East Cornwall Holiday Cottages

A peaceful corner of Cornwall

Choosing one of our holiday cottages in East Cornwall gives you easy access to both coast and countryside. The area stretches from the River Tamar on the Devon border to the start of Cornwall’s southern coast, taking in rolling farmland, wooded valleys, and charming fishing villages. It’s ideal for walkers, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys a more authentic, less commercial part of the county. The scenery is varied, with dramatic cliffs, sheltered coves, and the open landscapes of Bodmin Moor nearby.

Coastal towns and villages

Looe is one of East Cornwall’s most popular seaside towns, with a working harbour, sandy beach, and plenty of cafés and restaurants. It’s a great base for exploring the coast, and there’s always something happening along the quayside. Just along the coast, Polperro is a beautiful fishing village with narrow streets, whitewashed cottages, and small independent galleries. Inland, Liskeard offers traditional Cornish character, weekly markets, and good links for exploring the surrounding countryside. The Rame Peninsula, sometimes called Cornwall’s “forgotten corner”, is also part of East Cornwall and includes quiet beaches and coastal villages such as Kingsand and Cawsand.

Walking, coast and countryside

The South West Coast Path passes through this region, offering spectacular walks between Looe, Polperro, and Seaton. The views take in rugged cliffs, wooded valleys, and sweeping stretches of sea. Inland, the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers peaceful riverside trails and viewpoints over the border between Devon and Cornwall. It’s a paradise for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone who enjoys getting outdoors. Nearby, Bodmin Moor adds open landscapes, ancient stone circles, and small moorland villages that reveal another side of Cornish life.

For a gentler day out, try a stroll along the banks of the River Fowey, a cycle along the Camel Trail, or a picnic beside one of East Cornwall’s wooded creeks. The countryside here is rich in wildlife, with herons, kingfishers, and otters often spotted along the rivers and estuaries.

Food, drink and local finds

East Cornwall has a growing reputation for good food and local produce. The fishing boats in Looe bring in fresh catches daily, while local farm shops and delis offer seasonal fruit, vegetables, and Cornish cheeses. Traditional pubs serve hearty meals beside the fire, and there are plenty of tearooms for a cream tea after a walk. The market town of Liskeard hosts regular food events, and the Tamar Valley is known for its orchards and cider producers. Whether you’re eating out or cooking in, the region makes self-catering easy and enjoyable.

History, heritage and hidden corners

East Cornwall is full of history. In Polperro, you can visit the Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing, while the narrow streets themselves tell stories of the village’s maritime past. Liskeard was once a busy mining town, and its historic buildings still reflect its Victorian prosperity. Near the River Tamar, you’ll find old quays, lime kilns, and railways that once served the copper mines of the valley. The area is dotted with medieval churches, standing stones, and ancient hill forts, giving every walk or drive a sense of discovery.

Find your ideal cottage

At Lime Cottages, we’ve chosen a selection of holiday cottages in East Cornwall that reflect the calm and character of the area. From cosy hideaways in the hills to seaside cottages near Looe and Polperro, each property has been carefully chosen for comfort, quality, and location. You’ll find options for couples, families, and dog owners, whether you want a countryside retreat or a base near the beach.

Our cottages range from traditional stone buildings to modern homes with views of the coast or countryside. Each one is ready for you to settle in and make your own, with thoughtful touches that make all the difference. East Cornwall isn’t about rushing around – it’s about fresh air, quiet moments, and time well spent with the people you’re with. It’s a place to enjoy good food, gentle walks, and evenings that end watching the light fade over the hills or the sea.