Planning your New Year’s Eve in Cornwall

While winter is a traditionally quieter season for visitors to Cornwall, there’s no doubt the county has made its mark as one of the best places to celebrate the incoming year.

With iconic street parties (more on that, later), fireworks displays and revelry, it could rival even the likes of Hogmanay in Edinburgh! The best part? Thanks to our milder winters, this region is usually warmer than other places across the UK, making it ideal for outdoor events and fun.

There’s plenty to do for non-party goers, too. From enjoying stunning New Year’s Day walks across the awe-inspiring South West Coast Path, to hunkering down away from the hustle and bustle (with just the sound of the waves outside your window as the clock strikes midnight), there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re dancing the night away at a lively party or braving the chill for a traditional New Year’s Day swim, you’ll feel like one of the locals!

For an exhilarating start to the year, don’t miss Cornwall’s traditional New Year’s Day swims. Held at numerous beaches across the county, these bracing dips in the icy ocean are as refreshing as they are memorable – and there’s no better way to feel like a local.

Key swim events include:

Newquay Harbour Beach charity swim – 1.30pm

Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth – 12pm

Looe Beach, Looe – 11am

Gorran Haven charity swim, nr Mevagissey –  11am

Our top tips for braving a New Year’s Day swim? Don’t forget your hot flask of tea, gloves and hat to warm up after! While most people try to brave the swim without a wetsuit we won’t judge you (much) if you can’t quite face the chill in your bathers. Don’t forget, if the waves are too big, don’t go in (you can check out the dos and don’ts of festive wild swimming, right here)!