Cynefin Roundhouse, East Thorne

Cynefin is a one-bedroom roundhouse lodge at East Thorne - a small rural complex of six circular lodges set in farmland near Bude, sleeping two adults. It is one of the more architecturally distinct self-catering options in north Cornwall: a full-width circular roof light sits directly overhead, tracking the sky through the day and drawing light into the combined living and sleeping area throughout the year.

The interior fits a king-size bed and a leather sofa with brass accents. A separate bathroom holds a roll-top bath - functional rather than theatrical, but a proper bath in a lodge this size is worth noting. Outside, a private hot tub and BBQ occupy an enclosed garden. The lodge is well-separated from the other five units on the East Thorne site, keeping the rural setting genuinely quiet. Priced from £378 per night.

Sandymouth beach - a National Trust-managed cove with no facilities, no cars on the sand, and a steep clifftop path down - sits 3.6 miles away. Northcott Mouth and Duckpool are both under 4 miles. Bude itself, with its canal, surf hire on Summerleaze Beach, and a handful of decent restaurants, is around 5 miles south via the A39.

Best for couples wanting two or three nights away from everything, with a hot tub and no expectation of beach proximity or evening entertainment. Less good for anyone who needs sea views, more than 2 sleeping spaces, or easy walking access to a town or village.