Cornwall in December

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Tudor National Trust house, Trerice, in Cornwall
Trerice 

December has got off to a cracking start here in Cornwall, with stunning pink sunrises and burning gold sunsets. There is a different feel to the county in the Winter season, a combination of bracing walks with family and friends, empty beaches and very happy dogs (so many beaches become available to dogs out of season) coupled with the cosiness of traditional pubs and the plentiful craft markets.

Delicious crispy plaice ciabatta at the Longstore, Charlestown, Cornwall
The Longstore, Charlestown


Last weekend I headed to Trerice, a National Trust house near Newquay. Despite being mainly closed for the winter you can go on a guided tour of the house with the conservationists. This is quite fascinating, seeing a different side to the grand operation and hearing the more recent history of this ancient home that inspired the writer of Poldark.

learning about the centuries-year-old-clocks and precious paintings was a lovely way to spend a grey day. Most of the National Trust houses have events going on through the winter, the private houses too, although with reduced hours, do tend to open their doors for specific events.

Watching the winter seas in the Mid Century Modern hotel at Bedruthan Steps
Wild Cafe, The Bedruthan Hotel


With the weather being what it was, rather bleak! We thought the best thing to do is to storm watch from the comfort of a chair with a warming up of coffee. Following the coastal road we stopped at the Bedruthan Hotel to sit in their Wild Cafe and enjoy chunky chips as we watched the waves break below.

Pink sunrise in Cornwall
Sunrise over Lostwithiel 


I think it's that contrast that encourages my warm feeling to Cornwall in the winter. Bitter walks with rewarding views, the limited light makes you want to savour every frame, followed by hearty food and great ales in pubs. I'm partial to craft fairs and foodie treats and there are quite a few this season to seek-out and enjoy.

Winter in Charlestown, Cornwall
Charlestown


My best tip for December is to embrace it, perhaps read some of the literature that this county has inspired. Enjoy that stillness and quietness of the landscape or congregate with family and friends, feasting on our plentiful and award winning local delicacies.  

Quite a surprise to find this fella was real! In the Duchy Nursery cafe and shop
Cosy cat at the Duchy Nursery 

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