The Beach Lodge

The Beach Lodge is a three-bedroom lodge at Porthpean on the south Cornwall coast, converted from the former gate lodge to Porthpean House. It sleeps six across a double, twin and bunk bedroom, and rates a perfect 10 from three guest reviews. Dogs are welcome and private parking is included.

Inside, the lodge has two bathrooms and an open-plan living space that keeps period features from the original building alongside updated interiors. A dishwasher, washing machine and wifi are included. The ground floor is step-free.

The sandy, sheltered beach at Porthpean is a short walk down the hill. From the shore, the South West Coast Path runs one mile east along the cliff to Charlestown - an 18th-century working harbour that retains its original Georgian dock and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Charlestown has pubs, restaurants, cafes and a playground. St Austell is 10 minutes by car for supermarkets and further services.

The Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are each within a 15-minute drive. Mevagissey sits 5 miles away and Fowey 8 miles, both worth a half-day. For families, the Pentewan Trail - a traffic-free cycling route through St Austell - starts at Pentewan, 2 miles south, with bike hire at the village.

Best for families or groups wanting beach access, coast path walks and easy access to south Cornwall's big attractions. Less good for those hoping to avoid summer crowds - Charlestown and Mevagissey get very busy in July and August.