County · England
Where to stay in Cornwall
Surf beaches, harbour towns and the warmest light in England.
Cornwall is where England goes to feel like somewhere else. A long, two-coasted peninsula of surf strands, fishing harbours and sub-tropical gardens, it rewards anyone willing to drive that little bit further.
The north coast brings the big surf and the cliff drama; the south is softer, with creeks and sheltered coves. St Ives and Padstow anchor the food and art scenes, and the places to stay run from harbourside townhouses to beachfront estates.
The shortlist
Best places to stay in Cornwall
Trevose Harbour House
An adults-only townhouse a few steps from St Ives harbour, full of colour, craft and Cornish light.
Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate
A five-star estate above its own Blue Flag beach, with a spa, sea-view suites and room for the whole family.
Watergate Bay Hotel
A relaxed beachfront hotel on a two-mile Cornish strand, with pools, a spa and an easygoing welcome for families and surfers.
Best areas to stay in Cornwall
St Ives & the far west. Light, art and beaches; the prettiest harbour town in the county.
Padstow & the north coast. Surf, the Camel Trail and a serious food reputation.
The Roseland & south coast. Sheltered creeks, gardens and quiet, for slower trips.
Getting there & around
Train. The main line runs to Penzance; the scenic branch to St Ives is one of the best short rides in Britain.
Car & transport. A car is the most practical, though St Ives and the main towns are rail-served.
Car-free. St Ives works well car-free: arrive by train and walk to the beaches. The branch line and buses cover the west.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Cornwall?
Late spring and September give the best mix of weather, light and space. The school holidays are beautiful but crowded and pricier.
Do you need a car in Cornwall?
It helps for exploring, but St Ives and the main towns are reachable by train, and the St Ives branch line is a highlight in itself.
How long should you stay?
Allow at least four nights. Cornwall is a long peninsula and the driving distances surprise first-timers.