Things to do early December in St Ives, Cornwall

Christmas is already on the horizon however there is plenty of opportunities to sit back and relax before all the festivities begin. St Ives in Autumn is a wonderful time of the year to visit and you will discover Cornwall from a different angle where the sea becomes wilder and the town quieter.

1. Of course, Christmas Shopping

St Ives town has got plenty of shops on Fore Street and along the Harbour for you to find the perfect gift. As we like to promote local businesses here at The Sail Lofts, we would recommend to have a look at the wonderful shop Sweet Lime if you are looking for some stylish items to decorate the house or Oska if you are after some fair trade pieces of clothing. Early December will also mean the beginning of Christmas markets. Truro Christmas Fayre will begin on 26th November and Padstow will start on 5th December.

2. Dog Walking

The dog ban will be lifted from the end of September so taking your dog on the beach everyday is a real treat. As they all become quieter at this time of the year, there is nothing more enjoyable than playing with your four-legged friend wrapped up in your warm coat and looking at the beautiful sea in front of you.

3. Going out for food

Most places will be open throughout December in St Ives and it is the perfect occasion to treat yourself to an early Christmas lunch before it gets busier. Restaurants usually start serving their Christmas menu early December so this is the perfect occasion to grab a drink and start feeling merry.

4. Cinema

If the weather is not quite dry enough for walking or being outside, we strongly recommend you to check out Newlyn Cinema. Recently refurbished, this wonderful cinema is about 20 minutes away from St Ives and offers a unique atmosphere to enjoy an international movie or an art film. The restaurant on site is definitely worth a visit as it offers a variety of tasty international dishes.

5. Warm drinks by cosy fires

Our favourite activity during the colder months will definitely be to enjoy a warm drink by cosy fires. In St Ives, Pedn Olva has a breath taking view over the harbour and a cosy fire in the middle of their lounge with comfy sofas to get in you in the mood of winter. Just at the top of town, The Halsetown Inn has also a fire and delivers fantastic food in a relaxed but sophisticated setting. Dogs are welcome too.

6. Coastal walks

You may think that it will be either too windy or rainy for coastal walks but this is the perfect time to feel the elements. From Godrevy to Zennor, coastal paths are everywhere and there is no better way to discover the beauty of this county, If you are planning for a hike, we would recommend you to use the App Iwalk which will guide through the South West Coastline and will help you stay on track.

7. Christmas Lights

St Ives usually start displaying their Christmas Lights early December and the Harbour becomes wonderfully lit at night. From 14th December, Mousehole Harbour is definitely worth a visit as the Christmas decoration have become a big part of Mousehole history over the years.

8. Surfing is at its best

The water may be colder but if you are into surfing, early December will offer you the best waves. Porthmeor Beach will become quieter however the sea will remain fairly busy with all the surfers taking part in this forever hunt of finding the perfect wave. If you've always wanted to give it a go, make sure to check St Ives Surf School.

9. Stay cosy in your apartment

There is no better time of the year to stay cosy in your luxury apartment in St Ives and enjoy your book wrapped up in a blanket. As we all need time to unwind and relax, book your next trip to St Ives with no plans for the week ahead and enjoy you well-deserved break by the sea the way you want to.

10. It is nearly Christmas !

After all, Christmas is our favourite time of the year and it is a fantastic time to visit St Ives and get us in the mood. From Christmas Shopping to Surfing, early December is a wonderful time to discover the town from a different angle and the beauty that Cornwall has to offer. With plenty of shops around, St Ives will definitely be the perfect place to start Christmas Shopping if you haven't already. Many Christmas markets will also take place around the county and it is a great opportunity to discover the work of local artists.

Check our availability now and book your next holiday by the sea now.