Things To Do During Christmas Holidays in St Ives
Cornwall’s attractions offer a mix of experiences, with some open all year-round, some are closed for Christmas, and some purely seasonal. So what, in our opinion, is well worth a visit and gives you the bigger festive bang for your buck? Read the below for some suggestions on things to do when staying in St Ives this Twixmas.
Lost Garden of Heligan Night Lights
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is worth a visit any time of year, however, in the winter, they have the most magnificent, magical lights. These are not just your normal Christmas lights, they are more like illuminated sculptures. On arrival, show your tickets at the entrance where there are toilets and facilities, which we recommend using before you begin.
You will follow a marked walking route through the gardens and grounds, ensuring you don’t miss anything. Wear good walking shoes and warm clothing. The walk is not particularly challenging, but it is not paved, and there are limited opportunities to sit and rest. The lights are thoughtfully installed, using the garden’s natural terrain. Partway through, there is an option to toast marshmallows on a fire, and at the end, mulled cider and other drinks are available. The restaurant at Heligan is also very popular; we recommend calling ahead for opening times and other information if you plan to eat there. Tickets must be booked in advance online from their website.
Eden Lights and Ice Skating
Eden Ice Rink
The Eden Project near St Austell is on most people’s Cornwall bucket list. At this time of year, they have brilliant twinkly lights, transforming the site into a winter wonderland. The biomes are always captivating, but the main attraction for locals and visitors alike is the ice rink. There are different bookable sessions on their website. The website can be a bit clunky for booking due to the many options, but you will need to book an ordinary Eden ticket and then book ice skating as an additional extra with specific time slots.
If you are not confident on skates and have children with you, we recommend booking a penguin aid. It is well worth the price, allowing your kids to skate, fall, and get up with some independence, reducing injury chances compared to attempting to support them and yourselves (could be disastrous!) The food options are good, and access and facilities at Eden are excellent. Weather will not affect your visit, making it a dependable option.
Angarrack Christmas Lights
Angarrack is a village just a stone’s throw from St Ives, just outside Hayle. The village has a famous light display based on the 12 Days of Christmas. The best way to see them is to park outside the village at the industrial estate or the rugby club near M&S and then walk the route through. You will need warm clothing, good footwear, and a torch would be advisable. There is no entrance fee or charges, and the lights run from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm daily. There is a village pub if you’d like to warm up with some hearty food and a pint of something Cornish. With over 40 different installations, it often exceeds people’s expectations. They have a Facebook page worth checking for the best route to walk.
Winter Wood by Rogue Theatre
On the wild north cliffs, you’ll find Tehidy Woods and the entrance to Rogue Otherworld. Based in the woods, it is quite literally another mystical and magical world. The theatre company creates an immersive, atmospheric theatre experience which begins with a walk through beautifully lit and decorated trees with talented performers along the path. The walk concludes at the stage with undercover theatre seating and a fully stocked bar selling hot and cold drinks and snacks.
They hold several performances a year based around the seasons. This year’s winter performance features Old Man Winter, the great, great, great grandfather to Father Christmas, bringing one of his magical tales to life on stage with a talented cast. The intertwining of magic, winter, and wishes will get you thinking about the New Year and casting your hopes and dreams for the future. This is for everyone and something quite special. Florence, aged 7, said that she closed her eyes while the fairy sang and felt simply wonderful. Book ahead as there are range of performance times and ticket options on their website.
Pantomine at Hall For Cornwall
Photo Credit: hallforcornwall.co.uk/whats-on/jack-and-the-beanstalk
This year’s production is Jack and The Beanstalk, with local celebrity Edward Rowe otherwise known at Kernow King, playing the Dame.
Hall For Cornwall is in Truro where there is plenty of parking within close walking distance of the theatre. The theatre had an impressive refurbishment very recently and it’s a wonderful evening to be enjoyed by all the family. There is a bar and cafe for refreshments and a break out zone for interval catch-ups.
Jack and The Beanstalk is a cast and crew of very talented singers and comedians. The story is narrated by the fairy godmother to Jack who’s voice blows you away and the costumes for the whole production are fabulously designed and made by Falmouth University students. Lyrics are changed on top charting songs that make you feel like dancing and the comedic timing and delivery of the scripts are second-to-none. The audience participation is fun, fun, fun.
Take an umbrella if you are sat in the stalls….!
There are limited tickets still available in the run up to Christmas. There are a few more tickets available between Christmas and New Year so head over to The Hall For Cornwall’s website and book your seats now. You won’t be disappointed, oh no you won’t!
For extra inspiration on things to do when visiting St Ives, read a few of our other blogs below…
Things to Do In St Ives: Candle-making with Bryluen Botanicals, St Ives