When the sun graces the UK, there is no shortage of places to enjoy it, from immaculate white beaches kissed by azure waters to delightful cobbled streets and scenic villages. Good weather presents the perfect opportunity to explore some of the most celebrated seaside resorts and countryside settlements.
Whether drawn to the historic appeal of the Cotswolds or the maritime character of towns such as Weymouth, Scarborough, St Ives or Whitby, these popular destinations will be packed with visitors. However, if you'd prefer to enjoy the splendour of the British Isles without the crowds of Instagrammers and eager tourists, there's a secret gem in Cornwall that features breathtaking landscapes, tranquil beaches and an ambience of complete serenity.
Twin Villages on the Rame Peninsula
Nestled on the southeast coast are the twin villages of Cawsand and Kingsand, providing everything needed for a wonderful staycation and more besides. Located on the less frequented Rame Peninsula, often referred to as Cornwall's "forgotten corner", these villages are officially designated areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB).
This remote part of the country serves as a natural sanctuary that succeeds in avoiding large crowds during the summer. Despite being encircled by popular tourist hotspots, these enchanting hamlets have succeeded in preserving their peaceful appeal. These quaint fishing villages, with their maze-like lanes and sandy beaches, remain a secret gem off the beaten tourist track.
History and Coastal Charm
They're immersed in a fascinating history that encompasses the ancestral estates of Mount Edgcumbe, Port Eliot, and Antony House. Remarkably, these two villages were formerly part of different counties, renowned for their longstanding rivalry and as a sanctuary for smugglers.
Today, Cawsand Bay is a paradise for families, ramblers, swimmers, and kayakers. Its east-facing shingle and sand beach is peppered with rock pools and inlets, and its protected waters provide a secure and picturesque location for all. Visitors attracted to the beaches are never distant from traditional Cornish fare, with local pubs and shops merely a stone's throw from the sandy expanse.
What to See and Do
Kingsand, the adjacent village, is an undiscovered treasure with cottage-lined streets that match the appeal of Polperro and Port Isaac. Retaining much of its original character, Kingsand was formerly a bustling fishing village, and traces of the old pilchard cellars and boat stores can still be observed along the seafront.
This peaceful corner of the peninsula, nestled beneath the coastal path, is a favourite amongst walkers and birdwatchers, stretching all the way to the striking Rame Head, topped with a 14th-century chapel. Seafood enthusiasts should make straight for the Devonport Inn in Kingsand, while The Bay Bar in Cawsand provides a peaceful location for a pint, enhanced by an unrivalled view.
The journey to these twin villages offers a calming experience in itself. As you travel through miles of coastline, the breathtaking views across Whitsand Bay offer a glimpse of the natural splendour that awaits. Situated merely a brief drive from the busy retail centres and luxurious accommodation of Plymouth, this tranquil pocket of Cornwall achieves the ideal equilibrium — provided that's what you're seeking.
