The Harbourside Edit

Wild, blustery coastal walks and storm watching are often seen as classic winter activities here in Cornwall.  And while we’re all for revitalising time spent out in the elements, during Secret Season (the cooler, quieter months by the coast) there’s also plenty of opportunity to seek shelter, calm and feelings of Klys – the Cornish word for cosy and snug.

Cornish harbours are the place for this – their high walls are designed to keep out the lively waves and strong winds, protecting the boats moored inside. Plus, there’s something therapeutic about watching the day-to-day activities of a working harbour – fishermen coming back in early morning to anchor their boat and head inland for a well-deserved rest after a night out to sea, gulls perched on the harbour walls, and seals swimming around in hope of a fish supper.

Around these harbours, you’ll often find pubs, eateries and of course, places to stay, which make the most of the cosy coastal calm that harbours inspire during the winter months. Here’s just a few of our harbourside retreats where you can seek shelter this Secret Season.

The Mouse House, Mousehole

Kitchen with a sea view in Mousehole

Gaze out across Mousehole harbour all the way towards St. Michael’s Mount at The Mouse House, an elegant retreat in the heart of this fishing village.

At a glance

Four bedrooms, three bathrooms

Stunning sea and harbour views

A landscaped garden with a sun lounger deck

Harbourside inspiration

  • Tuck into pastries and coffee in one of Mousehole’s tiny delis
  • Create artwork inspired by the picture-perfect views
  • Dip in Mousehole’s tidal pool

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No 5 The Long Store, Padstow

No 5 The Long Store

Watch the estuary water from your balcony at No 5 The Long Store, a chic and calming sanctuary just seconds from the famous Padstow harbour.

At a glance

Two bedrooms, two bathrooms

Sophisticated and neutral décor

Views of the estuary and harbour

Harbourside inspiration

  • Catch the ferry from Padstow harbour across to Rock
  • Enjoy a drink in the Old Custom House, Padstow’s harbourside pub
  • Try the Rick Stein experience with a range of Steins eateries around the town

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Atlantic View, Portreath

Sea view bedroom at a property

Snuggle up in Atlantic View, a bright and airy retreat on the cliffside overlooking the charming Portreath harbour.

At a glance

Four bedrooms, three bathrooms

Stylish and homely design

Warming fireplace

Harbourside inspiration

  • Enjoy a drink in The Portreath Arms, loved by locals
  • Dine at Atlantic Cafe with a sea view
  • Bring the dog and enjoy a coastal walk
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Sea Salt, Sennen

Sea Salt Sennen

Be close to Sennen Cove’s sheltered harbour, a popular spot for wild swimmers, at Sea Salt Sennen.

At a glance

Three bedrooms, three bathrooms

Beautiful sea views

Cosy living area to watch the waves from

Harbourside inspiration

  • Admire local art at The Roundhouse & Capstan art gallery, seconds away.
  • Tuck into Sennen Cove’s famous fish and chips on the harbour wall.
  • Head to the main beach for a bodyboarding or surfing session.

See all Sennen retreats

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