Wander Cornwall This November
November 2, 2023The stormy season of November is upon us, but there’s still endless adventures to be had. No matter the weather, we’re getting ready to wrap up warm and embrace the beginning of winter, with our bobble hats to hand. From outdoor adventures with the misty seascape as a backdrop, to hiding from the rain at one of Cornwall’s great eateries, there’s an array of excitement, awaiting your touch.
Exploring The Great Outdoors
November welcomes shorter days and frosty mornings, along with auburn leaves and ever-changing weather, but this creates one of the most beautiful landscapes spotted throughout the entire year. Autumn in Cornwall is often quieter and there’s a heightened sense of calm roaming streets, so it’s perfect for people wanting a less sociable escape. Whether you’re looking to embrace the coastal breeze or to bring a new lease of life into your wellies, there’s plenty of fantastic sights to be seen across Cornwall’s natural playground.
Stroll through the woods –
There’s dozens of mystical woodlands across all the corners of Cornwall, full of wandering streams and crisp leaves. November is an excellent time to tread through the magical trees, as the transition from autumn to winter is most apparent, and inevitably beautiful. Amongst the oh-so wonderful forest landscape, the woodlands are a great place to find shelter from the brisk breeze.
If you’re retreating in the west of Cornwall, take a trip to Tehidy Woods. Situated next to the golf course, this large woodland pans across 9 miles and homes stunning lakes. With a newly opened cafe, this gorgeous forest is the perfect afternoon trip.
Another magical forest to visit this November, is the glorious Coosebean Woods, located just outside of Truro. Home to the Enchanted Fairy Trail, this wonderful woodland hosts a tour of elegant homemade ‘fairy houses’, each one different from the other. Both children and adults alike will love an adventure around this wonderland.
Tread along the beach –
Although susceptible to strong winds during November, Cornwall’s glorious beaches remain open and ready for visiting. If you’re planning on bringing your furry friends with you, a large number of the beaches have dropped their seasonal restrictions, so your pups can roam freely and enjoy getting their paws sandy.
For those planning to stay in the north, Polzeath Beach makes an excellent spot for those seaside expeditions, as it’s located just under the iconic Pentire Point, and moments away from the beautiful Camel Estuary. If you’re an eager storm chaser, this beach is also the ultimate destination for watching the mammoth waves hurl in the sea.
Another impressive beach, nestled in the west, sits in Marazion. With the unspoilt views of St Michael’s Mount as a backdrop, this beach is not to be missed. You can even grab a coffee with your friends and family, in the Beach Box Cafe afterwards.
Explore the flora and fauna –
Across Cornwall, there’s an array of beautiful gardens, all experiencing the magic of the autumn colours and weather. With a variety of sub-tropical flowers and plants, the gardens of Cornwall welcome visitors into their rural wonderland, to admire the natural beauty echoed throughout.
One of the most iconic gardens in Cornwall is undoubtedly The Lost Gardens of Heligan. If you’re lucky enough, you may even be able to visit whilst their festive display of lights is being exhibited, so that you can truly celebrate the seasons in style. This commences on the 17th of November.
Sat just outside of Falmouth, another unmissable destination is Trebah Gardens. With a range of colourful flowers, a private beach and a tempting cafe, this exhibit is perfect for all of the family.
Snuggle Up Indoors –
Perhaps the idea of wandering around in November doesn’t take your fancy, and you’d rather watch the rain fall from inside, with the log fire burning. Although staying at home with your slippers on may sound tempting, there’s a plethora of opportunities to enjoy Cornwall, without having to worry about wrapping up in a dozen layers of woolly jumpers and coats. As well as this, many of Cornwall’s wonderful attractions aren’t as busy in November, so you don’t have to worry about queuing!
Find a cosy restaurant –
Cornwall is blessed with hundreds of fabulous eateries, from handy takeaway shops and cute cafes, to exquisite fine dining restaurants or gastro pubs. Don’t worry about cooking and check out some of the most fantastic menus across the county, largely inspired by local produce.
Recommended by Flo, our Digital Marketing Specialist, Talay Thai in St Ives is an exceptional restaurant, fusing together authentic Thai food and inspiring ingredients. The tapas street-style menu serves something for everyone, whether you’re a lover of food from the land or the sea. You can even grab a tasty cocktail beforehand, at the bar just below, whilst looking out at St Ives Bay.
Serving tempting breakfasts, lunches, desserts and drinks, Espressini in Falmouth is a quirky, artisan coffee shop, for all the espresso lovers. Adored by our Marketing Assistant, Rachel, this cute cafe offers a humble and welcoming atmosphere for all, so it’s a perfect spot to hide away from the stormy skies, and indulge in a slice (or two!) of their freshly baked cake.
Get inspired by local art –
Many Cornish artists, from potters and painters, to designers and decorators, debut their work across the colourful walls of local galleries. Whether you’re a keen crafter yourself, or would prefer to admire another’s work, there’s plenty of fabulous art shops and exhibitions across the county to peak your interest. In many, you can even purchase some limited edition homeware or displays!
In the heart of Port Isaac, Cliffside Gallery was first established in 1997. This working gallery showcases a variety of unique work by local artist Katie Childs, who specialises in colours and textures. You can even get your hands on an array of artwork, ranging from pillowcases to lampshades.
Further into the west coast, Cornwall Contemporary gallery sits in Penzance and shows frequently changing exhibitions, featuring some of Cornwall’s most celebrated artists, such as Alisdair Lindsay, Sophie Carter and Emma Dunbar.
Treat yourself at home –
If you’re staying in one of our luxury Gems this November, then why not indulge in a fantastic extra, to truly enhance your stay. If you’re visiting with someone special, your friends or the entire family, we guarantee that all of your fellow guests will love the treats that we have on offer.
Ready to wash away the winter worries already? Our collaboration with GloPamper means that you can spoil yourself with a luxury spa treatment, all from the comfort of your Gem. Light the wood-burner and get ready for a facial, a massage or another mobile treatment, to ease your soul before the festive rush.
Treat yourself to a tasty dinner with the whole family and arrange for a private chef to cook up your favourite meal in your Gem’s kitchen. There’s no need to worry about dashing to the supermarket in the rain, as your chosen cook will arrive with local supplies and goodness to make up the menu of your dreams.
What’s On This November –
If you’re looking to experience something extraordinary, The Eden Project is opening its doors during the night of the 16th November. To raise money for homeless shelters, the Amber Foundation and St Petrocs, visitors have the opportunity to camp out within the famous biomes. Although a magical experience, prepare to wrap up warm as Cornwall can get cold in November!
Get ready for the festive season and pull on your Santa hat, as Christmas hits Truro from the 29th November. With dozens of stalls, selling Christmas goodies, food, drinks, inspiring art and endless gift ideas, this huge market is a big success each year. The 2023 market is planning to be even bigger and better than previous years, so this is not one to miss.
Tunnel Of Lights at The Shipwreck Treasure Museum
Another one for the Christmas lovers. The Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Charlestown is hosting an elegant display of festive lights, to introduce the season of merriment. Overflowing with giant baubles, sparkling presents and snowy forests, this trail of festivity commences on the 25th November. Known to be the UK’s longest tunnel of indoor festive lights, this shimmering display is a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Don’t let the incoming winter blues get you down, as Cornwall awaits your visit, with open arms. Check out some of our Gems with last-minute availability, for your perfect November escape.