Bolts Quarry Cottage

Bolts Quarry Cottage sits in Charlestown, 200 metres from the beach and the Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre that holds Europe's largest collection of original diving equipment. The tall ships harbour - a UNESCO-listed industrial port used regularly as a film location - is visible from the village lanes. A wood burner and private garden add warmth to the compact interior, available from £339 per week.

Carlyon Bay, the longest sandy stretch on this part of the south coast, is 900 metres east along the coastal path. Porthpean Beach, a sheltered inlet with calm water, is 1.2 kilometres further. Both are reachable on foot, so a car is not essential for beach days.

The Eden Project is around 6 kilometres north through St Austell. Cycle hire is available locally, and the Pentewan Valley Trail - a surfaced path running through woodland to Mevagissey - connects from St Austell town centre nearby.

Good for couples or small groups who want a quiet coastal base within walking distance of several beaches and within easy reach of mid-Cornwall's main visitor attractions. Not well suited to guests who need WiFi or a washing machine, as neither is listed at this property.

Charlestown Beach itself is 200 metres from the cottage - a narrow strip of sand below the historic harbour walls, used by swimmers and kayakers on calmer days. The wood burner is a practical asset in this part of Cornwall, where sea mist off the bay can bring cool evenings even in July. Parking is included, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are around 8 kilometres south through Mevagissey, making a half-day excursion without needing to join the main A30 corridor.