Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Altarnun to sparkle this Christmas

There are few more delightful spots in Cornwall than the river in Altarnun with its 15th century Packhorse Bridge and backdrop of the majestic St Nonna’s Church, known as the Cathedral of The Moors.

In early December each year, a dedicated team of volunteers install a display that turns the riverbank and its trees and shrubs into a wonderland of Christmas lights.

The display is enjoyed by young and old from near and far and seen by many as the start of Christmas in the village. This year the big switch on is scheduled for 7pm on Saturday 6th December and the lights will stay on until Monday 5th January, from dusk until 11pm daily.

Villagers and people from surrounding areas are invited to come along and enjoy the lights switch-on, or simply pop into the village one evening to enjoy the spectacle.

The lights are funded each year by residents, the Parish Council, local clubs and organisations including the union and management at Davidstow Creamery. With so much local support including hot drinks and food for the volunteers who install the lights and the use of a cherry picker provided by Trenarrett Tree Services, Altarnun’s Christmas lights are a real community effort.