One of the premiere tourist attractions within the UK, Cornwall attracts a wealth of Brits and international visitors alike.
A charming county with a slow paced lifestyle and laid back atmosphere, tourists flock here to relax, to soak up the sun (it has the most in Britain!), and to enjoy and explore some of the UK’s finest natural attractions and outdoor activity scenes.
Cornwall combines beautiful surf spots, gorgeous gardens, cliff top walks and beautiful weather. It offers visitors the chance to take a stroll along the beach, indulge in a bit of wave watching, and then head back to a tradition pub to enjoy a pint with friends beside a glowing log fire.
You will obviously need somewhere to stay while on vacation, and one of the most popular types of accommodation here are cottages. However there are many cottages throughout Cornwall, and choosing one can be a daunting task. So we’ve put together some tips for finding your perfect stay.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Cottage in Cornwall
Assess your needs
What kind of cottage do you need? There are different types of cottages each set to meet different needs. For instance, if you have a large family and a pet, you may need a larger cottage with more room and that allows animals.
Do you prefer a cottage close to the beach? How many rooms do you want? What kind of view do you want? Which features are you looking for, ie fireplaces? Do you need an apartment, a townhouse or a country mansion?
Look for a cottage that meets your needs. Whether you want to holiday in Penzance, Falmouth, Newquay, Padstow, St. Ives, Looe, St. Austell or Bude, there are cottages for everyone, so don’t just book one blindly.
Cornwall is a great destination for dog lovers, with great walks and many of the beaches welcoming pets. Many cottages allow pets, but make sure you check this before you make a booking.
Ask a Referral From a Friend or Family
Because Cornwall has many cottages, it may be difficult to make a decision on the right one. But Cornwall is such a popular UK holiday, that chances are you have friends or family who can recommend something for you.
These are the best type of referrals, because unlike reviews you find online, you know you can trust their opinion. And they’ll likely know whether or not it will suit your needs and what you’re looking for. Which saves quite a lot of time from researching online!
Search Online
While travel agents are a great source of information, and there’s something wildly spontaneous about just rocking up and seeing what you can find, your search for a cottage is easier if you check online.
There are many websites listing cottages in Cornwall, so do your research to compare between location, key features, and price. These will make it easier to find the cottage and make a decision on the right one.
Check Customer Reviews and Ratings
As much as it can be time-consuming, going through reviews by other customers who have used a cottage can help you to find a cottage that will not only meet your needs but have the kind of service that you desire.
It’s very important to actually read people’s reviews thoroughly, instead of skimming past and only paying attention to the ratings / stars. For instance, someone’s 5 star rating might be based off having access to facilities you don’t need or care for.
And likewise in reverse; someone might rate their stay a 1 / 5, simply because it doesn’t offer Barbas Bellfires fireplaces. So it’s important that you take the time to actually read reviews to figure out if it’s the right cottage for you.
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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
22 Comments
I like these tips Meg. Big fan of sun, and I had to figure Cornwall had the most in the UK. Why? All those eye-popping seaside shots I see online are possible only because the place gets optimal lighting aka sun for those shots. Blue waters exist only in sun-kissed environments, right?
Ryan
Lol yes probably some of the most beautiful sunny shots to come out of the UK, and all from Cornwall :D
Hope you have the chance to visit at some stage :)
We loved staying in Padstow – so many restaurants around.
So glad you had a great vacation Joline. Padstow is a great area indeed :)
Haven’t rented a cottage before but the Driftwood Hotel near Portscatho feels as much Côte d’Azur as Cornwall. There is a semi-private beach at the foot of the garden, decked terraces overlooking the dreamy view and a romantic cabin halfway down the cliff. Can highly recommend a stay!
Thanks for the tip Lynette – sounds incredible! Sounds like I have an excuse for a return trip :)
Do you think there would be may opportunities in the Cornwall region for a home exchange?
Hi Graham, you can check out sites like homeexchange.com – this is probably the best site used by the most members, so if there’s something in Cornwall it should show up here :)
Assessing your needs is the big one for us – sounds like it would be such a simple step but so many people don’t consider this and just book something that looks god without thinking if it’s practical for a trip. We personally prefer cottages for the cooking facilities, as my husband has severe food allergies, and hotels often don’t provide the require amenities to let us cook fr ourselves.
Absolutely Amanda – sounds like you have your travel style down pat :)
We love Cornwall; we’ve stayed at the Rosevine in the past, which is a great mix inbetween cottage and luxury hotel; it’s a family-friendly Cornish country house but with the independence of having your own studio or apartment. Beautiful setting by the sea.
So glad you had a fabulous time Zena – thanks for the tip on the Rosevine – I’ll check it out next time :)
Cottages are so much more comfortable than hotels. I always feel awkward at a hotel when I’m tracking in sand from the beach!
Absolutely Pamela – feels like a home away from home :)
Good tips.
Thanks Julie, glad the post was helpful :)
Cornwall is the best place in the UK.
Agreed! Such a fab escape :)
Cottages are such a great option for groups; Cornwall has such multi-generational appeal that we take our family reunions and holidays here every couple of years.
Totally agree – maybe I’ll bump into you one year!
Cosy and god for self-catering.
Absolutely Kimbery :)