26 Church Lane

26 Church Lane is a two-bedroom cottage on a side street in Padstow, less than half a mile from the working harbour on foot. The harbour front is lined with seafood restaurants, including several associated with Rick Stein, whose fish and chip shop and bistros draw visitors from across Cornwall. A king bedroom and a twin room sleep 4, with an additional ground-floor snug fitted out as a second sitting area and large enough for an extra couple when needed.

Outside, tiered patio gardens rise from the kitchen door to an upper sundeck with a BBQ and outdoor dining furniture - practical for warm evenings and self-catered meals. The house is rated 4.0 from 8 reviews on HolidayCottages, with a 5-star score for location.

Trevone Bay, a sheltered sandy cove with a rock pool, and Daymer Bay on the Camel Estuary, popular with windsurfers and swimmers, are both 2.5km away. Greenaway Beach adds a third option 3.1km out. The Camel Trail, a flat off-road cycle path, runs along the estuary from Padstow to Wadebridge and beyond - bikes can be hired in town.

Best for couples or a family of 4 who want a Padstow base within walking distance of restaurants and the harbour, with outdoor space for summer evenings. Works for dog owners. Not great for those who need beach access without a car - the nearest beaches require driving or cycling.