Polly's Bower

Polly's Bower is a 1-bedroom cottage at Lantallack House near Notter and Saltash, sleeping 2 in a king-size bedroom with en-suite bathroom. The open-plan living space has an open fire, and the cottage comes with access to a shared heated outdoor swimming pool on the estate grounds. A BBQ and garden are also available for guests.

Practical inclusions are substantial for the size: bathrobes, slippers, a premium coffee machine, dishwasher, washing machine, and Wi-Fi. Parking is provided. The estate setting near Lantallack House gives the property a degree of seclusion that self-catering in a village does not.

For beaches, Downderry is 7.9km southeast and Whitsand Bay 9.1km - both require a drive. Whitsand Bay is a long stretch of sand facing southwest, better for walking and swimming than surf. Downderry is a quieter village beach with good swimming at low tide. Plaidy Beach is 11.3km. The distances mean this is not a property where you walk to the sea; it functions more as a rural retreat with pool access and a short drive to the coast.

Saltash is 5km north, with a Waitrose and reasonable restaurants. Plymouth is across the Tamar Bridge - 30 minutes by road - for larger supermarkets, cinema, and the ferry to France.

Works for: couples wanting a quiet rural stay with access to a heated pool, rather than a beach-focused holiday. The pool makes it viable in May and September when sea temperatures are low. Less good for guests who want to be within walking distance of the coast or a village. Not suitable for dogs or children.

Rated 5/5 on Sykes from 73 reviews. Friday changeover.