Best Christmas Tree Walks in Cornwall

As Cornwall heads into the Christmas season, families and visitors are starting to plan festive days outdoors, including the traditional Boxing Day walk. While a white Christmas may be unlikely, Cornwall’s coniferous forests can still deliver a wintry feel, with evergreen trees creating a setting that would not look out of place in Lapland.

Cornwall static caravans sales provider Away Resorts has shared its pick of the five best woodland walks in Cornwall to enjoy festive forest scenery. The routes highlight areas lined with fir trees, spruces, pines and other conifers, offering a seasonal backdrop for winter walks.

Davidstow Woods

Located just north of Bodmin Moor, Davidstow Woods offers a distinctly festive atmosphere thanks to its stretches of evergreen conifers. Walkers can expect winding woodland tracks, peaceful clearings and pine needles underfoot. Fir and spruce trees line the route, creating a natural winter setting. There are no formal parking facilities, but ample roadside parking is available nearby.

Halvana Plantation

Halvana Plantation provides a sheltered woodland escape where conifer plantations line the paths. Rows of pines and larches give the walk a wintry feel, standing in contrast to the surrounding open moorland. Visitors may also spot some of the wild Bodmin Moor ponies that roam the area. Parking can be found near the access gates to the woodland.

Cardinham Woods

Cardinham Woods is known for its towering Douglas firs and spruce trees, which feel particularly atmospheric over the festive period. Winding trails weave between some of Cornwall’s tallest trees, following a scenic stream just 10 minutes outside Bodmin. The woodland also offers viewpoints, wildlife, and glimpses of Cornish history, including the remains of a former lead mine and an ancient clapper bridge.

Ethy Wood

Ethy Wood offers a quieter woodland stroll, with mature conifers mixed among broadleaf trees. In winter, the evergreens add a festive touch to the landscape. Walkers can expect shaded glades, peaceful paths and views towards the nearby estuary. There is no formal parking, but the wood can be reached on foot from the hamlet of St Winnow or the village of Lerryn.

Herodsfoot Forest

Once a mining valley, Herodsfoot Forest has been reclaimed by nature and now features extensive conifer plantations. Trails pass through rows of pine and spruce, with occasional breaks revealing views of the surrounding hills. It is well suited to those looking for a peaceful festive walk away from busier sites and can be accessed on foot from the village of Herodsfoot.

Kate Watts, spokesperson for Away Resorts, said:
“Cornwall is magical at this time of year, and its conifer-lined woodland walks really capture the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful festive escape or a brisk frosty hike, these forests offer a beautiful backdrop for visitors to Cornwall to enjoy nature at Christmastime, while exploring the quieter side of Cornwall.”