The Ultimate Staycation Road Trip in Devon and Cornwall

Looking for the ultimate staycation in Devon and Cornwall? Look no further than this epic guide I have curated detailing the best staycation road trip in the south west of England.

Recent years have allowed me to appreciate the great British countryside and the country in which I grew up. I am originally from Dorset, have family in Devon and have lived in Cornwall.

This blog post will guide you to local gems in Devon and Cornwall that are off the beaten path. Tropical day trips, historical manor houses with exquisite gardens, white sandy beaches, and so much more. So, where do we start with the perfect staycation in Devon and Cornwall? Read on to find out.

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Table of Contents

• Staycation Spots in Devon
  • Beesands
  • Bantham
  • Plymouth Sound
• Staycation Spots in Cornwall
  • Mount Edgcumbe
  • Whitsands Bay
  • Cotehele
  • Lanhrydrock
  • Newquay
  • St Ives
• Isles of Scilly

Staycation Spots in Devon

Beesands

We start our epic Devon and Cornwall staycation road trip in the South of Devon. In the small fishing village of Beesands, to be exact. Known for delicious fresh crab and lobster, with a stunning coastline. It is perfect for walking the dog or spending time with your family. Close by to the notoriously bustling resort town of Salcombe, Beesands is the retreat you come to for an escape.

Tow your sailboat, bring your fishing rod and make camp for the day. The mile-long shingle beach backs onto a nature reserve and offers a picture-perfect backdrop. My grandparents lived in one of the nearby villages, and we visited Beesands often as a family when I was younger.

Why not hop over to the neighbouring beach of Slapton Sands, located between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth?

Where to Stay: Stay beachfront in one of the beautiful Airbnbs or grab a room in the local pub – The Cricket Inn.

Where to Eat: Make sure you stop by Britannia at the Beach, a BYOB beach shack-style cafe that serves the catch of the day seafood on a beachfront location.

Locations to visit nearby: Salcombe, Dartmouth and Kingsbridge.

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Bantham

Bantham Beach is part of the South Devon area of outstanding natural beauty and has won awards from the Marine Conservation Society and Blue Flag. Not only is this a gloriously clean beach, but it is also the perfect place to come for a surf. Hire a board from Bantham Surfing Academy or even join in on a lesson. The recent addition of colourful retro food trucks in the beach car park makes this the perfect beach for a day at the seaside. Not to mention a perfect staycation spot in Devon and Cornwall.

Come here to surf, walk the expansive coastline, kayak the estuary or even catch the sea tractor over to Burgh Island at low tide from nearby Bigbury Beach.

Where to Stay: You can stay in the local pub, The Sloop Inn, and even stay overnight on Burgh Island at the Burgh Island Hotel. Alternatively, you can stay in the nearby town of Kingsbridge, where there are more options for hotels, B&Bs and self-catering.

Where to Eat: Enjoy food from the food trucks located in the beach car park and sit on the grassy banks. This car park isn’t your usual concrete jungle. It’s mainly sand and grass, very large and has beautiful places to sit.

Locations to visit nearby: Kingsbridge, Salcombe, Dartmouth

Plymouth Sound

The port city of Plymouth has a great maritime heritage and a beautiful historic Barbican area. It is where I studied at University and so I have fond memories of living here. My favourite part of Plymouth is The Sound. Looking out to the breakwater from Plymouth Hoe, you can see Drakes Island and Mount Edgecumbe. This brings me to why I think you should visit Plymouth. To get out on the water. It is no wonder it made on to my staycation in Devon and Cornwall road trip guide.

Whether you go sailing or hire a stand-up paddleboard, being out on the water really gives you the best of what Plymouth has to offer. There are plenty of places to organise sailing in Plymouth, as it is a favourite pastime here. You can rent stand-up paddleboards from South West Sup at Royal William Yard, Plymouth’s trendy ex-Royal Navy victualling yard. They are located only steps from the ocean, where you can paddle over to the private Drakes Island. When you come back, why not stop for lunch in one of the many restaurants in Royal William Yard, the perfect location for alfresco dining?

Where to Stay: Plymouth has a wide variety of hotels and B&Bs, and my favourite locations are the Barbican and The Hoe. Stay at the modern Moxy Plymouth, which is within walking distance of all the sights.

Where to Eat: You can either eat at any of the restaurants in Royal William Yard or head to the Barbican for some seaside dining. Looking for some food on the go – grab something from Captain Jasper’s on the Barbican.

Locations to visit nearby: Mount Edgecumbe, Whitsands, Cawsand and Kingsand. These are all located in Cornwall, just across the bay from Plymouth, accessible via the Torpoint chain ferry.

Popular Activities in Plymouth

Staycation Spots In Cornwall

Mount Edgcumbe

Just across from Plymouth Sound, you can see the beautiful Mount Edgcumbe Country Park in Cornwall. It is one of Cornwall’s finest country estates and is absolutely the first place that you should stop when you cross the border from Devon. Mount Edgecumbe Country Park is over 860 acres and houses a grand manor house, a country park estate, galleries and cafes, manicured gardens and more. There is a huge variety of walks you can do here, and I am going to share my favourite one with you so you can make the most of the location.

Mount Edgcumbe Walk

Start by parking at Maker Church – the car park is by donation and is only a 5-10 minute downhill walk to the manor house. There are closer car parks, but they will cost you more, and this one is closer to the start point of the walk I want you to experience. The map below will show you where to walk, and it follows public footpaths the whole way. In the car park, walk through the gate on the right-hand side as you are looking at the ocean. From there, follow the map. This will take you along a beautiful coastal path, past Picklecombe Seat, and onto Mount Edgcumbe Folly.

Take a short break here to admire the breathtaking view over Plymouth Sound and climb the Folly. Then follow the path on the map around to Mount Edgcumbe House. The walk then follows down to the seafront, where you can visit the Orangery and the manicured gardens filled with tropical plants. Stop for a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the alfresco garden of the Orangery. The end of the walk goes back to the car park, which is only a short 10-15 minute stroll uphill.

Where to Stay: Rent an Airbnb in the nearby fishing villages of Kingsand or Cawsand. There are properties for couples to large families available, all within a stone’s throw of the beach. Mount Edgcumbe also offer glamping shepherd’s huts for a unique experience.

Where to Eat: The cafe at the Orangery serves lunch, delicious tea and cakes. Alternatively, grab a pub lunch at The Edgcumbe Arms.

Locations to visit nearby: Plymouth, Whitsands Beach.

Whitsands Bay

Around the corner from Mount Edgcumbe Country Park is the stunning Whitsands Bay. The cliffside views here are incredible, especially at sunset. Come here to surf, walk the coastal paths that make up the South West Coastal Path, have picnics on the long sandy beaches and generally have a good time. If you are feeling fancy, stay here overnight in one of the beach chalets that adorn the cliffs. You cannot beat the sea views here!

Where to Eat: There are no restaurants or cafes at this beach; however, a short drive away, you will be able to find places to pick up food. Even better, bring a picnic!

Where to Stay: Check out the luxury chalets available for hire on the cliffs here.

Locations to visit nearby: Kingsand, Cawsand and Mount Edgecumbe.

Cotehele National Trust

I am very lucky to have Cotehele National Trust only minutes from where I live in Cornwall, and I absolutely adore it. All National Trust properties are worth visiting as they are beautifully maintained and often in the most picturesque locations. Cotehele not only has a stunning medieval manor house that you can visit, but its gardens are exquisite. There is a public footpath that runs through the estate, so you can even visit the area without being a member. The best walk goes from Cotehele to Calstock with wonderful views of the River Tamar. Bring a picnic blanket and sit on the river’s edge at Cotehele Quay, followed by a country walk. The ultimate staycation in Devon and Cornwall spot.

Where to Stay: As Cotehele is located in the countryside, I would make the most of the location and choose somewhere to stay close by. Maybe in a unique countryside Airbnb. Alternatively, you could stay in the nearby beautiful town of Tavistock, who offer boutique hotels.

Where to Eat: Stop for a picnic on Cotehele Quay or head for a pub lunch in Calstock at the Tamar Inn.

Locations to visit nearby: Tavistock, Plymouth, Whitsands.

Lanhydrock

Another wonderful National Trust estate to visit is Lanhydrock, just south of Bodmin in Cornwall. This sprawling estate has acres of land for walks and an incredibly beautiful Victorian manor house to view. The gardens are, of course, stunningly maintained, and this location is a wonderful place to visit for the day. Discover the ancient woodlands and tranquil riverside paths. You can even hire a bike to make the most of the grounds. Beautiful in all seasons, Lanhydrock is the perfect road trip addition to your Devon and Cornwall vacation.

Where to Stay: You can stay at the Luxury Lanhydrock Hotel and Golf Resort or find a more boutique self-catered property on the outskirts close to Bodmin. Alternatively, you can pass by Lanhydrock on your way to Newquay from Cotehele. The drive is only 1 hour, so you can make the most of your day trip to Lanhydrock and skip a night’s accommodation.

Where to Eat: Lanhydrock is the perfect place to go with a picnic.

Locations to visit nearby: Newquay, Cotehele, Bodmin Moor.

Newquay

The popular seaside resort of Newquay has something for everyone. Whether you like to walk the beautiful coastal paths, surf in the ocean or relax on the beach. Newquay is a fantastic place to come for your Devon and Cornwall staycation. I used to visit Newquay a lot when I was at University at Plymouth, and now I visit even more, living in Devon. I am going to share my favourite places to visit that are hidden gems and off the beaten path. You won’t need to wonder why it made it into my guide to the ultimate staycation in Devon and Cornwall.

For the best sunset spot, you want to head to Little Fistral. You can either sit on the beach or do as I do and pop your picnic blanket down on the grass cliff’s edge. Bring a BBQ or picnic, and it’s the most beautiful way to spend the evening. For the best parking for Little Fistral, search for Towan Headland Car Park. This Cornwall council car park is not only cheaper than the privately run Fistral car park, but it also has beautiful views.

Take a walk along the Harbour to Little Fistral past the Huers Hut. The 14th-century hut was built as a place to keep watch for shoals of fish so the local fishermen could be alerted to their location. The white stone hut resembles the architecture of a Greek building and is a unique spot to view.

A great beach to visit in Newquay is actually a few minutes’ drive away at Watergate Bay. The clifftop views on the way here are stunning, and there is even a waterfront hotel you can stay in. It is aptly called the Watergate Bay Hotel. But if you are looking for something a little quieter, then why not head to Holywell Bay? The large dunes are beautiful, and it’s a National Trust site. There is no surprise at how stunning it is.

For the best surf in Newquay, head to Fistral Beach, where you can hire boards for beginners. I like to park at South Fistral because it has free on-road parking overlooking the ocean. This part of the beach is often quieter too. It has great surf and a cute cafe called Sea Spray serving up delicious coffees and Instagrammable grub. It is also on the same road as the awesome luxury Fistral Beach Hotel.

Where to Stay: We stayed at the Fistral Beach Hotel, and it was absolutely amazing. Their staff were incredible, and the spa was awesome. The views aren’t too bad either. There are plenty of Airbnbs in Newquay. The Headland Hotel & Spa also has a brand-new, incredible spa overlooking the ocean.

Where to Eat: Grab a Pizza at The Stable on Fistral Beach, followed by a drink at Fistral Beach Bar, both located overlooking the ocean and where the sunsets. The atmosphere is amazing then. If you fancy something a little more luxurious, then head to The Headland Hotel for a cocktail on their terrace. Fun fact about The Headland Hotel- it was the filming location for a very famous movie. The hotel is featured in Roald Dahl’s 1990’s Movie, The Witches.

Locations to visit nearby: Perranporth, Padstow, Gwithian and Godrevy.

Popular Newquay Activities

St Ives

St Ives is a well-renowned and popular seaside fishing harbour and is busy with tourists for a reason. However, the areas surrounding St Ives are why I particularly loved coming here. From breathtaking coastal path views to witnessing nature at its finest. I will guide you on a mini road trip from St Ives past the must-see locations. Securing it as a top spot in my guide to the best staycations in Devon and Cornwall.

Start off by staying in St Ives, surfing Porthmeor Beach, and strolling the harbour shops. Then hop in your car and drive to Gwithian. This is a National Trust spot, and I recommend parking at Godrevy Point. From here you can access Gwithian Beach and also Godrevy Point. In the car park, make sure you walk to the lookout and keep a keen eye on the shoreline. Here, you might be lucky enough to see the local seal colony. They sunbathe on the shore here, and from the clifftop, it makes a wonderful sight.

From here, drive along the closest road to the coast to Hell’s Mouth. The view at Hell’s Mouth is simply breathtaking and an absolute must-see! From Hell’s Mouth, you can continue on to Bassets Cove and Chapel Porth Beach. Head back to St Ives for sunset and enjoy cocktails on Porthmeor Beach.

Where to Stay: Accommodation in St Ives gets booked up well in advance, so you may need to stay out of town in a nearby village. We had an Airbnb near Camborne, and it’s within driving distance. You can also get the train to St Ives if you don’t want to park your car. It can be difficult to find parking in the town in peak season, so plan your journey in advance.

Where to Eat: Grab lunch in St Ives at West Beach Cafe or Porthmeor Beach Cafe on Porthmeor Beach. Order Fish and Chips at Hells Mouth Cafe and take them to the cliffside to witness Hells Mouth itself.

Locations to visit nearby: Newquay, Perranporth and Penzance.

Isles of Scilly

Take a day trip to my favourite place in the entire country – The Isles of Scilly. A group of tropical islands 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall. You can visit by boat, plane or helicopter. If you have time, I would recommend staying here for a week or two. This way, you get a real feel for their unique and incredible nature. But, if you only have time for a day, take advantage of the day trips that start from only £35 pp return. Coming to the Isles of Scilly make the perfect location for your staycation in Devon and Cornwall.

The Isles of Scilly endure a microclimate that supports the growth of thousands of tropical plants. It also sees the migration of exotic bird species. Making this a popular location for bird watchers. The reason that I used to love to come here every year for 20 years is hard to describe. Whether it’s the endless empty white sandy beaches, the beautiful turquoise ocean or the countless coastal paths. Somehow, the Isles of Scilly just feel like home and give you a real sense of peacefulness. There are 5 inhabited islands – St. Mary’s, St. Martins, Tresco, St. Agnes and Bryher. All are unique in their own way and offer something for everyone.

Check out my guide to the best day trip to The Isles of Scilly here.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Road Trip Staycation in Devon and Cornwall

• Google Maps: Research and pin your locations onto Google Maps for future reference. That way, you can see what places you want to visit and can plan the distances in between. You can add all of the locations into the directions section one after the other to plot your route.
• Local Advice: Take the advice of locals, as they will often know the best-hidden gems to visit.
• Car Breakdown Cover: Ensure you have a good breakdown cover – there is nothing worse than breaking down when you are far from home. It does make it a lot easier when you have someone to come rescue you. Some even come with a replacement car so you can continue your journey.
• Go with the flow: Be prepared to go off schedule. You might find places along the way you want to visit, so ensure you can be flexible.

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