Types of Holiday Accommodation in Cornwall – Pros, Cons & What To Expect
Cornwall has one of the widest ranges of holiday accommodation in the UK. Whether you want sea views and spa luxury, total countryside peace, or a family-friendly park packed with things to do, choosing the right type of stay makes a huge difference.
Below is a simple, honest guide to the main accommodation types you’ll find across Cornwall, with clear pros and cons around cost, comfort, location and the overall holiday vibe.
???? Holiday Cottages
For many people, a Cornish cottage is the dream: character, fireplaces, village lanes, and the feeling you’re staying in a real slice of Cornwall—often in fantastic locations near beaches, harbours, or coastal paths.
Pros
- Full of charm and “Cornwall character” (stone walls, beams, fireplaces)
- Often in prime locations: coastal villages, harbours, countryside hideaways
- Great for families and groups who want one shared base
- Self-catering freedom (your own kitchen, your own schedule)
Cons
- If not maintained well, older cottages can feel damp or musty
- Some can feel tired if décor/renovations haven’t been updated for years
- Parking can be tricky in historic towns and tight village streets
- Minimum stays can be longer in peak seasons (often 3–7 nights)
Tip: for older cottages, read recent reviews and look for mentions of heating, ventilation and dehumidifiers. Independent reviews can be checked via Google reviews or Trustpilot.
???? Modern Static Caravans
Caravans aren’t what they used to be. Many newer models come with central heating, double glazing, proper bathrooms and modern kitchens—warming up fast even in cooler months.
Pros
- Usually excellent value compared with cottages and hotels
- Newer units heat up quickly and stay warm
- Often close to beaches and family attractions
- Simple, easy holiday living (park up, settle in, go explore)
Cons
- Internal space can be smaller than a cottage or lodge
- Older caravans may feel dated (or have weaker insulation)
- Less privacy in busier parks
???? Lodges & Luxury Retreats
Lodges are ideal if you want a modern, comfortable base—often with big windows, decking, and a “switch off” atmosphere. They’re great for couples, families, and anyone who prefers space and peace over entertainment.
Pros
- Modern layouts and facilities (often the newest-feeling accommodation type)
- More space than many caravans, with a “proper home” feel
- Great for relaxing breaks: countryside views, outdoor space, quiet nights
- Often pet-friendly
Cons
- Commonly a little more inland, so you may drive to beaches/towns
- Peak season can be pricier, especially for high-spec lodges
If you want Cornwall without crowds, small nature-focused places are perfect: quiet, relaxing, sun-facing decking, no-one overlooking you, and the sounds of birds and countryside. The flip side is fewer on-site extras like pubs, nightlife, or entertainment.
For broader Cornwall inspiration and local guidance, see Visit Cornwall.
???? Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)
B&Bs are brilliant for flexible breaks—especially if you want to stay one night, move around Cornwall, or avoid minimum-stay rules common with self-catering.
Pros
- Often available for one-night stays (ideal for touring)
- Breakfast included (great value and convenience)
- Local hosts can give fantastic recommendations
Cons
- Less privacy than self-catering
- Quality varies a lot with family-run properties
- Fixed routines (breakfast times / access times)
Always check recent reviews before booking: Google reviews, Trustpilot and major booking platforms can help you spot patterns.
???? Hotels (Boutique to Big Resorts)
Cornwall has everything from boutique harbour-side hotels to large resorts with spas, pools and bars—especially in popular coastal towns.
Pros
- Convenience: made beds, housekeeping, on-site dining
- Resort-style extras: spas, pools, bars, sea-view terraces
- Great for couples’ breaks and short stays
Cons
- No private garden (and less “own space” than self-catering)
- Not always ideal for extended family holidays sharing one building
- Can be expensive overall, especially with meals and extras
If you’re choosing a hotel for facilities, check what’s included vs paid extras before booking. For official tourism info and seasonal guidance, see VisitBritain.
⛺ Yurts & Bell Tents (Glamping)
Glamping gives you the “outdoorsy Cornwall” feeling with extra comfort. Yurts and bell tents can be quite similar, but the warmth and comfort depend heavily on the site setup.
Pros
- Fun and memorable — a proper holiday experience
- Closer to nature than hotels and cottages
- Often eco-focused and peaceful
Cons
- Heating and insulation vary (often best for spring/summer)
- Facilities may be shared depending on the site
- More weather-dependent than solid accommodation
???? Cabins
Cabins can be a lovely, simple escape—often wooden, cosy, and tucked into quiet corners. But they vary hugely, so it’s worth checking what’s included (especially heating).
Pros
- Cosy vibe and often set in nature
- Usually cheaper than cottages and hotels
- Great for short breaks and simple stays
Cons
- Some cabins have limited heating (or none), so not ideal in winter
- Can be compact, with less storage and smaller bathrooms
- Facilities vary widely by site
???? Chalets
Chalets are often smaller, simple bases—sometimes perfect for couples or budget breaks. They can be great value, but comfort depends on age and heating.
Pros
- Often one of the cheapest “solid-roof” options
- Simple and practical for short stays
- Good choice if you’re out exploring all day
Cons
- Can be small (often best for 2 people)
- Heating may be basic (electric heaters at best in some)
- May not be comfortable in colder months
???? Camping (With a Tent)
Camping is the classic Cornwall adventure: fresh air, sea swims, sunsets, and waking up close to the coast or countryside. It can be amazing—if you’re happy to plan around weather.
Pros
- Usually the most affordable option
- Brilliant for nature lovers
- Huge choice of campsites across Cornwall
Cons
- Weather dependent (wind and rain can change plans fast)
- Requires equipment and a bit more effort
- Comfort levels vary by campsite and facilities
For camping guidance and site standards, see Camping and Caravanning Club.
???? Campervans (Touring Cornwall)
Campervans are perfect if you want freedom—waking up in different areas and chasing the best beaches and sunsets. They’re great for flexible itineraries and spontaneous trips.
Pros
- Freedom to explore multiple areas without changing accommodation
- Often cheaper than hotels for multi-stop trips
- Ideal for scenic touring holidays
Cons
- Parking and access can be tricky on narrow Cornish lanes
- Some places have restrictions—plan overnight stops carefully
- Comfort depends on van spec, heating and facilities
If you’re touring, always check local guidance and site rules before you arrive. Official tourism guidance can be found via Visit Cornwall.
✨ Quirky Stays (Cornish Tin Mines & Unusual Conversions)
If you want a stay you’ll talk about for years, Cornwall has some truly unusual options—historic conversions, rare property types, and unique places that feel like part of the landscape and history.
Pros
- Unique, memorable, “once in a lifetime” feel
- Often linked to Cornwall’s history and heritage
- Great for special occasions and content-worthy stays
Cons
- Layouts can be unconventional (stairs, low ceilings, odd room shapes)
- Facilities vary—read listings carefully
- Some are remote, so you’ll likely drive for shops and restaurants
If you’re interested in Cornwall’s mining heritage (and the landscapes that came with it), take a look at English Heritage for broader background and historic context.
???? Large Holiday Parks (Entertainment & Facilities)
Holiday parks are the “everything on-site” option—great if you want pools, bars, kids clubs, entertainment and a lively atmosphere. They’re basically the opposite of a quiet countryside retreat.
Pros
- Loads of on-site entertainment: pools, activities, shows, bars
- Brilliant for families who want everything in one place
- Social atmosphere and lots happening day and night
Cons
- Busier, noisier, and less private
- Can feel crowded in peak season
- Less “Cornwall peace and nature” compared with small retreats
