Cornwall is well known for its glorious beaches and stunning scenery, but this famous region is more than just a pretty face. Many of its towns and villages have an intriguing history with tales of smugglers, myths and legends.
Attractions are plentiful, including those with world-famous statuses, such as The Eden Project, the Minack Theatre and Tate St Ives. So whether you are looking for family fun, an activity holiday or a romantic break by the sea, Cornwall has plenty of attractions, adventures and, of course, Cornwall holiday cottages, to fill your days, come rain or shine.
Located in the far southwest of the UK, Cornwall's impressive landscape provides an ideal setting for enjoying a whole host of outdoor activities, from walking along the spectacular coastal paths to the thrill of kite surfing along the sands.
With over four hundred miles of stunning coastline, there are water sports to enjoy and beautiful beaches blessed with clear waters for lazy holidays. Read more
Chy Morvoren is a modern holiday cottage in the peaceful Pendra Loweth Holiday Village on the outskirts of Falmouth and within easy reach of two beaches, each with parking, cafe, restaurant and toilet facilities. The three-bedroom holiday home sleeps six people with a layout that works well for large or extended families. Pendra Loweth has extensive gardens and whilst having a relaxing atmosphere includes amenities such as an all-weather tennis court, bar and cafe overlooking the adventure playground, a soft play area and a gym with a plunge pool. The location is ideal for exploring the Lizard Peninsula and is convenient for St Ives, Penzance and Lands End. Unfortunately the village restrictions do not allow commercial vehicles with sign writing onto the site. Pendra Loweth is licensed for holidays only, workers are not permitted.
A picturesque, well maintained family owned property, very private and sitting above the peaceful shores of the Mawgan Creek in an acre of grounds with a stunning exclusive view. An idyllic choice for a couple or a family accommodating up to four adults with two children. Direct water frontage for those who wish to explore the peaceful creeks in our rowing dinghy 'Peggy'. With wonderful walks, many local beaches and attractions too. Village shop, pub with restaurant, pasty shop within walking distance. A peaceful retreat where guests return frequently. We can offer you a flexible arrival and departure day - just ask!
Situated on the outskirts of the popular coastal town of Fowey, this delightful cottage provides a great base for a relaxing summer holiday by the sea or a cosy winter break where you can enjoy invigorating coastal walks and evenings by the fire. Lovely beaches, an abundance of attractions and plenty of places in Fowey for a meal out - all the right ingredients for a holiday! *Follow us on Instagram - bryonycottage.fowey*
Pa’s Cottage is a 400-year-old thatched holiday cottage in Crackington Haven sleeping eight guests, steps from the beach on Cornwall’s dramatic north coast. This self-catering accommodation combines original character beams and rafters with contemporary comforts, featuring a wood-burner, south-facing garden with summerhouse, and parking for three cars. Located in the heart of the village with The Coombe Barton Inn and two beach cafés within walking distance, this dog-friendly group holiday home welcomes up to two pets. This holiday rental in Crackington Haven provides WiFi, a travel cot and a highchair, and direct beach access, making it a brilliant base for families and friends exploring North Cornwall’s coastline.
Fancy staying in a thatched holiday cottage by the coast? Ship Inn Farmhouse is a gorgeous Grade II listed property in Crantock, less than 500 metres from the sand, cafes and a pub serving food if you don't feel like using the self-catering facilities. It sleeps eight people in four bedrooms and is great for families and friends. Guests love the original features updated with modern comforts and its proximity to the beach. Newquay is only two miles from the door, and you're within walking distance of the South West Coast Path.
Offering a lovely mix of modern conveniences with traditional charm, this welcoming dog-friendly cottage provides a good central base for exploring Cornwall's many attractions. Sitting in a rural position on the edge of Bodmin Moor amongst a small farming community close to St Cleer, the cottage has easy access to both the moor and the north and south coasts.
A delightful dog friendly holiday cottage that sits in a small farming community in Cornwall close to St Cleer with easy access to Bodmin moor and coast. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, this central location provides a good base for visiting Cornwall's many attractions.
On the North Cornish coastline, this spacious holiday home is located apx 200 yards from the coastal path, the picturesque harbour and the village of Boscastle with its pubs, shops and tea rooms. A beautiful part of North Cornwall for a self-catering holiday by the sea with an abundance of attractions, lovely beaches and fabulous walking. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
The Old Dairy is located on the outskirts of the beautiful fishing village of Boscastle on Cornwall's North Coast. With the coastal path just a mile away and excellent village amenities (including a choice of places to eat) just a pleasant stroll through the famous Valency Valley (a mile and a half) this is a perfect holiday destination for walkers and beach lovers. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
On Cornwall's stunning north coast, this welcoming holiday home enjoys a perfect position for walkers on the South West Coastal Path and strollable distance to the picturesque harbour and quaint village of Boscastle with its pubs, shops and tea rooms. A beautiful part of North Cornwall for a self-catering holiday by the sea. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
An impressive holiday home for large families in a prime position looking over Crooklets Beach in the popular seaside town of Bude, North Cornwall. Formerly a gentleman's residence dating back to Edwardian times, Pendragon is a great choice for a family holiday or some time away by the sea with friends with glorious beaches, great surfing and plenty of pubs and restaurants for a meal out. Pets welcome by arrangement.
Trewethern Barn has three bedrooms. A large King Size bedroom with far reaching views over the countryside, a generous and light twin bedroom (can be set up as a Superking) with French doors with step access to the garden and single bedroom.
A characterful old holiday cottage dating back four hundred years with an impressive large inglenook fireplace housing a log burning stove in the peaceful village of Cubert, North Cornwall. Walking distance of three beaches (Crantock, Polly Joke and Holywell Bay) and pubs/restaurants in the village for a meal out. Just four miles from Newquay and a great self-catering base for exploring Cornwall's many attractions or enjoying a lazy beach holiday. Tourist board rating: 3 Star
The FarmhouseSteeped in centuries of Cornish history, The Farmhouse is a beautifully restored traditional longhouse, now transformed into an impressive countryside retreat where original character meets relaxed modern luxury.Once a working Cornish longhouse, with livestock housed below to provide warmth to the farmers living above, the property has been thoughtfully reimagined for contemporary living while retaining the sense of history that makes it so special. Today, it offers wonderfully generous spaces designed for families and groups to come together, unwind and enjoy the very best of Cornwall.Set amid rolling countryside on a peaceful former farm, The Farmhouse feels wonderfully secluded, with far-reaching rural views and only a handful of neighbouring properties. Yet the coast is remarkably close. Watergate Bay, Porth and Whipsiderry Beach are all around a five-minute drive away, while Newquay and Cornwall Airport are also within easy reach.Outside, a large south-facing garden m
The Watch House is a luxury coastal home overlooking Marazion Bay and the iconic St Michael's Mount. Sleeping up to 8 guests across four en-suite bedrooms, it features spectacular sea views, a hot tub, games room, garden office, private terraces and beautifully landscaped gardens. Just a short stroll from the beach, cafés, restaurants and the causeway to St Michael's Mount, it offers the perfect blend of luxury, location and unforgettable coastal scenery.
Serena sleeps up to 6 guests across three beautifully appointed bedrooms. The spacious master suite occupies the upper floor and features a king-size bed, stunning sea views and a private Nordic sauna. On the lower level, there are two further bedrooms, including a king-size room with sea views and a twin bedroom, making the apartment ideal for couples, families and friends. The property benefits from three bathrooms, ensuring plenty of space and convenience for all guests throughout their stay.
Topaz sleeps up to 6 guests across two beautifully appointed bedrooms and a separate snug. Both bedrooms feature luxurious super king-size beds, with one bedroom offering the flexibility to be configured as twin beds if required. The snug includes a comfortable sofa bed, providing additional sleeping space for two guests. The apartment benefits from two stylish bathrooms, making it an ideal choice for couples, families and small groups seeking a relaxing coastal escape.
The Old Court House sleeps up to 8 guests across three bedrooms plus a sofa bed. The accommodation comprises one king-size bedroom, one double bedroom and one single bedroom with a pull-out trundle bed, with additional sleeping for two guests on the sofa bed. The cottage benefits from two bathrooms and offers flexible accommodation for families or small groups, just moments from the beach, harbour, shops and restaurants in the heart of St Mawes.
Ocean Skies sleeps up to 10 guests across four beautifully designed bedrooms and an additional snug with a luxury sofa bed. Three bedrooms feature king-size Ercol beds, while the fourth offers a zip-and-link bed that can be configured as either a super king or two singles. Two bedrooms enjoy private sea-view balconies, with a third benefiting from a Juliet balcony. The property offers three en-suite shower rooms, a family bathroom and an additional shower room, making it ideal for families and groups. The spacious open-plan living area, games room/snug, high-spec kitchen and large sea-view terraces provide plenty of room to relax, entertain and enjoy the spectacular coastal setting.
The Beach House comfortably sleeps up to 10 guests across four beautifully appointed bedrooms, all featuring king-size beds. One of the bedrooms can be configured as either a king or twin room, offering flexibility for families and groups. Two of the bedrooms enjoy stunning sea views and direct access to the terrace through large sliding doors, allowing guests to wake up to the sound of the waves and breathtaking coastal vistas. There is also a dedicated children's playroom with bunk beds, making it ideal for younger guests, as well as two travel cots available for families travelling with babies or toddlers. Three bedrooms benefit from en-suite facilities, complemented by an additional family bathroom.
Popular towns in and around Cornwall:
AlbastonBodminBodmin MoorBoscastleBudeCallingtonCamelfordCarbis BayCharlestownCommon MoorCoverackCrackington HavencrantockDaymer BayDelaboleEast LooeFalmouthFoweyGorran HavenGunnislakeHayleHelfordHelstonHolywell BayKingsandLamornaLands EndLanhydrockLauncestonLiskeardLizard peninsulaLooeLostwithielLuxulyanMarazionMawgan PorthMevagisseyMouseholeMullionMylorNewlynNewquayNr TregonyPadstowPenzancePerranporthPlymouthPolperroPolruanPolzeathPort IsaacPorthcothan BayPorthlevenPorthtowanPortreathPortscathoPrussia CoveRedruthRockRoseland PeninsulaSaint AgnesSaint AustellSaint Columb MajorSaltashSennenSt AgnesSt AustellSt IvesSt JustSt MabynSt MawesSt MawganSt MinverTavistockTintagelTorpointTregonyTrevoneTruroWadebridgeWinnards PerchSome local suggestions:
Dog friendly Cornwall cottagesLuxury Cornwall holiday cottagesLast minute Cornwall cottagesCornwall cottages with a hot tubRomantic Cornwall cottagesFamily friendly Cornwall cottagesCornwall cottages by the seaLarge cottages for groups in CornwallCottages in Cornwall with a swimming poolOr search further afield:
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Many of Cornwall's fascinating towns and quaint fishing villages are rich in history and date back hundreds of years. Their narrow cobbled winding streets and tiny alleyways are home to unique boutiques, craft shops and art galleries, providing visitors with plenty of shopping to do.
One of the most popular places to stay in Cornwall is Newquay, where visitors can find a laid-back atmosphere on the many sandy beaches and a lively vibe in the town during the evening. Newquay is also a surfers haven, as the rolling Atlantic swell creates some of the best waves in the UK. Many self-catering properties are made for surfers, with storage for boards and wetsuit cleaning facilities. If this is important to you, make sure you ask the owner what your Cornish cottage includes before you book!
If you seek less hustle and bustle and more of the great outdoors, perhaps Padstow is the place for you? The picture-perfect town offers some of the best food in Cornwall alongside a pretty harbour, perfect for taking a break to enjoy a Cornish Pasty. Pick one of the Cornish cottages within walking distance to the famous Rick Stein restaurant for a night to remember.
For those who want to be in a buzzing Cornish coastal town, St Ives won’t disappoint. The famous town has many excellent restaurants, bars, pubs and shops, so there is always something to do when visiting the area. In addition, many stunning holiday cottages line the coastline, providing spectacular views out to sea.
Anyone seeking a picturesque fishing village on Cornwall’s coast should go to Mousehole, where visitors can embrace its charming seaside town with its traditional cottages, an old-world atmosphere and rich history.
Before booking your holiday cottage in Cornwall, you can find all the information you need for your trip.
For more tips, check out our complete guide to South West England.
Cornwall's impressive beaches and rugged coastline are its main attractions. With sandy shores, large swells, crystal clear water, excellent rock pools and pretty coastal paths, the impressive southern county is complimented further by offering some of the best weather in the UK, with warm, sunny summers and milder than average winters.
The summer months attract plenty of visitors to the many Cornish coastal towns when the temperatures start to reach a pleasant 19°C. Surfers make their way to the beaches, boards under arms, ready to enjoy the warmer sea and impressive waves. Holiday cottages with hot tubs and swimming pools are particularly popular in summer.
In the spring, the Cornish landscape bursts into life with colourful daffodils popping up all over the region and bright bluebells littering the coastal paths. A visit in autumn changes the scenery to a golden hue as the leaves start to fall and scatter across the county, and the waves start to crash into the shore with more ferocity as the wilder weather sweeps the sea.
Winter in Cornwall is often warmer than the northern regions in the UK but can become wet and wilder compared to the calmer summer months. However, tranquillity settles over the county in winter as the beaches are quiet and the coastal paths free from the usual tourists, creating a serene atmosphere for all who visit at this time. Plus, Cornwall holiday cottages come in to their own at this time of year, as you can make the most of log burners and cosy blankets.
Cornwall is one of the country's best places for a seaside getaway and has excellent summer weather, attracting outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy great coastal walks, climbing, surfing, bodyboarding, and beach lounging.
The region also has plenty of options for family days out (including many things to do on a rainy day).
Cornwall is excellent for those seeking relaxation whilst indulging in great food and quiet time. Its beautiful serene landscape provides the perfect setting for wildlife watching, painting, photography and lazy beach days.
Whether you have a night out in lively Newquay or enjoy a day swimming in the sea and building castles in the sand, our self-catering guide for South Cornwall offers plenty of options.
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance from the town of St Ives, so you know what to expect when choosing to get to the holiday cottages by car.
London: 305 miles
Birmingham: 267 miles
Glasgow: 553 miles
Liverpool: 362 miles
Bristol: 199 miles
Manchester: 350 miles
Leeds: 390 miles
Edinburgh: 556 miles
Newcastle: 479 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to Cornwall; with its excellent public transport, you can journey by train or plane from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on. This also gives you a great opportunity to pick up supplies and groceries before arriving at your self-catering accommodation.
Cornwall has a lively art scene thanks to its spectacular, dramatic landscape that has inspired many artists and provided the backdrop for many films and television programmes.
Cornwall is perfect for a cottage holiday or short break at any time of the year with a climate of its own. Winters are short, spring starts early, and even in the depths of winter, Cornwall is an ideal place to escape, with world-class restaurants, huge beaches, quiet roads and crisp, clean air.
There are many unique places to stay in Cornwall, all aiming to meet the varying needs of holidaymakers.
Bude is great for families with its dog-friendly beaches and Crooklets Beach, which displays a laid-back setting, perfect for the kids to play without the busy crowds. Falmouth is great for those seeking a trip to Cornwall full of history; the National Maritime Museum is excellent for experiencing the sea's influence in Falmouth. Finally, Newquay provides the perfect setting for all sea lovers, especially surfers; the impressive swells display some of the best surfing conditions in the UK.
With so many places and Cornwall holiday cottages to choose from, it is hard to narrow it down to the best in the region, as the beautiful county of Cornwall has something for everyone; you just need to pick the right place for you.
Cornwall’s extraordinary landscape, stunning beaches and lush countryside make it like nowhere else in the UK. Its excellent climate makes for comfortable days on the sandy shores, swimming, building castles or walking along the coastal paths, all whilst surrounded by stunning views out to sea.
Cornwall continues to increase in popularity, which has naturally increased the cost of holiday accommodation here as tourism continues to grow. However, places like Penzance will offer a more affordable trip to Cornwall for those on more of a budget.
It is worth bearing in mind that most people feel that the attractions, scenery, weather and multiple activities available in Cornwall make it worth the slightly higher price tag.
St Ives is renowned for being one of the prettiest towns in Cornwall, due to its charming and scenic setting that provides breathtaking coastal views and narrow winding streets filled with craft shops and great cafes.
Polperro is another of Cornwall’s pretty towns; the harbour sits surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants with steep steps that take you through the narrow streets, providing spectacular views of the coast.
There are many more beautiful towns to visit in Cornwall, all of which offer unique scenery. So whether you are looking for a vibrant town like Newquay or a foodie’s heaven like Padstow, you will find it all when exploring the region.
