Coastal holiday cottages in the South West

There's nowhere better for a coastal holiday than the South West of England. From beautiful beaches in Devon to the rugged coastline of Cornwall, from the limitless moors of Somerset to Dorset's world-famous Jurassic Coast, there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a fun-packed family holiday or a romantic break. Pack up a BBQ, lay down a blanket on the sand dunes and watch the sun set into rolling waves.

Once you stand on that cliff top and breathe in the salty sea air, it's hard to imagine wanting to be anywhere else other than the Devon coastline. Take your time exploring the shoreline as you decide which coastal hotspot you want to visit next. Will it be Salcombe in South Devon, the sailing capital of the county, famed for its gin production and secluded coves in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?

Or perhaps you'll head to North Devon and stop off in Croyde, where you'll find some of England's best surfing conditions. Just around the corner is Putsborough Sands, where half of the entire beach is dog-friendly and has no restrictions. Slow the pace down and stop by Appledore, renowned for its shipbuilding and maritime heritage. Amble through its pretty cobbled streets or try your hand at crabbing, whilst looking out over the estuary at neighbouring village Instow.

Set apart from the rest of the country, Cornwall is a land unto itself. A peninsula of craggy coastline and rugged countryside, this pirate-laden county is full of English Heritage properties, National Trust parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cornwall is studded with beaches you wouldn't believe belong in the UK, including St Ives, which is locally known as the jewel of Cornwall's crown. Here you'll find crystal blue waters and golden sands, as well as a bustling art scene boasting one of only four Tate Museums in the world.

On the north coast lies Newquay, a harbour town renowned for its world-class surf and vivacious nightlife. Keen wave-riders will relish a chance to test their ability during a surfing holiday, whilst families may wish to pay a visit to the local aquarium or zoo.

Switch coasts to South Cornwall and sample Fowey's legendary mussels whilst you watch the sailboats drift by from the quay. Afterwards, stretch your legs and discover one of many coastal walks the area has to offer.

Somerset is famed for its sprawling moors and deep historic ties, but it also has plenty of attractive coastline to offer too. From seaside resorts to towering cliffs, the county's shoreline provides a plethora of pursuits to keep you and your group occupied. Feel welcomed in when you visit Weston-super-Mare, a pretty Victorian town with one of the best beaches in the county.

If coastal walks are your hobby of choice, then you won't find many better than Weston-super-Mare to Burnham-on-Sea. Once you reach the destination, you'll find one of Europe's longest golden sandy beaches, which features a short pier where the kids can spend some pennies in the arcades.

Slowing the tempo down, you may find yourself settling in the sleepy coastal village of Porlock. With easy access to Exmoor National Park, the landscape surrounding this area provides you with the tranquil setting needed to soak up the history this community has to offer.

Fossil-hunters assemble! Visitors to Dorset come for the Jurassic Coast and it does not disappoint. Enter a metaphorical time capsule and be transported back to a geological marvel featuring terra firma from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous ages.

Treat yourself to an encapsulating coastal walk when you trek from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door, the latter sporting an iconic limestone archway that draws sightseers from far and wide. Weymouth also boasts fantastic walks, but additionally famous beaches, one of which hosts the Beach Volleyball Classic and International Handball Championships.

Our coastal holiday cottages are found in some of the best locations in the South West just a short distance from the sea, with some of our properties even boasting their own views of beautiful blue waters. Take a look at our full collection of self-catering accommodation and holiday homes by the sea above.