There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about spending Christmas in a cottage. Maybe it’s the slower pace, the cosy evenings, or the sense of togetherness that comes from being tucked away in nature. At Kilminorth, Christmas week has become one of the loveliest times of the year – a chance for families to press pause, gather in their own private space, and create memories that feel a little more magical simply because of where they’re made.

If you’ve ever wondered what a family Christmas looks like at Kilminorth, here’s everything you can expect.

Your own Christmas tree – and the fun of decorating it together

One of the most special things about staying at Kilminorth during Christmas week is the option to have your very own Christmas tree inside your cottage. We’ll supply the baubles and you just make it your own. Children absolutely love this part, unpacking baubles, placing the star on top, and making the cottage feel like “theirs” for the week.

A Christmas hamper worth waking up for

Our Christmas hampers are one of the most loved add-ons during Christmas week, and for good reason. Filled with Cornish treats, festive flavours and locally sourced goodies, they instantly elevate Christmas morning. Families love opening them together, discovering what’s inside, and nibbling on everything across the course of the day. It turns Christmas breakfast into a slow, shared moment, and gives your holiday a sense of indulgence without the usual rush.

A food shop delivered to your cottage door

Christmas food shopping can feel overwhelming, especially in the days leading up to it. One of the joys of Christmas at Kilminorth is that you don’t have to navigate it all yourself. You can arrange for a supermarket delivery directly to your cottage, meaning your festive feast arrives without you ever needing to face the crowds.

It’s one of the most simple but impactful comforts: no queues, no chaos, no forgotten ingredients. Just everything you need right at your door. Many families time their delivery for the afternoon of arrival, unpacking into a warm cottage while the kids explore their temporary home.

Space to celebrate, space to unwind

Each family uses their cottage differently, and that’s one of the wonderful things about Christmas week. Some spend the entire day in pyjamas, playing games, nibbling snacks and watching Christmas films. Others head out exploring, taking long walks through the woodland or visiting nearby beaches for a festive “blow away the cobwebs” morning.

Cottages with hot tubs become a favourite spot for both adults and children. especially under clear winter evenings. There’s something very wholesome about hopping into warm water while the air is crisp and still. And because each cottage has plenty of space, everyone can find their own corner when they need a moment of quiet – essential during family gatherings!

Woodland walks that feel like childhood

There’s something about winter woodland walks that brings out the inner child in everyone. Families wrap up warm, grab the dog, and head into the trees. Children love splashing in puddles, collecting leaves, spotting robins, and peering into the moss for hidden “fairy doors.” Dogs run ahead with tails wagging, delighted by the scents and sounds. Parents get a moment to breathe, walking at a slower pace than usual, enjoying the chance to be present instead of rushing around.

On crisp mornings, the woodland glitters with frost. On rainy days, the canopy provides shelter and the sound of rain becomes peaceful rather than inconvenient. Either way, it’s beautiful.

Quiet beaches and festive Cornish charm

Nearby towns like Looe and Polperro come alive with decorations and twinkling lights, but without the summer crowds. Families often take a trip into town to explore the harbour, indulge in a hot chocolate, or pick up those final last-minute treats. And the beaches? Absolute heaven at Christmas. Empty, windswept, and dramatic – the perfect backdrop for family photos, dog adventures, or simply breathing in the sea air before heading back to your cosy cottage.

Evening magic inside the cottage

Christmas evenings at Kilminorth feel different. They’re calmer, somehow. You can cook together in your fully equipped kitchen, set out a beautiful table, and enjoy a slow dinner without rushing to fit everything in.

Children open “just one more present.” Adults pour another drink. Someone puts on music. Someone else sneaks another mince pie. And because you’re away from home, you’re free of the usual responsibilities – the tidying, the scheduling, the hosting. Instead, you get to simply be together.

Families often tell us that this is their favourite part: the quiet evenings, the laughter, the closeness, the sense of ease that’s hard to find anywhere else.

A Christmas the children will remember

Children remember moments, not things.

They remember:

• Waking up in a cottage that feels like a holiday and a home in one
• Opening presents under a tree they decorated themselves
• Walking through the woodland with the dog leading the way
• Jumping into a hot tub even though it was cold outside
• Running through the meadows after Christmas lunch
• Cosy movie nights all snuggled together

These are the Christmas memories that stay with them long after the toys are forgotten.

Considering a Christmas at Kilminorth?

Christmas week is one of the most special times to stay with us – peaceful, cosy and full of heartwarming moments. If you’d like your family to experience this kind of Christmas, you can browse our availability here or contact our team if you’d like help choosing the best cottage. Whether you come for the quiet, the togetherness, the tree, the dogs, or the hot tub – we’d love to be part of your family traditions.