The Chapel Guest House

The Chapel Guest House occupies a former Methodist chapel built in 1862 in the hamlet of Carthew, just north of St Austell. Large arched granite windows with coloured glass survive at the front, along with original trusses and keystones through the building.

Five en-suite guest rooms come with WiFi, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer and tea and coffee facilities. Free on-site parking covers one car per room, though campervans, pickups and commercial vehicles aren't permitted. Breakfast is served at 8:30am or 9am, with gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian options available on request. An outside seating area with a bar operates from 5pm to 8pm, June to September.

The Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are both within a short drive, and Charlestown Beach is 3.4 miles away, the same distance as Carlyon Bay. Mevagissey, Fowey and Charlestown village are all worth the trip. The Sawles Arms pub is a five-minute walk from the guest house. Rated 9.4 from 267 Booking.com reviews, with 9.9 for staff and 9.8 for comfort.

Best for a quiet countryside base for exploring the Eden Project and the south coast villages. Less good for anyone wanting to walk to a beach, since the nearest is a drive away.