Tom Thumb

Tom Thumb is a one-bedroom converted cottage for two in Mabe, a village a few miles outside Falmouth in south Cornwall. Part of the Trenoweth Vean row - three former farm buildings converted alongside Lilliput and Thumbelina - it occupies an elevated rural position with countryside views and dog-friendly access throughout. Changeover is on Saturdays.

The traditionally furnished layout covers one bedroom, one bathroom, a kitchen, and a living room - compact but well-suited to a couple. Double glazing makes it viable year-round. Wifi, a dishwasher and a washing machine are included. Carpeted stairs lead up to the first-floor bedroom. A low-walled patio garden sits at the front; the rear has a shared lawned garden and drying area, with one parking space per cottage.

Mabe village is about half a mile away with a post office store and a pub serving food. The beaches of Falmouth - Gyllyngvase, Swanpool, and Maenporth - sit roughly 5 miles away by car. Falmouth itself is a 10-minute drive for the National Maritime Museum, Pendennis Castle, and the town's restaurants. Argal Reservoir is a short drive for lakeside walks, and the Helford River gardens - Trebah and Glendurgan - are within 15 minutes for those after a half-day out.

**Best for:** couples or dog-owners wanting a rural Cornish base with easy access to Falmouth and the Helford without the town's parking headaches. **Less good for:** anyone relying on public transport (the village has limited services), or groups of more than 2 given the single bedroom.