It just doesn’t feel like Christmas unless you have a trip planned to see the Christmas lights display in the pretty fishing village of Mousehole. In 2023, the display will be following in the footsteps of previous years and easing into the festive season with a staggered switch-on from Monday the 11th of December, as opposed to a big event on one evening. All the lights should be on and lighting up the harbour by mid-December, which you can see live on our webcam!
The display has been produced every year since 1963 and now contains an estimated 7,000 bulbs. Not even storms can stop the lights from shining out, although they are dimmed for a short time on the 19th December each year to commemorate the anniversary of the Penlee Lifeboat Disaster.
Driving from Penzance, park in the large car park just before the entrance to the village and enjoy following the lanterns on the easy 10-minute walk. There is also a lovely, wheel-approved coastal walk from Marazion to Mousehole, allowing you to see some of West Cornwall's best Christmas light displays as you go.
The main display is in Mousehole Harbour, but you will see plenty of festivity on your way, as restaurants and pubs don their best Christmas garb to celebrate the lights and families wrap up against the Cornish weather.
The best way to enjoy the lights is of course after dark, wandering through the atmospheric narrow streets of Mousehole to spot the different arrangements, some of which have been used for decades. Our favourites are the Mousehole cat, which gives you a good excuse to reread the story when you get home, and we love the sea monster, although new designs are introduced every year so there's always room for a new favourite. A gentle stroll around town leads you to the doors of Mousehole's welcoming eateries, such as the Ship Inn or The Old Coastguard where you can warm through and grab a bite to eat.
December the 23rd is also a date to watch in Mousehole as the town celebrates Tom Bawcock’s Eve, an annual celebration of one of Cornwall's most beloved heroes and favourite tales.
Mousehole truly puts itself on the map at Christmas time with these events, and will provide some really wonderful memories for your family as you discover the hidden festive treats the village has to offer.
You can find out more about the event, and donate to support the lights on their website.
Excited to experience this beautiful harbourside village at Christmas? Explore our cosy Mousehole cottages and start planning your festive stay.