Mousehole Harbour Lights

Switched on every December since 1963, the Mousehole Harbour Lights are a yearly tradition in this small fishing village on the coast of Cornwall.

The first displays were put up by local artist Joan Gillchrest and the custom grew organically from there, with other townspeople adding more and more lights throughout the years. The lights are still put up entirely by locals and are strung throughout the town and along the harbour.

In addition to traditional Christmas lights in shapes like Santa and snowflakes, lights are shaped in local objects like fish pie, ships, and even an octopus. The display is illuminated by over 7,000 bulbs! The lighting has become a beloved local tradition and the atmosphere is completed by locals selling Christmas ware, mulled wine, and fish and chips.