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
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.
Make Port Ed View the location for your self-catering holiday in Newquay. This contemporary two-bedroom property is designed for family getaways, with views of Porth Headland and the vibrant centre of Newquay nearby. It’s a short walk to Porth Beach on a quiet residential street. The property features a private garden terrace with rattan seating, a spacious hallway, and an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area. The fully-equipped kitchen includes all essentials, and the living area has a sofa bed, Smart TV with Sky channels, and patio doors opening to the terrace. Enjoy Newquay’s stunning beaches, lively atmosphere, and local attractions like Newquay Zoo and the South West Coast Path.
Baywatch epitomises contemporary coastal elegance, offering a chic, two-bedroom apartment a mile from St Ives and just a few hundred meters from Carbis Bay's sandy beach. Ideal for couples and families of four, it features modern decor with sea views, off-street parking, and easy access to Carbis train station for direct travel to St Ives. It's fully equipped for self-catering and a ten-minute walk to La Casita, the Beach Club Restaurant, and Walter's on the Beach. Enjoy Carbis Bay's Blue Flag beach, perfect for swimming and water sports, and explore nearby St Ives with its galleries, shops, and stunning beaches.
2 Penmayne Cottage comfortably accommodates four guests in two bedrooms and is a short walk from one of Cornwall's finest beaches. Set away from passing traffic at the end of a private lane the property offers privacy and tranquillity so you can relax and unwind in peace. Nearby amenities include a fish and chip shop, a village store, and a locally famous bakery and deli. Ideal for couples, and the cottage's flexible bedding arrangement also makes it suitable for families and friends. Rock, known as the St Tropez of Cornwall, offers celebrity sightings amidst stunning coastal views from the beach and the South West Coast footpath.
Mews Cottage stands out as a top-tier holiday cottage. Set amidst 20 acres of captivating gardens of the Bonython Estate near Helston on the Lizard Peninsula, it offers an excellent self-catering experience. Loved by families and friends alike, the cottage boasts indoor and outdoor spaces and is perfect for all ages. Its well-equipped kitchen ensures convenience, but the Wheel Inn is just a short stroll away for those craving a break. The mild climate of South Cornwall is perfect for exotic plants, showcased beautifully in the Bonython Estate Gardens, a must-see attraction known as one of Cornwall's Great Gardens. With proximity to breathtaking beaches, fun attractions, and the stunning South West Coast Path, Mews Cottage provides an unforgettable base for exploring the wonders of the Lizard Peninsula. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Guests rave about all of the properties at Broomhill Manor, but House Cottage is a favourite. Originally the housekeeper's cottage, the family holiday home sleeps five people in two bedrooms and has an enclosed garden and views of the manor house. It is less than a mile from Bude with on-site facilities that include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, play areas for toddlers and older children, games rooms, a tennis court, riding stables, and 16 acres of grounds. You can walk to the pub, the beach and the South West Coast Path, or stay at home and enjoy lazy days while the kids play. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
No one can resist this incredible beachfront holiday home overlooking Porth Beach in Cornwall. With three bedrooms (all with stunning views), lots of living space and a waterfront terrace, it's perfect for your next self-catering holiday with family or friends. The owners have focused on every detail to provide you with luxurious accommodation in a stunning ideal location, steps from the sand with uninterrupted views over the water. There is secure storage for guests who want to bring SUPs, surfboards, kayaks and bikes, a private path to the beach, and excellent access to shops, cafes, the local pub, and the South West Coast Path. The Sail Loft sleeps six people in three ensuite bedrooms with accommodation over two levels.
Situated halfway between Bodmin and Liskeard, Rivermead’s pet-free holiday cottages to rent in Cornwall are the perfect base for couples’ breaks and relaxing family holidays. Set in 17 acres of beautiful grounds, Rivermead is a great place for spotting wildlife in Cornwall. Otter lodge provides the perfect place to switch off and recharge your batteries. Sip your morning coffee on the patio and watch the nuthatches and bluetits arriving for peanuts on the bird feeder. Sit quietly after sunset on your private lawn and wonder at the brightness of the stars where there’s no light pollution. Lie in a comfortable Hypnos bed listening to the sound of the river flowing a few feet away from the lodge and the owls heading out on patrol. The three-bedroom property sleeps six people, with guests having beautiful woodland views towards the River Fowey. There is onsite river fishing, a lake, nature walks, and lots of space to relax, picnic and barbecue on the 17-acre grounds. Bodmin Moor, the Eden Project and the beautiful beaches of the South Cornwall Coast are all within easy reach. Walk the South West Coast Path, cycle the Camel Trail, climb Bodmin Moor's granite tors, or discover old smuggler's haunts in Bodmin - there's something for everyone in all seasons.
Relax and unwind in Rivermead's beautiful holidays lodges to rent in Cornwall and in the tranquil surroundings of Rivermead Farm. We have seven fantastic self-catering holiday lodges and cottages to rent, all with their own parking and set in 17-acres of grounds where guests can enjoy onsite river fishing for trout and salmon, a spring-fed lake, nature walks, woodland, picnics and boules. Owl Lodge is very popular due to its valley views and its position only a short drive from the A38 halfway between Bodmin and Liskeard. It's within easy reach of the south coast resorts of Looe and Polperro, the wildness of Bodmin Moor and attractions such as the Eden Project and Bodmin Jail. This 4-Star lodge offers every comfort for up to six people in three bedrooms, with lots of space and a layout that suits families and groups of friends, or provides a luxurious stay for two. If you're visiting with more than six people, have a look at our other lodge and cottages to hire as well, as we love to host group stays.
The Hide is a wonderful escape for couples or individuals who want a private space where they can relax and unwind away from prying eyes. The charming studio holiday cottage feels incredibly spacious with a kingsize bed and full-sized appliances in the kitchen. It features an enclosed courtyard garden with an outdoor hot tub - bliss after a day spent walking along the coastal footpath, mountain biking around Bodmin or Dartmoor, or surfing at Newquay. Tucked away in the small village of Penhallow, within walking distance of the local pub, The Hide is only three miles from Perranporth and within easy reach of Truro, Land's End, Exmoor, Westward Ho! and many of Cornwall's other favourite attractions.
Guests have fantastic river views from this stylish Fowey holiday home on the first floor of a former bakery. The two-bedroom apartment sleeps four people and suits couples and families, with lots of space in a location within walking distance of cafes, shops, restaurants and pubs. The Old Bakery is a stunning location in any season, especially when you're practically in the front row for all of the goings-on. Fowey is great for sailing, boating and kayaking, walking through the peaceful estuary or along the South West Coast Path, and sunning yourself on beautiful beaches.
Wishing Well Cottage provides the perfect holiday retreat to relax and unwind. Nicely tucked away in a peaceful location, the cottage is sandwiched between Newquay and Truro with a wealth of attractions within easy reach. Sleeping four people, the holiday cottage is every bit as popular with couples as it is with friends or small families and is located in the Cornish village of Penhallow, within walking distance of the village pub and less than three miles from Perranporth beach. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
With views over spectacular countryside towards the Atlantic, and a huge private garden with a hot tub and a fire pit, The Folly is a favourite with families and friends. The three-bedroom cottage sleeps five people and is dog friendly. Bude, Widemouth Bay and the South West Coast Path are only a few miles from the house, and guests have access to three onsite coarse fishing ponds as well as woodland and meadows. It's idyllic in any season and a fantastic place for a relaxing holiday. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Settle back and relax in this lovely holiday cottage that is tucked away in a peaceful location between Newquay and Truro. The Forge comfortably sleeps up to four people in two ensuite bedrooms, with a layout that is ideal for couples, friends or small families. Accommodation is all on one level and is dog-friendly with practical hardwood floors and a private, fenced garden. The cottage is in Penhallow, within walking distance of the village pub and less than three miles from Perranporth beach. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
This comfortable holiday cottage is in Penhallow, less than three miles from the Perranporth and the beautiful beaches of the Cornish coast. It is perfect for couples or independent travelers with features that make it suitable for guests who use a wheelchair or who want to bring their dog on holiday. There are beautiful walks and bike rides from the door, and the cottage is close to fantastic attractions like Callestick Ice Cream Farm and Healey's Cornish Cyder Farm. The Stables is suitable for wheelchair users, and there is a variety of accessibility equipment available for guests use, if required. - Please book the equipment at the time of booking. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Recently constructed, The Coach House is the perfect blend of contemporary and classic, with traditional materials like oak used alongside high-end furnishings and building techniques. This high-quality holiday home is ideal for couples and families as there is easily space to sleep up to four people in two lovely bedrooms. It sits on a private estate in the hamlet of Penhallow, just a few miles from Perranporth Beach and close to Newquay. The owners have paid close attention to the needs of wheelchair users to ensure the house is comfortable and welcoming for all its guests. Tourist board rating: 5 Star
Six holiday cottages ideally placed on a peaceful farm close to Boscastle providing the perfect base for exploring the North Coast of Cornwall along with its beaches and many attractions. Lovely countryside and coastal walks and a great choice for a family holiday. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Sitting close to Boscastle on a farm just inland of the glorious North Coast, this comfy cottage provides a welcoming retreat for families (and couples) who want to discover this beautiful part of Cornwall. A plethora of attractions for day trips out, fabulous beaches for lazing and surfing and wonderful coastal and countryside walks. Enjoy a taste of farm life! Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Beautifully presented, East Park offers a warm welcome to families and friends and a taste of country life, close to the beautiful Cornish seaside village of Bascastle. Dog-friendly and great for those who enjoy walking, cycling, surfing, exploring or simply relaxing on one of the areas many gorgeous beaches. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Located slightly inland on a peaceful farm, this welcoming holiday cottage is close to the glorious beaches of the North Coast of Cornwall and a short distance from picturesque Boscastle. Perfect for families and couples who enjoy walking or want to discover the beauty and many attractions of Cornwall. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Popular towns in and around Cornwall:
AlbastonBodminBodmin MoorBoscastleBudeCallingtonCamelfordCarbis BayCharlestownCommon MoorCoverackCrackington HavenDelaboleEast LooeFalmouthFoweyGunnislakeHayleHelfordHelstonHolywell BayKingsandLamornaLands EndLanhydrockLauncestonLiskeardLizard peninsulaLooeLostwithielLuxulyanMarazionMawgan PorthMevagisseyMouseholeMullionMylorNewlynNewquayNr TregonyPadstowPenzancePerranporthPlymouthPolperroPolruanPolzeathPort IsaacPorthcothan BayPorthlevenPorthtowanPortreathPortscathoRedruthRockRoseland PeninsulaSaint AgnesSaint AustellSaint Columb MajorSaltashSennenSt AgnesSt AustellSt IvesSt 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.
