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. At from GBP399 per night via Luxury Coastal, it sits at the upper end of the St Ives market - the location justifies it.

Inside, the kitchen is fully equipped with a dishwasher and washing machine. A private courtyard garden gives the cottage breathing space that many Downalong properties lack. The property comes with a dedicated parking space - a significant practical benefit in a town where day visitors and residents compete for every space on the hill above.

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. Less good for: guests on a budget - nightly pricing means a week adds up fast compared to weekly-rate cottages nearby.