Beach Base Lodge, Padstow Cornwall

Beach Base Lodge is a two-bedroom holiday lodge at St Merryn Park, a 20 by 40 foot build with an ensuite master bedroom, a walk-in wardrobe, and a second bathroom with a bath and shower. St Merryn village is under a mile away and Padstow 2.5 miles further, with Rick Stein's Deli and Seafood Restaurant on the harbour there. The lodge holds a 9.3 rating from 48 Booking.com reviews, with a perfect 10 for comfort and 9.9 for value.

The park has tennis courts, a children's playground, a bar, a shop and two restaurants, plus off-road parking for two vehicles. Inside, a dishwasher and washing machine sit in the kitchen, a smart TV and DVD player furnish the lounge, and the layout is wheelchair accessible. Pets are not allowed, and it is a no-smoking, no-party property.

Treyarnon Bay and Harlyn Bay are both 2.1 miles from the lodge, and Polzeath's surfing beach lies across the Camel estuary near Rock. The Camel Trail runs from St Merryn towards the Camel Valley Vineyard for walking or cycling, and the Eden Project is around 40 minutes by car.

Best for couples or a small family wanting an accessible, self-contained base near several beaches. Less good for anyone travelling with a dog, since pets are not permitted.