast, whilst the north coast is ideal for catching the surf. One of the things we love most about our central location at The Cornish Place is that you're within easy reach of both coasts, allowing you to enjoy the best of Cornwall's waters no matter your preference.

However, it's important to remember that there are no lifeguards on duty during the off-season, so only swim where there are other people around, and avoid entering the water if the waves are too large. For the ultimate oceanic experience, pair your beach day with a visit to one of the beachside saunas that pop up across Cornwall during autumn and winter – offering a sensational way to warm up after your coastal adventures.

Cosy cottages in Cornwall

*Three of our four cottages have woodburning stoves.*

Whilst it’s true that off-season weather in Cornwall can be unpredictable, autumn and winter bring plenty of crisp, bluebird days that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Even if you encounter some rainy spells during your visit, the magic of the season is still very much alive.

For those who embrace the concept of hygge, a Scandinavian philosophy that celebrates the cosiness of winter, Cornwall is an ideal destination. Our charming cottages provide the perfect retreat, allowing you to hunker down amidst nature, with stunning wildlife walks right on your doorstep. Many of our cottages feature wood-burning fires and hot tubs, ensuring you can indulge in the ultimate cosy experience after a day of exploration. Whether you’re warming up by the fire or soaking under the stars, you’ll find the comfort and relaxation you’re seeking.

There are still plenty of events and things to do

*St Michael's Mount is a perfect winter attraction.*

Autumn in Cornwall offers a vibrant lineup of events and activities, perfect for an off-season visit. Newquay Beer Festival kicks off in late September, whilst Falmouth Book Festival takes place in mid-October, following the town’s Oyster Festival for those who love fresh seafood. The iconic Minack Theatre, perched dramatically above Porthcurno, hosts open-air performances and screenings through to the end of October. The Eden Project is buzzing with events year-round, featuring art exhibitions, music concerts, and the popular winter ice rink.

As the holiday season approaches, Cornwall comes alive with Christmas markets. However, farmers markets are held on weekends year-round. Other year-round attractions include St Michael’s Mount, Falmouth’s Maritime Museum and the beautifully restored Hall for Cornwall in Truro, which regularly features theatre, live music, and cultural events.

The off-season is the best time for dogs

Cornwall is renowned as one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the UK, but autumn and winter are the best times to bring your furry friend. With cooler weather and fewer crowds, exploring the South West Coast Path becomes even more enjoyable for both you and your dog. The quieter season means dog-friendly pubs and restaurants are less busy, offering plenty of space to relax after a long walk. Many of Cornwall’s eateries welcome dogs, so you can easily plan a stop for a hearty meal along the way.

One of the biggest advantages of visiting in the off-season is the lifting of seasonal dog bans. During autumn and winter, your dog is free to roam most of Cornwall’s stunning beaches, making it the perfect time for coastal adventures.

Plan your trip

Now we’ve let you in on the secret, you know why we love Cornwall in the off-season. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch now to secure your autumn or winter booking.

Beyond summer: Why Cornwall is Better in the Off Season

Why the Cornish Place is perfect for your Cornish Christmas getaway