Mousehole (pronounced “Mowzle”) has draped its harbour walls in Christmas lights every year since 1963. Over 60 illuminated figures and scenes stretch across the harbour, visible from around 17:00 to 23:00 nightly from mid-December to early January. Free to visit.
What to See
The lights are arranged in themed scenes across the harbour walls and buildings. Designs change year to year but always feature nautical and Cornish themes - fishing boats, sea creatures, the village itself. The reflection on the harbour water doubles the effect. The switch-on night is the busiest, but any clear evening works.
The lights are dimmed on 19 December each year to mark the anniversary of the Penlee lifeboat disaster of 1981, when the Solomon Browne lifeboat was lost with all eight crew while attempting to rescue the coaster Union Star.
Tom Bawcock’s Eve - 23 December
On 23 December, the village celebrates Tom Bawcock’s Eve with a lantern procession, carol singing, and stargazy pie at The Ship Inn. The legend says Tom Bawcock braved a winter storm to catch enough fish to feed the starving village. Stargazy pie has fish heads poking through the pastry crust. It’s an acquired taste, but the atmosphere in the pub is worth the trip.
Getting There
Mousehole is three miles south of Penzance on a narrow coastal road. Parking is very limited in the village - the small car park fills quickly on busy evenings. Penzance has larger car parks; walk or taxi the last stretch. The 6/6A bus runs from Penzance.