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
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
No 5 The Long Store, Padstow
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
Atlantic View, Portreath
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
Cove Cottage, Sennen
Be close to Sennen Cove’s sheltered harbour, a popular spot for wild swimmers, at Cove Cottage.
At a glance
Three bedrooms, one bathroom
Beautiful sea views
Cosy exposed stone walls
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.
