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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.

https://cdn.toadhallcottages.co.uk/5202/1FBACAD534F34327B7C4F13F5BCE5169/img/2AF48BB7773F475A89F17DA5741257B2/Helford_boats.jpg

Holidays in West Cornwall

All you need to know

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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.

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About West Cornwall

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.


Locations to visit
Things to do
Food & drink
Beaches

Things To Do In West Cornwall

Pendennis Castle

(1)

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.

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a wet and windy trip but a good castle to explore

November 2019


National Maritime Museum

(3)

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

 

 

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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


Glendurgan Garden

(6)

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)

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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


Mawnan Craft Centre

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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Helford River Cruises

(2)

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)

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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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