Secret Season: Carlyon Bay
Carlyon Bay is known for its vibrant summer atmosphere, from jet skis, pop-up food stalls, live music and open air theatre shows. However, in the cooler months, this coastline spot shouldn’t be overlooked. Situated on a rugged stretch of south Cornish coast rich in mining heritage, it’s the perfect base for exploring nearby cultural attractions.
The historic harbour town of Charlestown is just a 20-minute walk (or a 4-minute drive) away. It’s also just an 8-minute drive to the Eden Project and 18 minutes from the Lost Gardens of Heligan. Back in the bay, play the iconic Carlyon Bay golf course, walk the dog past Stack Rock (as Carlyon Bay is dog friendly out of season) and tuck into afternoon tea at the Carlyon Bay Hotel.
Come with us as we explore the secrets in and around Carlyon Bay during the cooler, quieter season…
Discover
- Golf, dog walks and afternoon tea at Carlyon Bay
- Charlestown shops, restaurants and festive activities
- The Eden Project and its seasonal events
Carlyon Bay
On your doorstep, discover coastal walks and fresh sea air. Although the beach is quiet in the cooler months, it’s dog friendly, meaning you’ll have plenty of space for your four legged friend to run free. Head to Carlyon Bay Hotel where you can play golf on the rolling fairways and dine in the relaxed, sea view Terrace Lounge.
Charlestown
Once a working port for China clay exports, Charlestown is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famously a filming location for BBC’s Poldark. During the quieter months, you can take your time to admire the moored tall ships in the harbour, wander the art galleries and antique shops, and sample the vibrant food on offer.
Things to do
This winter, the museum is home to the Tunnel of Lights experience, where you can wander underground tunnels lit with glittering rows of lights. Discover a miniature mouse world, meet the snowmen and penguins as they party in the hidden tiki bar, and dance in the snow on a boat overlooking the harbour. Sadly, this is the final year of the event as the museum is passed to new owners, but we look forward to seeing what the future holds for the space.
Historic harbour
The harbour is a well-preserved example of Cornwall’s maritime heritage, with incredible tall ships moored in the water.
Shopping
Located in Charlestown’s old chapel, browse stylish homeware and gifts to the backdrop of the original organ pipes.
Discover a collection of independent businesses and makers, including the Sail Loft Emporium for antiques, The Craft Kiln and Cscape Art.
Pick up unique jewellery and keepsakes.
Food and drink
Lunch
Grab a tasty brunch and the best coffee in Charlestown.
Cosy up with a hot chocolate or winter ice cream in the al-fresco booths.
A recently renovated pub with sea views, where you can feast on a pub lunch.
Dinner
For dinner, head to The Longstore, Springtide, Rebellion Roast House & Cocktail Bar, or Harbour Beer House.
The Eden Project
Eight minutes from Carlyon Bay, the Eden Project is a must-see all year round, but particularly in Secret Season, where the annual Christmas light displays fill the biomes with kaleidoscopic colours and orchestral sounds. See rainbow colours and jellyfish-inspired installations in the Rainforest Biome or admire the reflections cast by the huge disco ball in the Mediterranean biome.
Other seasonal features include ice skating, which runs until 23 February, a festive fairground, craft and games tent, and the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Nearby you’ll discover The Lost Gardens of Heligan, which also comes to life in winter with the annual Heligan Night Garden. Follow the magical garden trail through woodlands illuminated with lanterns and light displays. Wrap up warm and be mesmerised by glowing installations, meet the donkeys and goats, toast marshmallows on the fire and much more.
Stay for two free nights
Spend longer by the sea with our two free nights offer. From November to the Easter holidays (excluding school holidays), stay three or five nights and enjoy two extra nights free in selected retreats.
Take the time to experience Carlyon Bay during Secret Season and see Cornwall from a different perspective.
