Where to stay in Cornwall: harbours, beaches and coast paths

Cornwall occupies the far south-western tip of Britain, almost surrounded by sea. Its coastline is long and varied, from the surf beaches of the north coast to the sheltered creeks and harbours of the south, and much of it is followed by the South West Coast Path, England's longest national trail. Inland there are moors, mining heritage and gardens that flourish in the mild climate. Because it is a big county and roads can be slow, choosing the right base matters more here than in most places. This guide covers the main options.

St Ives

St Ives, on the north coast near the western tip, is one of the best-loved seaside towns in Britain. Its harbour, golden beaches and clear light have drawn artists for well over a century. Tate St Ives overlooks Porthmeor Beach, and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden preserves the sculptor's studio and garden. The old town is a maze of narrow lanes, so parking is very limited; many visitors use the park-and-ride, including the scenic branch railway from St Erth. Browse places to stay in St Ives.

Penzance and Mount's Bay

Penzance is the westernmost major town in England and the terminus of the main railway line from London Paddington, including the overnight Night Riviera sleeper train. It is a practical, good-value base for exploring West Penwith: St Michael's Mount, the tidal island with its castle, lies just offshore from Marazion; the Minack Theatre is carved into the cliffs at Porthcurno; and Land's End and the fishing village of Mousehole are close by. Ferries and flights to the Isles of Scilly also leave from the area. See Penzance listings.

Falmouth and the south coast

Falmouth sits on one of the largest natural harbours in the world, at the mouth of the River Fal. It is home to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and Pendennis Castle, built under Henry VIII, and has a lively, creative atmosphere thanks partly to its university. The town has several beaches, and ferries cross to St Mawes and Flushing. The surrounding Roseland Peninsula and the Helford River offer quieter creeks and gardens. Browse Falmouth stays.

Newquay and the surf coast

Newquay is Cornwall's best-known surf town, with Fistral Beach a famous surfing spot and a string of other beaches nearby. It is lively, with plenty of family attractions and nightlife, and Cornwall Airport Newquay is just outside the town. If you want a beach holiday with activities, it is a good choice. See Newquay listings.

Padstow and the Camel Estuary

Padstow is a working fishing port on the Camel Estuary that has become known for its restaurants. The Camel Trail, a largely flat cycling and walking route along a former railway line, runs from Padstow through Wadebridge towards Bodmin Moor. Across the estuary, Rock and the beaches of Polzeath are popular in summer. Browse Padstow places to stay.

Inland Cornwall

The Eden Project near St Austell, with its giant biomes, is one of Cornwall's best-known attractions. Bodmin Moor offers wild walking, and the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the region's importance to tin and copper mining. Staying inland can be quieter and more central for touring.

When to go

Summer school holidays are very busy, with heavy traffic on the main roads and high demand for accommodation, so book well ahead. May, June and September often bring fine weather with fewer crowds, and the mild climate makes spring gardens a highlight. Winter is quiet and many places close for part of the season, so check before you travel.

Getting there

Trains run from London Paddington to Penzance, with stops including Truro and St Erth, and branch lines serve St Ives, Falmouth, Newquay and Looe. The A30 is the main road into the county. Read our guide to travelling the UK by train for tips on fares and sleepers.

Walking the coast path

The South West Coast Path traces the entire Cornish coastline, and even a short stretch is a highlight of any visit. Popular sections include the clifftop walk from St Ives to Zennor, the dramatic coast around Land's End and Porthcurno, and the gentler paths around the Helford River. Many walkers take a linear route and return by local bus. Check tide times where paths cross beaches, take water, and keep well back from cliff edges, which can be unstable after wet weather.

Choosing a place

Cornwall has everything from clifftop hotels to fishermen's cottages turned B&Bs and family-run guest houses close to the beach. Ask owners about parking, which can be scarce in harbour towns, and about minimum stays in high season. For more coastal inspiration, read our seaside weekends guide, then contact properties directly through our listings.