Shell Cottage

Shell Cottage sits in Hicks Court on the edge of The Digey, one of St Ives's narrow cobbled lanes in the historic Downalong quarter. The cottage sleeps four across two bedrooms and welcomes dogs.

Inside, the kitchen is fully equipped with a dishwasher and washing machine. Both bedrooms are on the first floor: one has a double bed, the other a king-size that can be split into twins on request. A private courtyard garden gives the cottage breathing space that many Downalong properties lack. The property comes with a secure parking space for one car at a St Ives car park 1.5 miles away, about 9 minutes by car - a significant practical benefit in a town where day visitors and residents compete for every space on the hill above. You can drive down the Digey to unload luggage, though it is very narrow in places.

Porthmeor Beach is 200m away - St Ives's main surf beach, facing north-west with reliable waves and a cafe above the dunes. St Ives Harbour Beach is the same distance in the other direction, calmer and better for children. The Tate St Ives gallery sits directly above Porthmeor; the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden is a 5-minute walk through the lanes. For food, Porthminster Beach Cafe - a 400m walk - takes bookings and is one of the best-regarded seafood restaurants in Cornwall.

Best for: couples or small families wanting a central St Ives base with a dog and a parking space.