Villa Gallery 15

Villa Gallery 15 is a two-bedroom cottage in Carnon Downs, a village 3 miles south of Truro on the A39, sleeping four across two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property is part of a small development - the shared pool and garden set it apart from most similarly priced cottages in central Cornwall, where pools are rare at this price point.

The interior has vaulted ceilings and a reverse layout, with the kitchen and dining area on the upper floor to take advantage of the aspect. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms serve four guests without the usual compromises. Dogs are not permitted and there is no sea view.

Carnon Downs sits at a genuinely useful midpoint. Trelissick Garden - National Trust, with woodland walks and Fal estuary views - is under 2 miles away. The Pandora Inn at Restronguet Creek, a 13th-century waterside pub, is under 10 minutes by car. Falmouth is 8 miles south, with Gyllyngvase Beach at 9.3km the nearest sand. Truro's mainline station is 10 minutes north.

Best for couples or families who want a central base for exploring both sides of the Fal without the prices of Falmouth proper. Less suited to those prioritising beach proximity - every beach here requires a drive of at least 15 minutes.