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All you need to know
From tiny fishing villages and smugglers coves, to bustling seaside towns and sandy beaches, West Cornwall has it all. The sheltered waters of Falmouth and the Helford River are a haven for active families and water sport enthusiasts, while those looking for a walking holiday will be spoilt with miles of stunning coastal paths.
With stunning estuaries and ancient creeks, hidden coves and tiny fishing villages, West Cornwall is one of the most picturesque and unspoilt corners of the West Country. Whether you’re hoping for an action-packed family holiday or a relaxing break enjoying coastal walks and fresh seafood, our holiday cottages in West Cornwall offer a great base to experience everything the region has to offer.
Built around the third largest natural harbour in the world, Falmouth is a bustling port town with so much to see and do. Life here revolves around the sea, so whether it’s a gentle ferry ride to St Mawes, paddleboarding around the harbour or setting sail, a holiday in Falmouth isn’t complete without taking to the water. Head to the National Maritime Museum to learn about the town’s vibrant history, step back in time at Pendennis Castle, or take your time to explore Falmouth’s many art galleries, boutique shops, cafés and restaurants. With shops, restaurants and a whole host of attractions on its doorstep, Falmouth is an ideal destination for family holidays.
One of the best things to do in West Cornwall is visit the many beautiful beaches. Just west of Falmouth, tucked away between wooded headlands, are the golden sands of Maenporth. This pretty beach has clear waters, soft sand and lots of rockpools - perfect for young families. Thanks to its sheltered position, it’s also a great spot to try your hand at a range of water sports, such as kayaking, paddle boarding and even scuba diving.
Slightly further along the coast is the stunning Helford River estuary. Described as ‘the jewel in Cornwall’s crown’, the beautiful river is lined with wooded banks, ancient fishing villages, hidden coves and tranquil creeks. Here you can stay in old coastguard cottages and wake up to boats sailing past your window, eat freshly caught seafood in the waterside pubs and walk along the river’s tranquil inlets, including Daphne du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek. Two subtropical gardens line the river valley, offering great days out for adults and children alike, and a visit to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek is a must.
West of the Helford River lies the Lizard Peninsular - one of the best places to visit in West Cornwall. This rugged stretch of coastline juts out into the sea, marking the most southerly point in Britain. Tiny fishing villages line the cliffs facing the wild Atlantic waves, and colourful boats and lobster pots fill the sheltered coves. Due to its jagged rocks and hidden reefs, shipwrecks pepper the coastline here, making the Lizard a fantastic spot for scuba diving.
The South West Coast Path runs all the way along this stunning stretch of coast, making West Cornwall a great location for both walking holidays and dog-friendly holidays. Head west along the craggy cliff tops of the Lizard or set off in the other direction to reach West Cornwall’s beautiful beaches, including Gyllyngvase, Swanpool, Castle and Maenporth - either way you’ll be treated to breathtaking sea views and friendly village pubs.
From lazy beach days, culture fixes and Cornish cuisine, to water sports, coastal walks and family fun, a holiday in West Cornwall has something for everyone.
The lively harbour town of Falmouth is one of Cornwall’s most popular seaside resorts. A mecca for sailing and water sports, it sits on the edge of one of the world’s largest natural harbours. From museums, art galleries and gardens, to castles, diving schools and beautiful beaches, there’s so much to see and do. There’s also a vibrant array of boutique shops, high street stores, artisan cafés and seafood restaurants, and a busy calendar of festivals, regattas and events.
On the banks of the picturesque Helford River, Helford Passage is a small hamlet filled with whitewashed cottages. There’s a pretty beach where you can hire boats, kayaks and paddleboards to explore the many creeks and inlets of the estuary whilst keeping an eye out for the abundant wildlife. Helford Passage is home to a small gift shop and a fantastic beachside pub, which serves freshly caught seafood. The South West Coast Path runs through the village, and the subtropical gardens of Glendurgan and Trebah are within a mile.
Nestled between Falmouth Bay and the Helford River, Maenporth is home to a beautiful sandy beach. Thanks to sheltered waters, rockpools and a beachside café, it is popular with young families, and is also a fantastic spot for a range of watersports. It's also home to an award-winning restaurant, which serves high quality food and enjoys stunning sea views. The coast path runs through Maenporth, making it easy to walk to both Falmouth and the Helford River.
Surrounded by countryside, yet only a couple of miles from both Falmouth and the Helford River, Mawnan Smith is perfectly placed for exploring this beautiful stretch of Cornish coastline. The pretty village is filled with traditional thatched cottages, a selection of shops and cafés and a friendly village pub. There are several sandy beaches and pretty coves nearby, and the popular gardens of Trebah and Glendurgan are less than a mile from the village.
On the east coast of the rugged Lizard Peninsular, not far from the Helford River, Porthallow is a quintessential Cornish fishing village. Once home to a busy pilchard fleet, today you’ll find fresh seafood on the menu of the village pub and lobster pots lining the pebble beach. The South West Coast Path runs right through the village, offering spectacular coastal views in both directions.
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One of Henry VIII’s finest coastal fortresses, Pendennis Castle has protected Cornwall against invasion since the Tudor period and operated throughout the period 1539–1956. When you visit you can learn about how the castle has evolved, experience the sights and sounds of battle, and examine the role of the castle as part of Fortress Falmouth during the First World War. The castle dominates a high rocky headland on the south side of the Fal Estuary, overlooking the English Channel. It’s a great day out for families or those who are just interested in the area, with lots of events available throughout the summer months. The castle is open from March to September and prices start at £7.90 for non English Heritage members.
a wet and windy trip but a good castle to explore
November 2019
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Through their varied exhibitions programme the National Maritime Museum brings new and diverse perspectives to maritime issues, and highlight their relevance to the present day. They also bring rare objects from around the world to Cornwall to tell local, national and international stories.
Click here for further details
Enjoy £1 off admission with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
Great museum with plenty to interest all ages. Glad they belatedly found out that there were two different half term weeks in the country! Great craft activity
November 2019
An interesting place to visit especially on a damp day.
June 2019
Great experience for all ages. Very interesting and informative displays.
April 2019
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Run by the National Trust, Glendurgan Gardens span over three valleys, filled with sub-tropical plants, exotic flowers and bright blooms. The peaceful gardens lead down to the unspoilt beachside hamlet of Durgan. Here you can take a rest and enjoy the stunning views of the Helford River, treat yourself to an ice cream, build sandcastles and watch the wildlife on the water. Glendurgan Garden offer a great day out for the entire family thanks to its impressive maze and Giant’s Stride rope swing, shop and teahouse, which serves traditional Cornish cream teas, light lunches and Children’s meals.
Glendurgan Garden, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR115JZ (T: 01326 252020)
No dogs allowed
September 2023
We would love to visit Glendurgan, but cannot do so until they become dog-friendly. In contrast, Trebah gardens nearby allow dogs and they do not appear to cause any problems.
May 2023
Brilliant place run by the National Trust - rhodos,etc were finished so do book your holiday for end of April, spring Bank holiday if its spring flowering stuff you want to see -
May 2022
Beautiful gardens. Enjoyable walk down the gully to the village and beach. Then the steep walk back! Lovely sub tropical plants, nice cafe at the top
May 2022
Beautiful gardens with lovely cafe and second hand bookshop.
October 2021
Gardens have been kept lovely but unfortunately there were staff shortages so long queues for food or ice cream. There were no plants to buy this year but that is hardly surprising. The staff all worked very hard to make the visit pleasant. They deserve a medal!
September 2021
An authentic, centuries old smithy which has been restored as a working forge, offering you the chance to watch a skilled blacksmith, sign-writer, silversmith and furniture maker as they work and browse their unique, hand-crafted products. There’s also an exhibition where you can learn all about the history of Mawnan Smith and the restoration of its smithy.
Mawnan Craft Centre, Carwinion Road, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR11 5JF
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Spend an afternoon exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Helford River with a boat tour helmed by an experience skipper. This memorable trip aboard The Hannah Molly – a traditional Cornish boat with room for 12 people – begins from Budock Vean. From here, you’ll travel along Port Navas Creek, past Helford Passage and Trebah Gardens, before crossing to Helford village and its surrounding creeks and inlets, including Daphne du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek.
Helford River Cruises, Budock Vean Hotel, Mawan Smirh TR11 5LG (T: 07941 027732)
On demand service. We used the river boat service to travel from the Ferry Boat Inn on one side of the river to explore the sleepy and picturesque village on the other. Happy to take under 5s too.
July 2021
Amazing company - our daughter and friend hired kayaks and boats, and despite running the latter aground, the staff were good humoured and helpful. (Sorry folks, but we'll be back next year!).
June 2021
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A thatched traditional inn in the heart of Mawnan Smith just minutes from the South West Coast Path and a pretty stroll through the woods to Maenporth Beach. Here you can sample local ales and ciders in the raftered bar along with enjoyable food from light lunches to a evening menu packed full of fresh local Cornish produce. A great spot to stop off when walking or visiting nearby Glendurgan or Trebah Garden. Children and dogs welcome.
The Red Lion, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth TR11 5EP (T: 01326 250026)
25% off food with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
We visit this pub often but this visit they declined our 25% off . Apparently Toad cottages were informed.. this made us feel very embarrassed. Can you comment on this please
May 2023
Excellent pub - great food and service would pop in again.
October 2021
The staff were brilliant but the food was just average, I'm afraid. We would not be likely to go there again.
June 2021
We ate here in the first couple of days of our stay. The staff were very friendly, as were the 'locals' and there is a good choice of seating areas and a varied menu. Food quality was very good and the service was prompt, all at a fair price. Would definitely go back. The Boar burger was lush !!
August 2019
We ate in The Red Lion and found the food to be well cooked and a decent portion. Service was prompt and well worth a visit.
June 2019
(43)
Dating back 300 years, The Ferry Boat Inn sits on the edge of the beach at Helford Passage. Thanks to its waterside position, you can look out over one of the most beautiful views in Cornwall whilst enjoying a drink or delicious meal. The Ferry Boat serves a tasty menu of homemade pub classics, alongside fresh, locally caught seafood dishes. Outside, there’s a large terrace with plenty of seating, perfect for long sunny days and warm, summer’s evenings, and come winter there’s a cosy open fire. Children and dogs very welcome.
The Ferry Boat Inn, Helford Passage, Falmouth, TR11 5LB (T: 01326 250625)
Very good and convenient
April 2024
Only a flight of stairs away. Friendly pub, good food, perfect setting.
April 2024
Excellent and welcoming.
February 2024
Lovely food and so close!!
September 2023
Had two lovely meals here during our stay. It’s a great pub with a wonderful terrace. Staff were really lovely.
September 2023
Stayed in Helford Passage and had delicious seafood here on 2 nights of our stay. Husband is GF and gluten free fish batter was really fabulous
September 2023
Staff great and really helpful , food lovely,
September 2023
Good food Pleasant polite staff would really
September 2023
Great place to people watch and taking in the Helford river. Staff are amazing and the fish Tacos were excellent.
September 2023
Very busy, good food and pleasant staff.
August 2023
Really enjoyed visiting this pub, relaxed, doggie friendly, great food, friendly staff and my favourite beer on tap! Would recommend booking if you want to eat around 6 - 7pm
July 2023
We stayed above the Ferryboat Inn and used it several times for an evening meal. Delicious food, good portions and service was friendly. As it was warm and sunny, we were able to enjoy the gorgeous view over the river too. It's a hidden gem of an area with the added bonus of a good eating and drinking place
June 2023
Great atmosphere - great menu - great location
June 2023
Very good food from here and nice staff - we had a few meals and also drinks
June 2023
Had a great meal here - great menu with super specials using local ingredients every day.
June 2023
Lovely pub on the River, food was very nice. One small thing to be aware of, we tried to book Sunday lunch only to be told they are booking around 2 weeks in advance! Just a heads up to book if you were planning a trip, I guess that must be an indication of the food! We enjoyed our mid week meal though, staff were friendly and efficient but unobtrusive. Food was good quality and reasonably priced. We’d be happy to return again.
February 2023
Lovely, friendly pub with lots of dogs. We have been coming to The Ferryboat Inn for years. It was particularly enjoyable out of season, in January, although still sufficient numbers of locals and visitors to provide atmosphere. The hake chowder is particularly good!
January 2023
Fab great food
July 2022
Amazing food and drink options and lovely service however opening hours should ideally be extended and more food options at lunchtime would make it even better. It was brilliant when they did the takeaway options as well as main food options
June 2022
The Ferryboat Inn has it all, stunning location, good atmosphere and great food at reasonable prices.
November 2021
Very friendly and efficient staff. Food delicious. Setting perfect.
October 2021
Stunning pub right on the river - top quality food and service - one of the best fish and chips out there!!!
October 2021
We’ve been here a number of times previous to our most recent visit in October, and eaten on each occasion - hence we keep coming back..!! However on this occasion, we found the place (inside) totally lacking atmosphere. I guess that could be a hangover from the impact of the pandemic, but the staff were very lacklustre too - helpful, but they didn’t look like they were enjoying it. We have to say though, the food was as flavourful as ever - brilliant. Could have done with a little more adventure in the menu, as well as having some starters, but the quality was great.
October 2021
Unfortunately we were not able to visit during our time in Helford Passage as there were long queues. This may get better when people start to go abroad again. Food on offer looked good.
September 2021
Charles, manager, very helpful & professional. Good food. Many thanks
September 2021
Best fish in batter I have ever had!
July 2021
Excellent position along with excellent fish and chips
July 2021
Due to Covid staff shortages the remaining staff team did a great job in holding it all together. Well done !
June 2021
Had a meal inside be night. Social distances were observed. Also great food.
June 2021
Lovely food.
June 2021
Excellent service and food. View pretty amazing as well.
June 2021
Fantastic local pub with excellent food and friendly staff. Can't fault it!
May 2021
test review
April 2021
We had a weeks stay and used the Ferryboat Inn often. The online ordering was easy and collection very well organised. Every meal we had was delicious especially the Sticky Toffee Pudding - I would highly recommend it
September 2020
Fabulous food, great wine and viewes to die for! We had the sunday roast and can honestly say it's the best we 've ever eaten! Such a gem of a pub! X
January 2020
Great food. Excellent service. Very friendly helpful staff.
September 2019
Faultless! We have seen the FBI through many incarnations over the decades. I think the current crew is quite possibly the best. Excellent food and AMAZING service sometimes in very testing conditions, not all customers are nice! We eat there frequently, sometimes daily, less so this year because the weather was not so good so had a few away days, but we ate breakfast, excellent innovation!, lunch and supper. Congratulations and thanks to you all
August 2019
Wonderful location, freshly prepared good food. Friendly staff.
August 2019
Good quality food, freshly prepared and trying to cater for many tastes. Friendly staff and atmosphere.
August 2019
Absolutely fantastic food in a glorious waterside location. Pretty unbeatable. Thank you. Quick service too.
July 2019
had great evening meal while listening to the Oggies! Staff friendly despite how busy it was
July 2019
The Ferryboat was excellent delicious food and a great atmosphere. Staff helpful and friendly and obviously a view to die for.
June 2019
Lovely food with wonderful views of the Helford River.
June 2019
(4)
A fantastic spot to eat, drink and relax, watching the boats go by whilst the kids go crabbing. This lovely old waterside pub, with views to die for, has a friendly atmosphere and serves tasty, wholesome food and great local beers all in an idyllic setting. Arrive by ferry from Helford Passage which brings you almost to the door, tie your boat or kayak to the pub’s pontoon or park in the car park at the top of the village and walk.
The Shipwrights Arms, Helford Village, Helston TR12 6JX (T: 01326 231235)
Brilliant pub in a fantastic location - food / service top class.
October 2021
Lovely place for a drink or food.
June 2021
Great location but feels very touristy in approach
July 2019
Great pub with great beer. Outside views brilliant.
April 2019
(44)
Cafe and beach shop right on the sand at Maenporth beach. The cafe serves a great selection of freshly prepared food including crab sandwiches and delicious cornish cream teas, along with ice creams, coffees and lots more. And if you’ve forgotten your bucket and spade you’ll find one in the beach shop along with other beach toys, wetsuits and souvenirs. Cash only.
Lifes a Beach Maenporth Beach, Falmouth (T: 01326 251209)
Good cafe. Fair prices
April 2024
We love Life's a beach, fantastic location, great food and coffee, really friendly staff.
October 2023
Life's a Beach is on the top ten of my favourite places in the world. The setting is glorious, right on the beach with coastal walks available in both directions and it's open 7 days a week. The menu is perfect (in my book) and the food much more delicious than you might expect from a beach cafe. My only criticism is that it isn't open 24 hours a day!
October 2023
Lovely coffee and cakes
August 2023
Absolutely excellent. Ice cream amazing
August 2023
Lovely cafe! Just a shame they were out of so many items on the menu. After a busy Monday, they didn’t seem to restock all week.
August 2023
Great beach cafe!
August 2023
Really good location & the food was good too.
July 2023
Delightful cafe with lovely food on a really beautiful beach. Definitely worth a visit .
July 2023
Excellent food and drink in a beautiful setting. Love the recent improvements to the decking area!
April 2023
Great little cafe with helpful and and friendly staff.
August 2022
Lovely breakfast sausage baps early on the beach, yummy milkshakes made with icecream too! Great place and great choice of food. Would certainly recommend
August 2022
Outstanding food and service. The cafe makes the place for us!
July 2022
Lovely little cafe, great food & the ice-cream is delicious. The staff could not be more helpful. If like myself you have mobility issues and cannot walk on sand they have a fabulous Sand Chair (beach wheelchair) which you can book out and have a push down to the shore line, it was a fabulous find. Many thanks all
June 2022
We used life's a beach every day, lovely food, drink and staff, great place.
June 2022
A perfect beach cafe!
June 2022
Friendly service, and great food!
June 2022
Lovely food, great choice & very polite, helpful staff
June 2022
Right on your doorstep - lots of people swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking - if that's your thing
May 2022
Love this cafe - great service, friendly team and the food is delicious. Highly recommend the mackerel brioche when it's available!
May 2022
A good selection of hot drinks, lunch and ice cream which you can sit outside on the picnic tables by the beach to eat and drink. We came here a few times.
April 2022
Great beach cafe.
November 2021
Stopped off one morning for tea and a bacon sarnie - well recommended.
October 2021
Had a lovely coffee sat watching all the dogs in the water … we sat for ages ,.just relaxing by the sea
October 2021
Very good beach bar.
October 2021
Beautiful position lovely coffee and tea and cake
September 2021
We only used this to buy ice creams and a bucket and spade for the kids... Ice creams wer fab!
September 2021
Only bought drinks and ice-creams from here. However the food we saw other people eating looked good. As there is no local shop would have been helpful if they had stocked basic essentials like milk.
September 2021
We loved this beach cafe, great menu, fab staff and amazing cake!!!
September 2021
Very good food.
August 2021
Wonderful cafe. Food is fantastic and very reasonably priced.
August 2021
Very good lunch time food, unfortunately very long queues
August 2021
Lovely cafe, great food, drinks and ice creams - everything you need from a beach cafe
August 2021
Fantastic breakfast rolls
July 2021
Good food and cracking ice cream. Very reasonably priced.
July 2021
Good range of snacks/drinks. Plenty of seating overlooking beach. xx
July 2021
Had a lovely meal there, very friendly staff, perfect location.
July 2021
We love this cafe - great food - the mackerel brioche bap is a must :-) and excellent service. It was really well organised for the Covid-19 regulations, too. Please visit and support the team.
April 2021
not in operation during our stay
October 2020
Fab location and good food.
September 2020
Long queues due to only one queue for taking food orders and ice creams possibly due to current situation. Hotdogs lovely and large, used mainly for ice creams.
August 2020
all you need for a beach cafe
July 2020
Great service and good variety of daytime food & snacks. Temporary buildings a bit of a mess,Is it going to be improved / rebuilt
September 2019
Life's a Beach is in a lovely location. Unfortunately when we visited they had recently had a bad fire so it is closed.
June 2019
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Found in the small Cornish village of Porthallow, The Five Pilchards offers a great pub atmosphere and high quality homemade food available in the restaurant, conservatory and outside courtyard. All ingredients are sourced from local suppliers making it the ideal spot to sample the fabulous produce that Cornwall has to offer. The surrounding area is also a beautiful place for cliff walks with stunning views of Falmouth Bay.
The Five Pilchards Inn, Porthallow, Helston, Cornwall TR12 6PP (T: 01326 280256)
Up for sale
September 2023
nice local pub, good beer didn't try the food ourselves but pizzas looked nice
July 2023
This was a very friendly pub. We arrived mid May so it had limited opening hours but their takeaway pizza was delicious!
May 2023
Nice pub right on the beach. Not a very extensive menu and a bit limited if you are veggie and don’t eat fish. We had delicious fish and chips so on complaints from us
August 2022
Friendly and welcoming - enjoyed a tasty mid-week lunch
June 2022
Very friendly staff, good food at a reasonable price. Would advise booking at weekends
May 2022
Friendly, clean and welcoming. An honest Cornish pub, we would highly recommend.
September 2021
Good food and friendly staff
September 2021
Really enjoyed our fish and chip lunch outside in the sun!
September 2021
Good food and service
July 2021
Lovely pub right on the edge of the beach.
June 2021
Very friendly, unpretentious pub serving honest food & excellent ale & cider. Fully operating outside currently, due to extensive outdoor seating both in marquee & alongside beach. Ideally placed for weary Coastpath walkers!
April 2021
Lovely, friendly pub with fabulous food. We had two great meals here. Very good service
August 2020
We booked a table here on 4th July, the 1st day the pub had been open after lockdown. We received a friendly welcome and although it was a reduced menu there was a good choice. I enjoyed a bowl of local mussels which were delicious. We returned for another meal a different evening later in the week. The standard of food was excellent and presentation also. Would be a great place for overnight stay.
July 2020
Not presently open.
July 2019
At the moment the 5 pilchards are closed They are now operating out of the community center with a limited service but still good
July 2019
(5)
A scenic sweep of golden sand flanked by cliffs, this family friendly beach looks out across Falmouth Bay towards Pendennis Castle and the lighthouse at St Anthony Head. There’s plenty of sand and shallow water which is great for children and excellent facilities, including a cafe selling great food and beach equipment, plus toilets and car park. Maenporth is also a lovely spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard, both of which can be hired on the beach during summer months. Dogs allowed from October to Easter Sunday.
Fantastic beach
April 2024
Lovely and clean, beautiful.
October 2023
Absolutely loved Maenporth. Lovely sheltered beach with fantastic cafe
August 2023
Lovely beach but early morning dog owners do not on occasion clean up on their dogs. We had to borrow a shovel on two occasions to clear the mess
August 2023
If you think this will be a quiet, hidden gem then you’d couldn’t be more wrong. It’s a very busy, active beach with lots to do and changing tides. We felt very blessed to be staying so close so we didn’t have to arrive super early to get a car parking space. Loved how safe it felt most of time, except when the fog came rolling in as fast as a wave! Enjoyed paddling, swimming, rock-pooling, playing with local dogs (after hours), someone built an incredible pyramid sandcastle which the kids and adults enjoyed.
August 2023
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With its impressive crescent of sand, great amenities and Blue Flag status, it’s no wonder Gyllyngvase Beach is one of the most popular in the area. Found just south of Falmouth town centre this beach is ideal for families, and with its calm seas and gently sloping sand is a good spot for kayaking and paddleboarding too. Local company WESUP are based here offering wetsuit and equipment hire and SUP activities for all ages and abilities. And nearby is the acclaimed Gylly Beach Café with its sun terrace built out over the beach, fantastic views and a menu packed full of local seafood. There’s lifeguard cover from May to September, a large car park and public toilets. Dogs allowed from October to Easter Sunday.
Beach was very busy when we visited with long queues for food. We took the coastal path and things were much quieter. There were a lot of dog walkers enjoying the path and not all of them were cleaning up after their dogs.
September 2021
Lovely beach
September 2020
(5)
This pretty sand and pebble beach dotted with boats pulled up on the sand, and backed by whitewashed cottages, is one of our favourites. Kids can play, splash in the water or explore the rockpools exposed at low tide, or the more adventurous can hire a kayak, paddleboard or small boat to explore the estuary. Sit back in the 300 year old Ferry Boat Inn for lunch and a cool drink before perhaps taking the ferry across the water to Helford Village (operating in summer months only). Alternatively there are wonderful walks in both directions with fabulous views where you can spot a wealth of birdlife and sometimes seals. Back at the beach along with the pub there is a car park and toilets, ice cream kiosk and beach shop. Swimming is safe here but bathers should be aware of boats launching and general river traffic. Dogs allowed all year round.
Clean and convenient
April 2024
Helford Passage is a beautiful spot on the Helford river. Enjoy a drink on the Ferryboat Inn terrace looking at the wonderful view.
September 2023
Lovely spot on the river, no dogs allowed on the beach in summer but there' are some other beaches about 20 minutes walk away where they are allowed.
July 2023
Just glorious !
June 2023
Lovely to have this beach within a minutes walk which meant early morning, afternoon and evening swims
June 2023
(5)
A lovely sandy cove on the outskirts of Falmouth with lots of sand and clear water for swimming. If relaxing on the sand’s not your thing though, the beach backs onto Swanpool Nature Reserve where you can walk dogs on leads or feed the ducks and swans, and there’s also a beach cafe, kayak hire and 18 hole crazy golf course. Dogs allowed from October to Easter Sunday
A lovely beach but does get a bit crowded sometimes. Parking can be a problem in busy times too.
September 2021
Even in the middle of what has been one of the busiest summers cornwall has seen, this still offered space and attractions without the crowds. Loved being able to take the dog for a swim before 10am and after 6pm
September 2021
Lovely beach and costal walk
September 2020
Lovely beach, not fine sand but ideal for Kayaking and paddleboarding
August 2020
A lovely beach, plenty of parking, sheltered, 2 good cafe/ restaurants - whats not to like
August 2019
Found between Maenporth and Mawnan Smith, this is a small, pretty sandy beach with some shingle and rocks accessed by footpath from the road. It’s a five to ten minute walk, meaning the beach itself is often quiet and uncrowded with lovely swimming. No amenities though and the walk isn’t suitable for buggies or those with limited mobility. Also known as Woodlands Beach. Dogs allowed all year round.
There’s a thin arc of sand and shingle to flop on here at Falmouth’s most northerly beach, but that’s not the main attraction … at low tide a wide expanse of rock pools is exposed where kids and adults alike can spend hours discovering the watery pools packed with miniature sea life. Diving and snorkelling are popular here too, with plenty to see in the clear waters beyond the rocks. If you forget your bucket and net you can buy one at the beachside café, also serving drinks, ice creams and sandwiches that can be enjoyed on their large sundeck with lovely sea views. Keep an eye on the tide times though as at high tide the majority of the beach can be covered. There’s no lifeguard or car park, but plenty of parking along the road running parallel to the beach. Dogs allowed from October to Easter Sunday.
This is a real gem but quite tricky to access, so it’s not for everyone. Almost hidden on the southern banks of the Helford River, this idyllic sand and shingle cove is surrounded by thick woodland and is a fantastic spot to swim or sunbathe, often without another soul in sight. To get there either cut through the gardens of the Bosahan estate (summer months only, admission charges apply), bring a small boat or walk about a mile along the coast path from Helford Village. No amenities due to its location, dogs allowed all year round.
(1)
A quiet and secluded shingle beach on the Helford River in between the villages of Durgan and Mawnan. Access is via a short woodland walk from Durgan and then a steep path down to the beach, which means it’s rarely crowded and ideal if you prefer peace and quiet to cafes and facilities, of which there are none. The water is safe for swimming here and there are rocky outcrops to explore and jump off. It’s worth bearing in mind though that while there is a large beach at low water, with the highest tides it’s completely covered. Dogs welcome all year round.
This beach would probably be a problem for pushchairs but is a little more secluded. We met a lot of dog walkers.
September 2021
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Owned by the National Trust, the scattering of cottages that make up the tiny village of Durgan form a pretty backdrop to this sand and shingle beach. With stunning views in both directions over the Helford River, Durgan has strong boating links and there is a slipway running down to the beach and moorings offshore. This south facing beach is a peaceful place to relax on the sand and watch the boats go by while children play in the rockpools. If you forget your bucket, spade or net you can borrow one from the National Trust Fish Cellar building which also sells teas, coffee and ice creams during the summer months. Like many of the beaches along the Helford, Durgan Beach is almost entirely covered during the highest tides so keep an eye on the tide times. There is no parking in Durgan itself, however, there is a carpark on the main road and signposted path to the village and beach. Dogs welcome all year round.
We visited a couple of times. It was just as good as ever. National Trust staff could not man the shop on the beach during one visit so we really missed our ice cream treat on that occasion!
September 2021
A pretty sheltered cove in a secluded setting surrounded by low cliffs and woodland, Bream Cove consists of a sand and shingle beach dipping down to clear water with excellent swimming and snorkelling. At low water rock pools are exposed which children will love to explore and it’s possible to scramble over the rocks to the sandy beach next door at Gatamala Cove. There are no facilities here and no car park, but there are parking spaces on the nearby road between Maenporth and Rosemullion Head close to the Meuden Hotel, with access to the beach via footpath. Dogs welcome all year.
Prisk Cove beach can only be reached on foot, either from the village of Mawnan through a pretty wooded valley or via the South West Coast Path. Located just south of Rosemullion Head the beach consists mainly of shingle with a huge expanse of rockpools exposed at low tide. Parking at Mawnan Church or on the road, dogs welcome all year.
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A small sheltered pebble beach with lovely views where fishermen used to launch their boats in their hundreds. Today there are still a few working fishing boats pulled up on the shore and the unspoilt village has a popular pub, aptly named The Five Pilchards. Car parking literally on the beach so not far to carry all the kit, lots of rockpools exposed at low tide and great snorkeling just offshore.
Nothing special
September 2023
A very quiet beach. Great coastal walks with stunning views over the sea.
May 2023
Gorgeous beach and easy to get to the sea. Shale and rock beach but enough space for kids to enjoy themselves
August 2022
lovely quite pebble beach, pub right on the beach with public toilets
June 2021
A lovely sheltered beach of rocks and pebbles so no good for sandcastles etc. We visited regularly after 7 pm and not during the day and it was almost always deserted (Spring bank holiday week) Great to just watch the waves roll in and soak up the ambience.
June 2021
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A pretty fishing village with a large sandy beach ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and popular with windsurfers and sailors. The pretty harbour has a few cafes, shops and toilets and the beach is easily accessible from a small car park on the edge of the village . Dogs welcome all year.
Love.y beach, steep steps
September 2023
Absolutely beautiful and locals very friendly, only downfall drinks pricey.
July 2019
A small shingle beach at the heart of the unspoilt fishing village of Cadgwith with good diving and snorkelling. There’s toilets and a cafe along with a small car park. No dogs Easter Day to 1st October.
Owned by the National Trust, Kynance Cove is well known for its white sand, turquoise seas and spectacular rock stacks. As the tide goes out caves, islands and pools provide hours of entertainment for families. In peak season Kynance gets very busy with the car park full by mid morning so it’s worth arriving early. Small cafe and toilets available in summer months only.
Godrevy Cove is a lovely sandy beach over 300m in length and unlike other beaches in the area, there is still plenty of sand at high water. Access is via the Coast Path but it’s not a difficult walk, only about 500m from the hamlet of Rosenithon where you can leave the car on the road. There’s good swimming and snorkelling here, as well as rock pools at low tide and the beach is never crowded. You can also access next door Leggan Cove across the foreshore at low water, a similar but smaller and more sheltered beach.
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Porthcurno is located in the far West of Cornwall and has been described by many as a paradise and it’s not hard to see why. With its soft white sand beaches, turquoise sea which gleams in the summer sun and the high cliffs on either side of the beach providing shelter, it is described as an oasis of stunning natural beauty. On the west side of the beach is the famous Minack Theatre and to either side of the beach you will find coastal paths that provide the most breath-taking views. Dogs are welcome on the beach expect between 1 May and 30 September when a seasonal dog ban is in place. Parking can be found just behind the beach.
What a lovely beach. Golden/white sands. Beautiful clear waters. On a calm day great for paddle boarding, swimming and paddling. The beach does drop away quickly and gets deep. We have been when it is wavy too but feels safe with the lifeguards there during high season. Parking can get very busy so I suggest you get there early in the day if you want a space closer to the beach, there are some disabled bays. The spaces are small and if you have a big car I suggest you reverse in so it is easier to get out at the end of a busy day on the beach. There are 3 routes down to the beach. From the Minack which is steep and rocky with lovely views. A path from the car park which is a little uneven and down a slope. My mother managed to get her mobility scooter down this and the lovely Lifeguards let her leave it at the Lifeguard station. There are also some steps down to the beach at the Lifeguards hut.
August 2022
Absolutely wonderful. Try going when it's empty!
April 2022
Located just a short walk from the centre of St Ives, this award winning beach is a family favourite for swimming. Relax on the golden sandy shores and enjoy the glorious views across the bay to Godrevy Lighthouse. There is a car park overlooking the beach but it can get very busy. Dogs are welcome apart from the first Sunday before Easter and 30 September where a seasonal dog ban is in place.
Situated in the shadow of the Tate St Ives, Porthmeor beach is a safe, sandy beach popular for surfing. In the summer months the beach is busy as it’s easy access from the town centre, in the winter surfers enjoy the waves that they have right on their doorstep. Parking is difficult in the summer as many car parks get full early, try your luck or you can park at St Erth station car park and enjoy the scenic train ride into St Ives. Dogs are welcome except between Easter and 30 September when a seasonal dog ban is in place.
Carbis Bay is a northeast facing beach that rarely has any surf, making it an ideal spot for families and toddlers to paddle and swim in the calmer waters. At around a mile long, the golden sands of Carbis Bay are surrounded by sub-tropical plants and turquoise waters which might just have you thinking you’re somewhere much further south! Dogs are banned on the beach between Easter and 30 September.
With three miles of golden sand stretching from Hayle up the coast, this National Trust owned beach is the ultimate destination for beach goers. More exposed than others, this beach takes on much of the Atlantic swell but in the right weather conditions it can be a great surfing spot with waves getting up to 8ft. The car park is free to National Trust members and dogs are welcome expect between 1 May and 30 September from 8am-7pm when a seasonal dog ban is in place between Red River and lighthouse.
Found at the mouth of the Hayle estuary, just two miles from the town of St Ives is a vast expansion of sands which can stretch up to a mile out to sea at low tide. The beach is backed by sand dunes and the West Cornwall Golf Club. There is life guard cover in the summer and the beach is dog friendly all year.
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Just opposite the famous landmark of St Michael’s Mount lies Marazion Beach. Relax and take in the atmosphere in the Cornish sunshine, walk to St Michael’s Mount at low tide along the granite causeway, watch kite surfers zoom up and down the length of the beach or try out paddle boarding or sailing. With many rock pools to explore and facilities for sailing and windsurfing lessons there is always something to do on Marazion beach. Dogs are welcome expect between 1 May and end of September when a seasonal dog ban is in place.
Visited three times in early March, ideal parking on seafront, beautiful views, level walking, plenty going on including kite surfing and wind surfing. Jordans take away excellent. Public toilets nearby.
March 2022
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Mousehole is a delightful village. Beautiful scenery and walks, with some interesting shops and places to eat and drink. We ate very well at The Mousehole Deli and Kitchen on the seafront, which has an interesting menu, good coffee, and lovely staff. Bought great gifts at the weekly Craft Market too. Parking in Mousehole is quite limited!
November 2023
absolutely lovely fishing village, well worth a walk round, so relaxing having a walk around here !!
September 2023
We loved Mousehole! It has real character and we could walk there from our cottage. We swam there twice and the water was wonderful. We also enjoyed pasties, coffee and cake in the village. We would definitely go back there again.
September 2023
Beautiful, quaint Mousehole, one of our favourite places. Had a lovely stroll around the harbour and village and visited most of the gift shops. Sat for a while in the lovely harbour, so peaceful and quiet.
July 2023
This beach is not dog friendly at any time
August 2022
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lovely little cove, but watch out for the Parking rules !!
September 2023
Walked to Lamorna Cove from Castallack - it was a very nice walk on a lovely and sunny Sunday morning. The cove was very quiet and peaceful, not many visitors around. We sat and enjoyed the view and had an ice-cream from the local cafe; the staff in the cafe were so friendly and very helpful, nothing was too much trouble.
July 2023
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AQ wonderful beach with a steep climb down. A very good car park attached to the farm. There are delicious jars of pickles, jam amd cakes available from the pay hut.
May 2022
A gem of a cove on the eastern side of Lizard Point where a few pretty cottages lead to a steep slipway still used to launch fishing boats. Although there’s only a small patch of sand at low tide, the water is crystal clear making it great for snorkelling and swimming or the simple pleasures of sitting in the sunshine on the rocks enjoying a picnic. There is a small free carpark half a mile up the road in Landwednack.
Owned by the National Trust Gunwalloe is a gorgeous little cove with a good sized stretch of sand back by dunes with a historic church tucked away at the northern end. The beach can be quite exposed to Atlantic swells meaning there are surfable waves here but swimming out of season is less safe. However in the summer there is a lifeguard service making it good family beach.
A lovely unspoilt beach next door to Gunwalloe named after the silver dollars that were found here when the Spanish galleon the San Salvador was deliberately wrecked just offshore in 1669. Even if you can’t find any treasure today, Dollar Cove is still a gem of a beach for sunbathing, swimming can be good too if you stay close to shore but there are no lifeguards and it can get rough.
Also known as Black Pool Cove this is a family friendly beach with plenty of sand, volleyball, rockpools and a café for refreshments. Great for surfing and swimming with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. No dogs between 1st July – 31st August.