336 holiday cottages in Cornwall
Holiday cottages in Cornwall put you close to some of the UK’s most dramatic scenery, from surf beaches on the north coast to sheltered bays and river estuaries in the south. Away from the water you’ll find picture-perfect fishing harbours, subtropical gardens and the open spaces of Bodmin Moor. With a mix of seaside towns and quiet rural spots, Cornwall suits family holidays, walking breaks and easy escapes at any time of year.
Self-catering accommodation gives you the freedom to set your own pace, whether that is beach days, coast path walks or lazy evenings in. Properties listed here are offered through trusted agency partners and inspected to high standards, so you can book with confidence. Choose from coastal apartments, harbourside cottages and countryside barn conversions to match the kind of Cornwall break you have in mind.
Holiday cottages in Cornwall make it easy to enjoy both coast and countryside. The north coast is known for long sandy beaches and Atlantic swells, while the south coast offers calmer waters, wooded creeks and historic harbours. Inland you will find open moorland, cycle trails and gardens with year-round interest. With so much variety in a single county, Cornwall works just as well for short breaks as it does for a longer summer holiday.
Cornwall’s shoreline is the main draw for many visitors. Expect golden beaches, turquoise shallows and rugged headlands linked by the South West Coast Path. Surf spots dot the north coast, while the south coast is home to sheltered coves and family-friendly bays. From dramatic clifftops to quiet inlets where you can paddle and watch the boats, there is a seaside setting for every kind of stay.
There is more to Cornwall than beaches. Bodmin Moor offers wide skies and far-reaching views, while country parks and riverside trails are ideal for gentle days out. Cornwall’s mining heritage, galleries and gardens add plenty of interest when the weather turns, and boat trips on estuaries and creeks show a slower side of the county. A self-catering base gives you the flexibility to fit in walks, swims, exhibitions and café stops as you please.
Cornwall’s towns and fishing villages each have their own feel, from bustling harbourfronts to tucked-away hamlets. South coast favourites include Polperro and Looe, where you can wander narrow streets, browse independent shops and enjoy relaxed places to eat near the water. At the same time, on the northern coastline, the better-known towns of Padstow, St Ives and Newquay offer an abundance of places to eat, drink and while away your days.
Away from the seaside hustle and bustle, inland market towns provide weekly markets, local produce, historic landmarks, and easy access to the county’s coast. Choosing accommodation in the right spot lets you enjoy mornings on the sand, afternoons exploring lanes and galleries, and easy evenings back at your cottage.
Self-catering in Cornwall is a pleasure thanks to fresh seafood, farm shops and bakeries. Pick up local fish, seasonal veg, traditional pasties and Cornish cheeses for simple meals at home, or try waterside pubs and restaurants when you feel like eating out. Many coastal villages make it easy to combine a cliff-top walk with a relaxed lunch, and there are plenty of cafés for coffee-and-cake stops along the way.
Tucking into a cream tea? Be sure to follow Cornish etiquette by spreading the jam first.
Cornwall is set up for families. Safe swimming spots, rock pools, and sandy beaches keep children busy for hours, and there are plenty of rainy-day options, including zoos, adventure parks, water parks, and the world-famous Eden Project. Most Cornish holiday homes provide access to outdoor space, while many include games rooms, board games, and other family entertainment, which makes family life easier after a day out.
Summer brings festival energy, long evenings and warm water, so it is the busiest season. Spring and autumn are great for quieter paths, mild temperatures and good walking and surf conditions. Winter has its own charm with dramatic seas, peaceful towns and cosy pubs after a bracing walk. With a wide choice of inspected places to stay across the county, you can find accommodation that suits both the season and your plans.
Getting to Cornwall is straightforward. Most visitors arrive by car via the M5 and A30, with the A38 serving the south-east of the county. Mainline trains run to Truro and Penzance, with branch lines to several coastal towns, and there are coach services from major UK cities. A car offers the most flexibility for rural locations, but public transport works well for town-based stays and days out along the main routes.
For surf and wide sandy beaches, look to the north coast where you’ll find vibrant towns offering a mixture of traditional and contemporary dining, shops and entertainment. For calmer coves and sheltered estuaries, try the south coast and towns like Looe, Fowey or Polperro for a traditional Cornish escape.
If you like busier towns with plenty to do, Newquay in the north and Falmouth in the south are great places to start, while St Ives, with its artistic heritage, is a brilliant option for those seeking a little culture.
Finally, try Bodmin Moor if you want big views, open country, and a taste of Cornish myth and legend. Whether you choose the coast, a town base or the countryside, you’re never far from the action.
Secure bookings with trusted agency partners
Every cottage inspected to high standards
Hand-picked listings to help you find the right stay
Lime Cottages only works with established holiday cottage agencies, so every booking is secure and professionally managed. All cottages are inspected to high standards by our partners, and we simply bring together the best options to make your search easier. You’ll book directly with the agency, and we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.