Cornwall, or Kernow as the locals call it, is located right on the southwestern tip of England. Beautiful beaches, picturesque harbours and 300 miles of rugged Atlantic coastline are a familiar sight. Idyllic coves, quaint villages and a superb choice of restaurants await, making Cornwall an attractive place to stay for couples. Seeking a romantic getaway in the UK? Stroll hand in hand as you walk across sandy beaches. Head over to Lands End, mainland Britain’s most south-westerly point, for breathtaking Atlantic ocean views as far as the eye can see. Delve into some of England’s finest seafood in excellent Cornish restaurants. Ramble across the South West Coast Path and keep a lookout for wildlife. Whether you want surfing in Newquay, fishing in St Ives or fine dining in Padstow, there are plenty of things to see and do in Cornwall.
In need of our recommendations for where to stay in Cornwall for couples? Here at Plum Guide we’ve selected some of Cornwall’s best neighbourhoods. The best vacation rentals in Cornwall, perfect for couples, have been handpicked by our expert home critics. Your romantic Cornish escape awaits (post lockdown, of course). So wihout further ado, here is our take on the most romantic places in Cornwall.
Penzance
Boats at the bottom of a tall hill with large white houses on by the sea in summer, Penzance, Cornwall, England, UK
At the heart of West Cornwall, Penzance is a delightful market town brimming with shops, restaurants and beaches. No wonder, then, that this is one of the best places to stay in Cornwall, and a great option when wondering where to stay in cornwall for couples. Once a small fishing village, Penzance is now a popular seaside resort and was recently named ‘the greatest town in the UK’ at the annual 2020 Urbanism Awards (who knew?). Great Western Railways provide frequent train services between Penzance and St Ives, so access between the two couldn’t be easier. Facing the tidal island of St Michael’s Mount, which is a tourist destination in its own right, Penzance is also home to the only promenade in Cornwall. The unusual Egyptian House, a Grade I listed building from 1835, is worth a visit, or take a wander along Marazion Beach. If you’re able to brave the salty sea water, take a dip in Jubilee Pool, one of the few remaining Art Deco Lido’s in the country.
Wagon Wheel, Plum Guide home in Cornwall, UK
2 Bedrooms | Sleeps 4 | 1 Bathroom
Key highlights:
Soak in the jacuzzi on cool Cornish nights
Dine at the restaurant while kids enjoy the playground
Drive just moments to the impressive Cornish coast
St Ives
A brick building on a sandy beach overlooking small rocks and people sitting by the blue sea in summer, St Ives, Cornwall, England, UK
A former fishing village and one of the regions’s most visited resorts, St Ives often wins where to stay in Cornwall for couples. Its cobbled streets and sea front location make it a great choice for a romantic getaway. Situated north of Penzance, the foodies amongst you will adore its eclectic gastro scene. You’ll find seafood restaurants and bistro pubs showcasing delicious seasonal bites to tantalise your tastebuds. Unleash your inner child at the harbourfront amusement arcade, or chomp on creamy Cornish fudge whilst overlooking the sea. The famous Tate Gallery is just a stone's throw away from St Ives Harbour Beach, as is one of the oldest inns in Cornwall, The Sloop. Built in the 1300s and perched right on the Wharf with magnificent harbour views, be sure to tick this historic inn off your Cornish bucket list.
Ivory Peak, Plum Guide home in Cornwall, UK
2 Bedrooms | Sleeps 4 | 2 Bathrooms
Key highlights:
Sip your morning coffee on one of the two balconies
Dine with a view of the bay
Explore St Ives' beaches and cultural offerings on foot
Padstow
Boats docked on calm water in front of different shops and green trees at Padstow Harbour in summer, Cornwall, England, UK
Northern Cornwall’s top foodie destination, the quaint harbour town of Padstow has become something of a culinary sensation in recent years. Who do we have to thank for that? Celebrity chefs of course. A host of them have opened up their own eateries, most notably Rick Stein with The Seafood Restaurant, which we recommend you visit. Aside from fine dining, Padstow also runs plenty of events and festivals, making it an ideal place to stay in Cornwall for couples. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you and your beloved can follow the South West Coast Path to enjoy scenic walks. Prefer to plonk yourself down with a good book and a sea view? Simply pick one of the seven nearby golden beaches to while away the hours, with or without your partner. Padstow is even home to a one of many dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall, so your furry friend doesn't have to miss out on a holiday.
Sea Kelp, Plum Guide home in Cornwall, UK
3 Bedrooms | Sleeps 6 | 1 Bathroom
Key highlights:
Sip wine alfresco on the back patio
Admire the original fireplaces and features throughout
Stay in the pretty harbour town of Padstow
St Minver Lowlands
Close up of footprints in the wet sand on a beach in St Minver Lowlands, Cornwall, England, UK
Bounded by the Camel Estuary and made up of a cluster of small parish villages including Rock, Polzeath and Trebetherick, the St Minver Lowlands offer tranquil places to stay in Cornwall. A little less busy than some of the other Cornish neighbourhoods we’ve mentioned here, Polzeath is surely one of our favourites. It’s a secluded spot which boasts pretty beaches and excellent surfing opportunities. Rock, right on the Camel Estuary, is also worth a visit if you’re into watersports or golfing. Both of these charming villages are great choices for unfriendly couples who fancy a break away from the crowds.
Rich Earth, Plum Guide home in Cornwall, UK
3 Bedrooms | Sleeps 7 | 2 Bathrooms
Key highlights:
Stroll down to the beach for soft sand and coastal views
Make the most of the large garden and patio
Cook an al fresco meal on the barbecue
St Minver Highlands
Green grass on a cliff overlooking waves crashing into rocks in the sea on a sunny day, St Minver Highlands, Cornwall, England, UK
Backing onto Bodmin Moor, one of Cornwall's designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the St Minver Highlands are less well known than some of the parishes that make up the St Minver Lowlands. Our picks include St Minver, New Polzeath and The Rumps. Never heard of them before? Don’t fret; these tiny villages are perfect for couples seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of Cornwall’s lively tourist traps. The Rumps are our favourite: basaltic rock in the shape of twin-headland points at the corner of Pentire Head. Happy to drive a little further afield? The likes of Tintagel Castle and the Eden Project are just 30-40 minutes away, if you want to sightsee.
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