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February is one of the quietest and most atmospheric months to visit Cornwall. While the days are still short and the weather can be unpredictable, this is a great time for peaceful coastal walks, roaring pub fires, dramatic storm watching and exploring Cornwall without the summer crowds and spring just around the corner. If you enjoy slower travel, wild landscapes, and great value accommodation, February can be a lovely time to plan a Cornwall break.

February is one of our favourite months in Cornwall. Winter is coming to an end and spring is officially signalled when six Champion Magnolia campbellii trees each reach at least 50 blooms. This moment marks the start of spring, an annual declaration made in partnership with The Great Gardens of Cornwall. Spring arrives here at least a month earlier than the rest of the UK. Hedgerows and coastal paths begin to fill with wildflowers and the days start to feel noticeably warmer.

How to Use This Guide

Use the contents table above to jump straight to the section you are most interested in. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Cornwall in February, including average weather, what to pack, the best things to do, where to stay, and helpful tips from locals who know the region well throughout the winter season.

Weather in Cornwall in February

February temperatures in Cornwall usually sit between 4 and 9 degrees. Frost is possible inland, but the coast stays slightly milder thanks to the Atlantic influence. Rainfall is common but tends to come in short spells, often followed by bright, clear breaks that make the cliffs and beaches glow.

Expect windy days, especially around exposed headlands. February is not a beach-swimming month, but it is perfect for coastal scenery. Days are gradually getting longer, with sunsets closer to 6pm by the end of the month.

Cornwall Weather in February	Summary
Average Temperature	7°C, highs of 9–10°C and lows of 3–4°C
Average Rainfall	70–100 mm across 12–15 days
Average Sea Temperature	8–9°C
Daylight Hours	Around 10 hours
Typical Conditions	Cool, fresh and changeable with early signs of spring

Is February a Good Time to Visit Cornwall?

February is ideal for travellers who prefer quiet trips, wide open beaches and cosy evenings. Some attractions close for winter maintenance, although many of Cornwall’s top sights stay open throughout the year. Hotel prices are far lower than in spring and summer, and availability is excellent even for last minute trips. The school half term can push prices up and bring a short spike in visitor numbers, however outside these dates you will find excellent value.

The atmosphere is peaceful, with empty coastal paths and very relaxed seaside towns. If you are happy to embrace winter/spring weather, February is a surprisingly rewarding month to explore.

Things to Do in Cornwall in February

There is plenty to enjoy in Cornwall during February, especially if you love outdoor landscapes, creative culture and warm places to unwind.

Explore Cornwall’s Coastal Paths

The South West Coast Path is spectacular in February, with crisp sea air and dramatic winter light. Popular sections include St Ives to Zennor, Porthcurno to Land’s End, Bedruthan Steps and the coastline around Tintagel. The paths are quiet at this time of year, giving you the freedom to enjoy long walks without the summer rush.

Visit Cornwall’s Winter Beaches

February brings wild seas, stormy skies and huge expanses of untouched sand. Fistral, Watergate Bay, Gwithian, Sennen and Perranporth are beautiful for photography and bracing walks. Dogs are usually allowed on most beaches in winter, making this a great time for pet friendly trips.

Warm Up in Cornwall’s Cafes and Pubs

This is one of the best months for slow, cosy Cornish days. Try seafood cafés in Padstow, small bakeries in St Ives, fireside pubs in Mousehole and independent spots in Falmouth. February is also a perfect time to enjoy Cornish cream teas without the queues.

Visit Tintagel Castle

Tintagel’s dramatic cliffs and castle ruins feel even more mystical in winter. February is much quieter, letting you explore the famous footbridge and coastline at a much slower pace. The views are especially atmospheric on windy days.

Wander Around St Ives

St Ives is peaceful in February, with quiet streets, easy parking and calm beaches. Most galleries remain open and the Tate St Ives is warm, spacious and perfect for a rainy day. This is also a great month to browse small craft shops and enjoy sunsets at Porthmeor Beach.

Enjoy an Indoor Spa Day

Many of Cornwall’s best spa hotels offer discounted winter packages. Relaxing with a sea view pool or sauna is perfect when the weather turns. Fistral Beach Hotel and the Scarlet Hotel remain popular choices for winter wellness trips.

Explore the Eden Project

The Eden Project is open year round. The tropical biomes are a welcome escape from February weather and make a full day out. Early February is noticeably quieter than half term.

Discover Falmouth

Falmouth’s maritime history, indie cafés and creative culture make it one of the best winter towns in Cornwall. Visit the National Maritime Museum, take a harbour walk or enjoy the food scene around the high street.

BOOK | Activities for you and your family in Cornwall

February Half Term in Cornwall

Half term brings a short burst of family travel, usually during the third week of February. Expect slightly busier days at the Eden Project, St Michael’s Mount, Newquay Zoo and the Cornish Seal Sanctuary. Many attractions run special family events, and restaurants extend opening hours. Outside of half term week, February remains very quiet.

Crowds and Prices in February

February is one of the least busy months of the year. Towns like Padstow, St Ives, Fowey and Porthleven feel peaceful, and even popular coastal car parks are easy to access. Prices for hotels and cottages are much lower than spring and summer, making it a great time to stay in typically expensive areas.

What to Pack for Cornwall in February

Pack warm layers, waterproof trousers, a good walking jacket and comfortable shoes with decent grip. Bring hats, gloves and thick socks for long coastal walks. For evenings, pack cosy jumpers and something smart casual for winter dining. A camera with weather protection is useful if you plan to photograph big winter waves.

Best Restaurants and Where to Eat

February is a cosy and atmospheric month for enjoying Cornwall’s food scene. Many restaurants stay open year round, serving hearty seasonal dishes, fresh seafood and winter warmers that suit the cooler weather. It is a quieter time to dine, so you can often enjoy popular spots without queues or long waits.

Some of our top picks for February dining include:

The Boat House Newquay | Laid back street food on the harbour, ideal for a relaxed lunch with sea views.
The Clover Club | We’d highly recommend trying the Cornish mussels, truffle parmesan fries, and the Cornish Smoke Squad spicy chicken wings.
The Ugly Butterfly 2.0 | Adam Handling’s standout fine dining experience, perfect for a special evening.
Una St Ives | Great for wood fired dishes and cosy winter dining close to Carbis Bay.

Read our where to eat in Newquay guide.

Where to Stay in February

February is one of the best months for value stays in Cornwall. Prices remain low, availability is excellent and many hotels offer winter or early spring packages. It is also a lovely time for romantic breaks, quiet coastal escapes and spa weekends.

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay

A stylish adults only hotel overlooking Fistral Beach. This is one of the best choices for storm watching, with ocean views from many rooms and a warm spa for winter afternoons. Prices are far lower in February, making it excellent value for a romantic break or relaxing weekend.

BOOK | FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL AND SPA

The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth

A luxury eco hotel perfect for wellness focused winter trips. Expect a cliff top spa, beautiful sea view lounges and calm spaces to unwind. February rates are softer than summer, and the quiet beach below the hotel is stunning for peaceful walks.

BOOK | THE SCARLET HOTEL

The Headland Hotel & Spa, Newquay

A luxury coastal hotel perched above Fistral Beach, offering spacious rooms, exceptional sea views and one of Cornwall’s best spa facilities. It is an ideal winter retreat with cosy lounges, fine dining and easy access to dramatic coastal walks around Newquay and Pentire Headland.

BOOK | THE HEADLAND HOTEL & SPA

Watergate Bay Hotel, Newquay

A stylish beachfront hotel set on one of Cornwall’s most dramatic north coast beaches. With modern rooms, sweeping sea views and excellent dining, it is perfect for a February escape. Guests can enjoy coastal walks, surf watching and relaxing in the hotel’s swim club, all just steps from the sand.

BOOK | WATERGATE BAY HOTEL

Read our best spa hotels in Cornwall guide.

Looking for something different? Then use our interactive map below to find your perfect place to stay.

February Events in Cornwall

Although February is quiet, there are still a few seasonal events worth checking out.

St Ives February events
Local galleries hold small exhibitions and creative workshops throughout the month.

Half term activities
Family friendly trails and themed events run at the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Tintagel Castle and National Trust properties.

Pasty Week
Some bakeries take part in a celebration of Cornwall’s most famous food towards the end of February.

Driving and Getting Around in February

Roads are very quiet throughout most of the month. Rural lanes can be muddy after heavy rain, so take care when driving in coastal or countryside areas. Public transport runs normally, although some coastal buses operate reduced winter timetables.

Best Places to Photograph in February

The low winter sun creates beautiful light across Cornwall. Top February photography spots include Godrevy Lighthouse, St Michael’s Mount, Porthcurno, Kynance Cove, Port Isaac and the cliffs around Tintagel. Stormy days at Porthleven can also produce dramatic wave photos, although always keep a safe distance from the sea.