top of page
Writer's pictureMartha Edwards

Presents from Cornwall: Festive Giving

There’s something truly special about a Cornish Christmas. The presents from Cornwall, the traditions, the festive beauty of the season, and the love shared among family and friends create memories to cherish forever. Cornwall comes alive with lights, stories, and celebrations, offering a unique way to add magic to your holiday season.


Our carefully chosen collection of jewellery brings these traditions to life. Whether you’re looking for sterling silver treasures or meaningful designs inspired by the heritage of Cornwall, our products make thoughtful gifts for anyone excited to celebrate the holidays. Explore our range and find the perfect gift to share with someone special this Christmas.

presents from Cornwall

Cornish Gifts: Presents from Cornwall Inspired by Local Traditions

The rich history and unique customs of Cornwall create a festive season full of warmth and wonder. These cherished traditions inspire our collection, making it easy to discover gifts that are both beautiful and meaningful. From jewellery inspired by local myths to designs that add a touch of elegance to family celebrations, each product is chosen to reflect the spirit of Cornish life.


1. Mousehole Christmas Lights: A Story of Hope and Festive Magic

presents from Cornwall

The Mousehole Christmas lights are one of Cornwall ’s most enchanting traditions, lighting up the harbour with festive displays that reflect off the sea. This event is deeply connected to the tale of Tom Bawcock’s Eve and the courage that defines this small Cornish village.


According to the story, during a bitter winter famine, Tom Bawcock, a fisherman from Mousehole, braved treacherous seas to bring fish back to the starving village. On the night of his daring voyage, villagers each placed a candle in their windows to guide Tom and his boat safely home. His success was celebrated with a feast featuring the iconic Stargazy Pie, its fish heads poking through the crust to symbolize the bounty of his catch.


The tradition of lighting candles in windows inspired the creation of the now-famous Mousehole Christmas lights, which fill the village with warmth, joy, and a reminder of the community’s resilience. Today, these lights bring happy families together, as locals and visitors alike come to admire the glowing boats, cottages, and festive displays.


This story of courage, light, and togetherness continues to live on, making the Mousehole Christmas lights a beacon of hope and celebration in Cornwall and across the world. Whether you’re exploring the festive harbour or sharing the tale with family, this tradition captures the heart of Cornwall ’s spirit.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • Buy twinkling gold and silver designs which reflect the glow of the Mousehole lights and the warmth of candlelight.

  • Wave and star motifs make meaningful gifts, symbolizing the courage of Tom Bawcock and the enduring beauty of living by the sea.


2. Christmas Day Sea Swims: A Festive Tradition in Cornwall

presents from Cornwall

For many, Christmas in Cornwall begins with an exhilarating sea swim. Our local Xmas swim is held on Christmas morning in Sennen Cove, where locals and visitors alike brave the chilly waters. These swims are a joyful, heartwarming celebration of community, adding excitement to the festive season.


Jewellery Inspiration


3. Winter Solstice Celebrations: Montol Festival and Stone Circles

presents from Cornwall

The winter solstice is a time of renewal, marking the return of light after the darkest days of the year. In Penzance, the Montol Festival revives ancient Cornish customs with masked processions, fire-lit ceremonies, and music. It’s a magical event steeped in tradition, reflecting Cornwall’s deep connection to the cycles of nature.


Meanwhile, ancient stone circles like Boscawen-Un host peaceful gatherings, where people come together to celebrate the solstice and share in the warmth of a happy community. These events symbolize unity, hope, and the enduring beauty of Cornish heritage.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • Sun and fire motifs in our collection celebrate renewal, making them meaningful gifts for the season.

  • Buy designs featuring warm yellow gemstones, such as citrine or amber, which add a festive glow to any celebration.


4. St Ives: Santa Arrives by Boat

presents from Cornwall

Early in December, St Ives Harbour becomes the backdrop for a magical moment when Santa arrives not by sleigh, but by boat. This lovely tradition draws families and children to watch as the man in red docks and spreads festive cheer.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • Add nautical designs to your gifting list, such as anchors or boats, which make thoughtful gifts for coastal enthusiasts.

  • Silver pieces with sparkling details mirror the excitement of St Ives' harbour lights.


5. Guise Dancing: Festive Elegance with a Celtic Twist

This ancient Celtic tradition, celebrated especially in Penzance, Cornwall, sees locals don elaborate costumes adorned with holly and ivy. The event brings music, joy, and community spirit to Cornwall during the holidays.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • Holly and ivy-themed pieces in our collection celebrating pagan Christmas traditions.

  • Green gemstones like green amethyst or peridot add a festive touch to any outfit, perfect for Christmas parties or as a unique gift.


6. St Ives: New Year’s Fancy Dress and Fireworks

presents from Cornwall

Cornwall’s festive magic continues into the New Year, with St Ives hosting a spectacular fancy-dress celebration and fireworks display. Locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the New Year, dressed in creative costumes and welcoming the year ahead with joy and excitement.


Jewellery Inspiration

Celebrate the joy of St Ives’ New Year festivities with jewellery that embodies the excitement and happy moments of this unique Cornish tradition.

  • Statement pieces with shimmering gemstones are perfect for celebrating the New Year.

  • Buy heart-shaped products symbolising romance and connection as a thoughtful way to ring in a fresh start.

  • A New years Proposal? for a show-stopping New Year’s Eve engagement, choose a stunning ring in yellow or white gold with diamonds or sapphires—designed to make the moment unforgettable.


Cornish Christmas Markets: A Treasure Trove of Handcrafted Gifts

presents from cornwall

Throughout December, Cornwall’s towns and villages come alive with Christmas markets, from the bustling Truro Christmas Market to the charming Fowey Market. These vibrant events showcase local artistry, offering happy visitors the chance to discover hand made products like jewellery, ceramics, and textiles. Perfect for finding unique and meaningful gifts, these markets embody Cornwall’s creative spirit.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • Buy Hand crafted silver, pewter and tin products which show the artisanal quality of Cornwall’s local craftsmanship.

  • Nature-inspired motifs, such as ivy or robins, celebrate the festive season with elegance.


Mummers’ Plays: Theatrical Celebrations of Community

Cornwall’s traditional Mummers’ Plays feature folk performances in towns across Cornwall during the festive season. These lively productions bring characters like St. George and the Turkish Knight to life, blending humour, drama, and music. The plays are a joyful way to celebrate Cornwall’s storytelling heritage.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • Buy designs inspired by medieval motifs or storytelling symbols, such as scrolls or stars, reflect the plays’ historic charm.

  • Bold statement pieces capture the dramatic flair of these theatrical traditions.


Traditional Cornish Carols

presents from cornwall

Cornwall has a unique collection of traditional carols, sung in homes, churches, and at public gatherings during the Christmas season. Accompanied by brass bands, these carols create a happy and festive atmosphere.


Jewellery Inspiration

  • St Piran’s Flag Designs: Black and white flag motifs celebrate Cornish identity, perfect as pendants or cufflinks for those who treasure their roots.

  • Cornish Shield Jewellery: Shields inspired by Cornwall’s historic coat of arms offer a bold and meaningful way to connect with the region’s heritage.


Jewellery Gifts to Celebrate Family and Togetherness

Cornwall’s traditions are all about celebrating love, connection, and the joy of being home with family. Our jewellery collection reflects this spirit, making it easy to discover the perfect present for your loved ones. Choose from sterling silver designs inspired by Cornwall’s beauty or gold pieces that add elegance to the season.


Each piece is carefully crafted to bring joy and meaning to your celebrations. Whether you’re buying for someone special or treating yourself, these products are a wonderful addition to the magic of Christmas, inspired by the festive spirit of Cornwall.


Cornish Gifts for Everyone

As you choose your gifts this Christmas, celebrate the spirit of Cornwall. Whether it’s a piece inspired by the sea, the stars, or Cornwall’s natural landscape, every item in our collection is chosen to help you share the joy of Christmas with those you love.

presents from Cornwall

0 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comentários


bottom of page