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
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*
South View is a stylish spacious self-contained ground floor apartment with incredible views. Guests can enjoy a peaceful location just two miles from Bude and within walking distance of two friendly pubs, supermarkets and a well-stocked village shop. Activities including surfing, coasteering, cycling, golf, and walking the South West Coast footpath, and with world-class restaurants and sites like the dramatic setting of Tintagel Castle and secret coves used by pirates, a holiday at South View will be one you will always remember.
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. We have been family run for 21 years and pride ourselves in offering beautiful apartments capturing the essence of Georgian grandeur at sensible prices everyone can afford. 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 even closer and serves delicious food with frequent additional entertainment. 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
Tregrehan is an enchanting holiday retreat with five holiday cottages located on the South Coast of Cornwall between the ancient town of Fowey and the harbour village of Charlestown. With plenty of attractions and gardens nearby (including the Eden Project), there are no shortage of places to visit and wonderful beaches for lazy days.
There's nothing between you and sensational ocean views when you stay at Foxes. The holiday cottage sits on the cliff above beautiful Treyarnon Bay with direct access to the South West Coast footpath and the beach. There is space for up to eight people to sleep in five bedrooms, so grab your mates, the kids and even the dog and load up the car! Padstow's pretty harbour, excellent restaurants and amenities are only a few miles down the road, and there's a friendly pub within walking distance. It's the perfect spot for a seaside holiday in Cornwall all year round. Tourist board rating: 3 Star
Completely self-contained, Gallants is one of three flats in a converted waterside chapel on Falmouth’s inner harbour – the third deepest natural harbour in the world. It has a magnificent, panoramic view across the harbour and, while conveniently close to restaurants and shops, is down a private lane, so quiet and sheltered from the bustle of the town. The lane leads to a yard where we have free off-street parking for one car. Falmouth is a lively and historic town, with good restaurants, cafés and pubs, independent food shops and supermarkets, art galleries, craft and gift shops and is the venue for many events all year round. In Falmouth and its immediate surroundings, there are three beaches, Henry VIII’s Pendennis castle to explore, world-renowned gardens at Trelissick, Glendurgan and Trebah, pretty villages and access to the Roseland Peninsula via King Harry car and foot ferry, just 20 minutes’ drive away.
Its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful harbour make Mevagissey a favourite Cornish holiday destination. This fantastic holiday cottage, which sleeps eight people in four bedrooms, is a leisurely ten-minute stroll from Mevagissey's pubs, shops and restaurants, and just a few minutes walk to the secluded, sheltered beach. Kittiwake is the families much loved holiday home and is spacious and private, with both the interior living areas and garden perfectly designed for relaxing. With great attractions like the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project nearby, this Cornish cottage is ideal for families and groups of friends.
Primrose is a traditional barn conversion offering stylish self-catering accommodation for up to six guests. Enjoying a rural position amongst Cornish countryside, this stylish holiday cottage is only three miles from the popular pubs, restaurants, shops and attractions of Fowey and close to Polkerris beach. Enjoy lazy days with the sand between your toes, fabulous coastal walks and easy access to the many attractions of South Cornwall. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
An Eco-friendly holiday rental located in a rural position just three miles from the popular sailing town of Fowey and near to Polkerris beach. Close by to wonderful beaches, good restaurants, coastal walks and all the attractions of South Cornwall. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Higher Scarsick Cottage is a real country retreat. Set on a working farm and surrounded by rolling farmland, its central location makes it ideal for exploring both the coast and the countryside, as well as beautiful market towns like Launceston and Camelford. It is easy to reach the best attractions in Cornwall including Boscastle, Tintagel and the Eden Project, while the rural location means you have ample privacy and a large garden in which to relax.
You'll be the envy of your friends when they hear you're staying at Gull Rock, so why not bring them with you! This large seafront holiday home is across the road from Porthmeor Beach and within a short stroll of St Ives many fantastic shops, galleries, and eateries. It sleeps 12 people in six bedrooms, four of which are ensuite, and suits families and friends. The location is incredible with guests having easy access to the beach, South West Coast Path and some of Cornwall's favourite attractions including Land's End and the Eden Project.
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
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
Trewithick is a traditional farmhouse close to the north Cornwall coast. The four-bedroom self-catering holiday cottage is in the tranquil hamlet of Trelights, a few miles from Port Isaac and beaches like Rock, Daymer Bay, and Port Quin. Padstow and Tintagel are an easy drive for a day of sightseeing and lunch, with shops and other amenities a few miles away in Wadebridge and Camelford. The detached holiday rental sleeps nine people and is furnished to suit families with children of all ages. Well-behaved dogs are welcome by arrangement. Bookings are available all year round, with long-weekends possible depending on availability.
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!
A clifftop retreat with direct access to the South West Coast Path is a rarity, and one with no immediate neighbours even more so. Cancleave delivers both of these features together with superb views and a high standard of accommodation with space for eight people to sleep in four beautiful bedrooms. It is conveniently located on the coast road between Crackington Haven and Widemouth Bay, with easy access to Bude, Boscastle and Tintagel. Cancleave has been in the family since 1962 and used as a holiday let all that time. They have recently replaced the original property with a modern building boasting energy-efficient features that will help protect the landscape for generations to come.
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.
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.
