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
The Farmhouse is a welcoming property in a fantastic location. The traditional home sits peacefully on Goongillings Farm on the Lizard Peninsula, within walking distance of the Helford River and a private jetty where they can use one of the owner's sailing dinghies or rowboats. There are miles of beautiful footpaths and cycling routes leading from the door, and stunning Cornish beaches within a short drive. Falmouth and Truro are within easy reach, while the village of Constantine and the Trengilly Wartha Inn are within walking distance. There is space for up to eight people to sleep in four bedrooms to make it ideal for families and friends, while the flexible layout means it is also suitable for couples who enjoy having the spacious living areas and gardens to themselves.
The Barn occupies a stunning location near the beautiful Helford River in Cornwall. Sleeping up to eight people, it is perfect for families and friends who want to enjoy the beaches, towns and countryside without being tied down to just one of them. The entire Lizard Peninsula is spread out before you, with miles of beautiful places to walk, cycle, kayak and swim. Falmouth and Truro are both only a short drive away, while the friendly village of Constantine is around a 10-minute walk, and the excellent Trengilly Wartha Inn is just a two-minute walk from the property.
The sunny Lizard Peninsula is beautiful in every season, and Ben’s Cottage is a magical place from which to enjoy it. As one of four holiday rentals on Goongillings Farm, it sits on 150 private acres with direct access to the Helford River. You’re within easy reach of Truro and Falmouth and within walking distance of two pubs, cafe and village shop. The single-storey self-catering cottage has a small patio garden and sleeps four people in two bedrooms, suiting couples and families.
The Flowerhouse is as attractive as its name and sits in a beautiful position close to Helford River in Cornwall. A popular choice with families, friends and also couples, this welcoming cosy cottage is the perfect choice for those who want to explore the picturesque Lizard Peninsula with its gorgeous beaches, wildlife, water sports, towns, seaside villages and rolling countryside. Falmouth and Truro are both within easy driving distance, the Cornish village of Constantine is 10 minutes walk and The Trengilly Wartha Inn is even less and a mere 2 minutes.
An impressive English oak framed holiday lodge with a riverside garden that perfectly combines traditional charm with modern conveniences to provide a high standard of self-catering. Located close to the many beautiful beaches and attractions of North Cornwall, the lodge is within easy driving distance of Boscastle, Tintagel and Bodmin Moor and a great base for a family holiday exploring this beautiful part of the South West. Shorter stay enquiries welcome, minimum 3 nights
A newly built ‘fisherman’s style’ holiday cottage with parking in an exceptionally enviable position a stone's throw from the bustling quayside in the heart of Padstow, North Cornwall. Great pubs, restaurants and miles of glorious sandy beach to relax and unwind, swim or enjoy water sports. Superb coastal walking and good cycling with the Camel Trail starting in Padstow, taking you past Bodmin and beyond.
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*
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
Garden Cottage is one of 5 welcoming holiday homes at Tregrehan. Well appointed, the self-catering cottages sit on the South Coast of Cornwall, perfectly sandwiched between the bustling harbour town of Fowey and Charlestown and within easy reach of the areas top beaches and attractions including The Eden Project.
The Mews is one of five lovely holiday homes located at Tregrehan, equidistant from the historic Cornish village of Charlestown and the popular harbour town of Fowey on the beautiful South Coast of Cornwall. An abundance of attractions within easy reach including fabulous beaches, gardens and of course the world famous Eden Project.
Harvest Barn sleeps eight guests and is a fabulous holiday home ideally placed just inland of North Cornwall's stunning coastline near to Bude. The perfect place for a special holiday with friends or extended families. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
If you fancy a romantic getaway to Cornwall, then this beautiful apartment is ideal. It is in the stylish seaside village of Rock, just across the Camel Estuary from Padstow and within walking distance of the beach, bakery, butcher, fish and chip shop, pub and boutiques. Rock is a chic seaside destination with excellent amenities and a relaxed atmosphere, and the added benefit of being close to popular attractions and beaches. The self-catering apartment has one bedroom but can accommodate up to two children on comfortable sofa beds.
Relax by the water in this contemporary architect-designed property with fantastic views over St Just Creek. Sandbar is in St Just in Roseland on the Roseland Peninsula, close to St Mawes and within walking distance of beautiful beaches. It sleeps up to six people in two bedrooms (plus double sofa bed) and is perfect for couples, families or friends, especially those who enjoy walking, cycling and exploring the region's beautiful gardens. These include the Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan and National Trust Trellisick Gardens. Falmouth, Truro and St Austell are also within easy reach.
This charming cottage is in Hayle on the beautiful Cornish coast. Though only 300 metres from the town centre, it is peaceful and private thanks to its secluded position. In addition to being within walking distance of beaches and the South West Coastal Path, guests are within easy reach of favourite attractions like Land's End and the Minack Theatre. This cottage is ideal for couples but also perfect for families who appreciate the high standard of accommodation and sunny courtyard garden.
Rock is one of the most stylish waterfront towns in Cornwall. Hollyhocks is a charming cottage dating back over 100 years which can accommodate up to seven guests to sleep in three bedrooms. It is within walking distance of the beach, pub, shops and the foot-ferry to Padstow, with lots of space indoors and outside and layout that suits relaxed seaside living. There is plenty to see and do in every season, including walking or cycling along the Camel Trail, visiting historic houses, shopping and browsing the art galleries, and lazing on beautiful Cornish beaches.
** We now have a virtual tour on our website** Poldowrian New House is the perfect location for discerning guests who are looking for somewhere extra special to get away from it all. Most visitors describe it as "magical". Poldowrian is a small, secluded farmstead with ¾ mile of rugged cliffs, glorious coastal walks, and one of Cornwall’s most beautiful woodland gardens. The New House offers 2 double bedrooms, 1 twin room and 1 bunk room ideal for kids. All bedrooms have stunning sea views. An additional sofa bed in the games room increases the maximum capacity to 10 people. There are 3 bath / shower rooms and further 2 toilets. The house has been recently renovated, including a new kitchen / dining room, a utility room and a beautiful terrace where you can soak up the evening sun or dine al fresco, while looking out over the bay towards the Lizard, the most southerly point on the British mainland.
Beautifully located, this traditional holiday cottage enjoys a prime position overlooking Mevagissey's picturesque harbour in South Cornwall. Pubs, restaurants and shops on the doorstep, beautiful beaches and coastal walks locally and an abundance of attractions for day trips out. Take the ferry to Fowey, lace up your walking boots and explore the coastal path, hire a boat and explore the surrounding waters or just relax by the sea.
Tregrehan is a truly enchanting holiday retreat offering a choice of five self-catering cottages on Cornwall's South West coast between the ancient harbour town of Fowey and the Cornish village of Charlestown. With plenty of attractions and gardens (including the Eden Project) nearby, as well as fabulous beaches, there are plenty of great days out.
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!
The collection of self-catering apartments at The Old Rectory makes it ideal for a holiday for everyone from couples to families and larger groups of family or friends. Its location on the edge of Lanreath village is private and peaceful, yet only 100 metres from the village shop. The Tipsy Cow offers the opportunity for a cheeky evening drink with great views over the moors and right next to the children's play area. Our village pub The Punchbowl Inn is due to re-open after extensive refurbishment very soon. The beaches at Looe and Polperro are ten minutes away, while favourite attractions like the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan and multiple gorgeous National Trust houses and gardens are all easily accessible by car. An outdoor swimming pool is available from the late May Bank Holiday weekend to the end of August.Our gardens here are gorgeous and we provide lots of seating areas for you to relax with a glass of wine, your morning coffee or a book. We have a games barn with table tennis, air hockey and pool, so you can challenge the family to an evening of fun. There is a small childrens play area for the younger children in your party (supervision required, please).
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:
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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.
