When the sun graces the UK with its presence, the nation boasts no shortage of remarkable attractions, from breathtaking white sandy beaches kissed by crystal-clear waters to delightful cobblestone streets and idyllic villages. The summer holidays provide the perfect opportunity to explore some of Britain's most cherished seaside resorts and countryside escapes. Whether you're drawn to the enduring allure of the Cotswolds or the coastal magnetism of destinations such as Weymouth, Scarborough, St Ives or Whitby, one thing is certain: these popular locations will be teeming with visitors. However, if you'd prefer to appreciate the splendour of the British Isles without navigating throngs of tourists and social media devotees, there's a secret gem in Cornwall that offers spectacular scenery, serene beaches and a completely peaceful atmosphere.
Discovering Cawsand and Kingsand
Nestled on the South-east coast, the twin villages of Cawsand and Kingsand possess everything you could conceivably desire for a delightful staycation and more besides. Located on the less-travelled Rame Peninsula, often referred to as Cornwall's 'forgotten corner', these enchanting villages are officially designated areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). This unspoilt corner of the country serves as a natural sanctuary that somehow manages to avoid the summer masses, according to the Mirror.
The idyllic settlements have preserved their peaceful atmosphere despite being encircled by bustling holiday hotspots. These delightful fishing communities, with their winding lanes and golden shores, remain a closely guarded secret off the beaten track. They boast a wealth of heritage that encompasses the ancestral estates of Mount Edgcumbe, Port Eliot, and Antony House. Intriguingly, these two settlements once formed part of different counties, renowned for their historical rivalry and for serving as a sanctuary for smugglers.
Beaches and Activities
Today, Cawsand Bay provides a sanctuary for families, walkers, bathers, and kayakers, with its east-facing shingle-and-sand shore peppered with rock pools and inlets. Its sheltered waters offer a secure and stunning spot for all. Tourists arriving to enjoy the shores are never distant from authentic Cornish cuisine, with local establishments and retailers just moments from the sandy expanse.
Kingsand, the adjacent settlement, is a concealed gem with cottage-flanked alleyways that rival the charm of Polperro and Port Isaac. Retaining much of its genuine character, Kingsand was formerly a flourishing fishing community, and traces of the old pilchard cellars and boat stores remain visible along the seafront. This serene section of the peninsula, nestled beneath the coastal path, is a popular spot for ramblers and birdwatchers, stretching all the way to the striking Rame Head, topped with a 14th-century chapel.
Dining and Travel
Seafood lovers should make a beeline for the Devonport Inn in Kingsand, while The Bay Bar in Cawsand provides a peaceful setting for a refreshing drink, boasting a truly spectacular view. The trip to these twin villages is a pleasurable experience in itself. As you wind your way for miles alongside sand and sea, the breathtaking panoramas across Whitsand Bay offer a glimpse of the magnificent scenery that awaits.
