Gwithian Shepherds Hut

A one-bedroom shepherds hut near Angarrack, sitting between Hayle and Redruth in west Cornwall. The hut sleeps 2 in a double, with one bathroom and a private garden. On a clear evening the glow from St Ives is visible from the site, 15 minutes west by car.

Inside, the hut is compact and well-finished for two. An open fire takes the edge off shoulder-season evenings. The kitchen area has an electric two-ring hob, fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave, and the shower room has a heated towel rail. Bed linen and towels are included in the rent. WiFi and off-road parking are included. Changeover day is Friday.

Gwithian Towans beach is 2.5 miles north - a long Atlantic-facing stretch of dune-backed sand where the Red River meets the sea. Kiteboarders work the wide beach when the wind picks up, and the National Trust-managed Godrevy headland, with the lighthouse that inspired Virginia Woolf's novel, sits at the far end. Porthkidney Beach is also 2.5 miles away. Hayle town centre, with its cafes and supermarket, is a short drive.

Best for couples after a quiet rural retreat with easy access to the west Cornwall coast and St Ives. Less good for anyone who needs space or a full kitchen for a longer stay.