Commune with Nature and Culture in Cornwall

The great thing about booking a holiday stay in one of the wonderful Cornwall cottages is the sheer proximity to other sites of interest; you'll be surrounded by centuries-old structures, nature preserves, and breath taking beauty at every turn. Whatever you fancy, this list of some of the region's must-visit sites should serve as an excellent lead.

Godolphin House

Godolphin House is a priceless time capsule—it is one of the few structures in the county that have stood the test of time, surviving centuries of upheavals and revolutionary changes. Built in the 15th century, it is conveniently located near many quaint Cornwall cottages to rent. Today’s Godolphin House represents only a fraction of its old grandeur as an extensive Tudor and Stuart house during the height of the family’s wealth in the 16th century. Now the house offers visitors a chance to experience its history; there are coats of armour, historical pieces, art works, even the furniture – and most are priceless originals. Moreover, much of the Godolphin House’s charm lies in its very structure: the carved beams in the dining room, for instance, date back to the early 16th century, while the mullioned windows in the east range are from 1530. Guests can luxuriate amid its rich sense of history, or enjoy an enlightening chat with the current steward about the house’s compelling backstory.

Porthcurno Telegraph Museum

Even as a former ‘centre’ of advanced technology, the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum earns our thumbs up for inclusion in this list for one simple reason: its achievements also represent the pinnacle of our civilisation’s achievements. Within easy reach of many Cornwall cottages, in the Porthcurno Valley, the museum is not only unique in what it represents, but it has also won certain awards for its compelling presentation of the valley’s historical significance. In the late 1800s, the valley was the centre of global telegraph communications, spearheading a lot of firsts as far as the telecommunications industry was concerned. The centre also played a crucial role during World War 2. Today, the museum wows visitors with its various exhibits featuring a range of functional equipment and also its jaw-dropping presentation of the ‘Victorian Internet.’ What’s more, there’s a lovely beach nearby where you enjoy a bit of recreation.

Trengwainton Gardens

Near the tip of what is known as Lands End, Trengwainton Gardens is a geographical marvel: its mild climate is the result of the landscape’s protective character that shields it from harsh winters and scorching summers. The region’s climate is also responsible for its unique mix of flora and fauna, such as certain species of plants that are not found anywhere else in the country. Not too far from many of the local Cornwall cottages, Trengwainton Gardens is a place worthy of a day’s visit. Each spring, the Gardens’ diversity of shrubs and plants creates an explosion of colour that has to be seen to be believed.

Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. We have a selection of spectacular Cornwall cottages as well as cottages in Devon, Somerset and Dorset. Whether you're looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury cottage on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.