This property is managed by our trusted partner, Toad Hall Cottages
Key Features
- Property code: RFANX
- Preferred changeover day: Thursday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- Access statement available
- Bathrooms
- Near beach
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Ground floor accommodation
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
The Round Field Annex has been extensively refurbished, emerging as a beautifully elegant and contemporary hideaway for two. Styled in cool tones of white, grey and charcoal, the apartment has been designed with simplicity and comfort in mind. The apartment benefits from electric heating, Venetian blinds and several lamps to create a cosy and snug ambience. You'll love the peaceful location too; it really is a perfect choice for relaxing and recharging, without having to travel miles for restaurants and attractions. The Annex stands inside the gateway of the Round Field house, a Neolithic settlement site that is listed by English Heritage. The Round is 151m above sea level, and 130m in diameter, and is thought to be the very first Mawnan Smith community!
Mawnan Smith takes its name from the smithy that was situated in the centre of the village where two old trackways met. One led to the ferry at Helford Passage, and the other wove its way up to the St Maunanus church, on the cliff overlooking the Helford River. The village itself is set between Falmouth Bay and the Helford Estuary and has a grocery shop, hairdresser and the Red Lion pub, all within a ten-minute walk from the Annex. Visit the sub-tropical gardens of Trebah or Glendurgan , have a wander down to Durgan Beach. Or hop onto the Blue Pointer and take to the river for a fishing trip. Helford Passage is five minutes' drive away, where you can sample locally caught seafood dishes in the Ferry Boat Inn. Spend the day on the beach here, or catch the foot ferry across to Helford Village, where you can wander along the coastline to Daphne Du Maurier’s atmospheric Frenchman’s Creek. The Helford River itself has often been described as the jewel in Cornwall’s crown. Much of the surrounding region – lush valleys, sub-tropical gardens and sandy coves – is a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a place of unspoilt, natural tranquillity.
Key Features
- Property code: RFANX
- Preferred changeover day: Thursday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- Access statement available
- Bathrooms
- Near beach
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Ground floor accommodation
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
The Round Field Annex has been extensively refurbished, emerging as a beautifully elegant and contemporary hideaway for two. Styled in cool tones of white, grey and charcoal, the apartment has been designed with simplicity and comfort in mind. The apartment benefits from electric heating, Venetian blinds and several lamps to create a cosy and snug ambience. You'll love the peaceful location too; it really is a perfect choice for relaxing and recharging, without having to travel miles for restaurants and attractions. The Annex stands inside the gateway of the Round Field house, a Neolithic settlement site that is listed by English Heritage. The Round is 151m above sea level, and 130m in diameter, and is thought to be the very first Mawnan Smith community!
Mawnan Smith takes its name from the smithy that was situated in the centre of the village where two old trackways met. One led to the ferry at Helford Passage, and the other wove its way up to the St Maunanus church, on the cliff overlooking the Helford River. The village itself is set between Falmouth Bay and the Helford Estuary and has a grocery shop, hairdresser and the Red Lion pub, all within a ten-minute walk from the Annex. Visit the sub-tropical gardens of Trebah or Glendurgan , have a wander down to Durgan Beach. Or hop onto the Blue Pointer and take to the river for a fishing trip. Helford Passage is five minutes' drive away, where you can sample locally caught seafood dishes in the Ferry Boat Inn. Spend the day on the beach here, or catch the foot ferry across to Helford Village, where you can wander along the coastline to Daphne Du Maurier’s atmospheric Frenchman’s Creek. The Helford River itself has often been described as the jewel in Cornwall’s crown. Much of the surrounding region – lush valleys, sub-tropical gardens and sandy coves – is a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a place of unspoilt, natural tranquillity.
Entrance into hallway.
Bathroom to the right with shower cubicle, W.C., hand basin and tall heated towel rail.
Kitchen to the left with hob, oven, microwave, washing machine and fridge with ice box. T
wo steps up to the lounge with Smart TV, foot stools and leather sofa which converts into sofa for an occasional third guest over the age of 18.
Dining area with table and three chairs. French windows open onto garden area.
Bedroom with 4ft 6 bed, dressing table, chest of drawers, hanging rail, and air-cooling fan.
Grassed area on two sides. Patio table and chairs.
The picture postcard village of Mawnan Smith lies nestled in rolling pastures and overlooking the mouth of the Helford River. This enchanting location places you on the fringes of the Lizard Peninsula, a spectacular coastal sweep peppered by beauty spots and home to the British mainland’s most southerly point.
When you book a holiday in Mawnan Smith you’ll find yourselves surrounded by sun-dappled riverside trails and tranquil shores, and you’ll also be within easy reach of two of the county’s most celebrated botanical gardens - Trebah and Glendurgan.
Mawnan Smith is only three miles from the flamboyant maritime town of Falmouth where you’ll discover a bustling high street, a plethora of tearooms, bistros and restaurants, and a long list of sights and attractions, including the iconic Pendennis Castle.
Pick up the South West Coast Path as it undulates along this captivating coastal corridor and savour the many secret shores and smugglers’ coves that hug the headland. Take advantage of the many charming coastal pubs and creekside inns, famous for their award-winning hospitality and the ideal place to while away an hour or two. Explore the local food markets and pick out some prime and wholesome ingredients for your evening meal or relaxing barbeque, one of the numerous freedoms afforded when you book a self-catering holiday in Cornwall.
Mawnan Smith is encompassed by some of Cornwall’s leading tourist attractions, from the spectacular biomes of The Eden Project to Falmouth’s National Marine Aquarium. What’s more, you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of action and adventure along the local shores and riverbanks, whether that be a relaxing boat trip or paddle, or some adrenaline pumping coasteering and surfing - Mawnan Smith remains a great location for families seeking a fun-filled Cornish getaway.
Discover one of the Cornish south coast’s best-kept secrets when you pick up the keys to your holiday cottage in Mawnan Smith.
For one car, in carport, to the right of the property.
- Included: Bed linen, towels, heating, electricity and WiFi. Guests are asked to provide their own beach towels.
- Regretfully no pets, and No Smoking.
- No telephone. Mobile signal is good with EE. Mixed reception with 02 and Vodaphone.
- Local Facilities: General stores, hairdresser, cafe, and pub all within a ten-minute walk. Helford Passage, with beach, foot ferry and Ferry Boat Inn, five-minute drive away, plus two wonderful gardens: Trebah and Glendurgan. Falmouth, with all facilities, 6 miles.
AWNA coffeehouse
(Less than a mile)
(1)
A small yet stylish, dog-friendly cafe serving speciality coffee, fresh cakes, bakes and pastries. Stop by for brunch, lunch or a takeaway coffee and cinnamon bun.
Lovely atmosphere
April 2021
The Red Lion
(Less than a mile)
(5)
A thatched traditional inn in the heart of Mawnan Smith just minutes from the South West Coast Path and a pretty stroll through the woods to Maenporth Beach. Here you can sample local ales and ciders in the raftered bar along with enjoyable food from light lunches to a evening menu packed full of fresh local Cornish produce. A great spot to stop off when walking or visiting nearby Glendurgan or Trebah Garden. Children and dogs welcome.
The Red Lion, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth TR11 5EP (T: 01326 250026)
25% off food with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
We visit this pub often but this visit they declined our 25% off . Apparently Toad cottages were informed.. this made us feel very embarrassed. Can you comment on this please
May 2023
Excellent pub - great food and service would pop in again.
October 2021
The staff were brilliant but the food was just average, I'm afraid. We would not be likely to go there again.
June 2021
We ate here in the first couple of days of our stay. The staff were very friendly, as were the 'locals' and there is a good choice of seating areas and a varied menu. Food quality was very good and the service was prompt, all at a fair price. Would definitely go back. The Boar burger was lush !!
August 2019
We ate in The Red Lion and found the food to be well cooked and a decent portion. Service was prompt and well worth a visit.
June 2019
Life's a Beach Cafe
(Less than a mile)
(44)
Cafe and beach shop right on the sand at Maenporth beach. The cafe serves a great selection of freshly prepared food including crab sandwiches and delicious cornish cream teas, along with ice creams, coffees and lots more. And if you’ve forgotten your bucket and spade you’ll find one in the beach shop along with other beach toys, wetsuits and souvenirs. Cash only.
Lifes a Beach Maenporth Beach, Falmouth (T: 01326 251209)
Good cafe. Fair prices
April 2024
We love Life's a beach, fantastic location, great food and coffee, really friendly staff.
October 2023
Life's a Beach is on the top ten of my favourite places in the world. The setting is glorious, right on the beach with coastal walks available in both directions and it's open 7 days a week. The menu is perfect (in my book) and the food much more delicious than you might expect from a beach cafe. My only criticism is that it isn't open 24 hours a day!
October 2023
Lovely coffee and cakes
August 2023
Absolutely excellent. Ice cream amazing
August 2023
Lovely cafe! Just a shame they were out of so many items on the menu. After a busy Monday, they didn’t seem to restock all week.
August 2023
Great beach cafe!
August 2023
Really good location & the food was good too.
July 2023
Delightful cafe with lovely food on a really beautiful beach. Definitely worth a visit .
July 2023
Excellent food and drink in a beautiful setting. Love the recent improvements to the decking area!
April 2023
Great little cafe with helpful and and friendly staff.
August 2022
Lovely breakfast sausage baps early on the beach, yummy milkshakes made with icecream too! Great place and great choice of food. Would certainly recommend
August 2022
Outstanding food and service. The cafe makes the place for us!
July 2022
Lovely little cafe, great food & the ice-cream is delicious. The staff could not be more helpful. If like myself you have mobility issues and cannot walk on sand they have a fabulous Sand Chair (beach wheelchair) which you can book out and have a push down to the shore line, it was a fabulous find. Many thanks all
June 2022
We used life's a beach every day, lovely food, drink and staff, great place.
June 2022
A perfect beach cafe!
June 2022
Friendly service, and great food!
June 2022
Lovely food, great choice & very polite, helpful staff
June 2022
Right on your doorstep - lots of people swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking - if that's your thing
May 2022
Love this cafe - great service, friendly team and the food is delicious. Highly recommend the mackerel brioche when it's available!
May 2022
A good selection of hot drinks, lunch and ice cream which you can sit outside on the picnic tables by the beach to eat and drink. We came here a few times.
April 2022
Great beach cafe.
November 2021
Stopped off one morning for tea and a bacon sarnie - well recommended.
October 2021
Had a lovely coffee sat watching all the dogs in the water … we sat for ages ,.just relaxing by the sea
October 2021
Very good beach bar.
October 2021
Beautiful position lovely coffee and tea and cake
September 2021
We only used this to buy ice creams and a bucket and spade for the kids... Ice creams wer fab!
September 2021
Only bought drinks and ice-creams from here. However the food we saw other people eating looked good. As there is no local shop would have been helpful if they had stocked basic essentials like milk.
September 2021
We loved this beach cafe, great menu, fab staff and amazing cake!!!
September 2021
Very good food.
August 2021
Wonderful cafe. Food is fantastic and very reasonably priced.
August 2021
Very good lunch time food, unfortunately very long queues
August 2021
Lovely cafe, great food, drinks and ice creams - everything you need from a beach cafe
August 2021
Fantastic breakfast rolls
July 2021
Good food and cracking ice cream. Very reasonably priced.
July 2021
Good range of snacks/drinks. Plenty of seating overlooking beach. xx
July 2021
Had a lovely meal there, very friendly staff, perfect location.
July 2021
We love this cafe - great food - the mackerel brioche bap is a must :-) and excellent service. It was really well organised for the Covid-19 regulations, too. Please visit and support the team.
April 2021
not in operation during our stay
October 2020
Fab location and good food.
September 2020
Long queues due to only one queue for taking food orders and ice creams possibly due to current situation. Hotdogs lovely and large, used mainly for ice creams.
August 2020
all you need for a beach cafe
July 2020
Great service and good variety of daytime food & snacks. Temporary buildings a bit of a mess,Is it going to be improved / rebuilt
September 2019
Life's a Beach is in a lovely location. Unfortunately when we visited they had recently had a bad fire so it is closed.
June 2019
The Ferry Boat Inn
(2 miles)
(42)
Dating back 300 years, The Ferry Boat Inn sits on the edge of the beach at Helford Passage. Thanks to its waterside position, you can look out over one of the most beautiful views in Cornwall whilst enjoying a drink or delicious meal. The Ferry Boat serves a tasty menu of homemade pub classics, alongside fresh, locally caught seafood dishes. Outside, there’s a large terrace with plenty of seating, perfect for long sunny days and warm, summer’s evenings, and come winter there’s a cosy open fire. Children and dogs very welcome.
The Ferry Boat Inn, Helford Passage, Falmouth, TR11 5LB (T: 01326 250625)
Only a flight of stairs away. Friendly pub, good food, perfect setting.
April 2024
Excellent and welcoming.
February 2024
Lovely food and so close!!
September 2023
Had two lovely meals here during our stay. It’s a great pub with a wonderful terrace. Staff were really lovely.
September 2023
Stayed in Helford Passage and had delicious seafood here on 2 nights of our stay. Husband is GF and gluten free fish batter was really fabulous
September 2023
Staff great and really helpful , food lovely,
September 2023
Good food Pleasant polite staff would really
September 2023
Great place to people watch and taking in the Helford river. Staff are amazing and the fish Tacos were excellent.
September 2023
Very busy, good food and pleasant staff.
August 2023
Really enjoyed visiting this pub, relaxed, doggie friendly, great food, friendly staff and my favourite beer on tap! Would recommend booking if you want to eat around 6 - 7pm
July 2023
We stayed above the Ferryboat Inn and used it several times for an evening meal. Delicious food, good portions and service was friendly. As it was warm and sunny, we were able to enjoy the gorgeous view over the river too. It's a hidden gem of an area with the added bonus of a good eating and drinking place
June 2023
Great atmosphere - great menu - great location
June 2023
Very good food from here and nice staff - we had a few meals and also drinks
June 2023
Had a great meal here - great menu with super specials using local ingredients every day.
June 2023
Lovely pub on the River, food was very nice. One small thing to be aware of, we tried to book Sunday lunch only to be told they are booking around 2 weeks in advance! Just a heads up to book if you were planning a trip, I guess that must be an indication of the food! We enjoyed our mid week meal though, staff were friendly and efficient but unobtrusive. Food was good quality and reasonably priced. We’d be happy to return again.
February 2023
Lovely, friendly pub with lots of dogs. We have been coming to The Ferryboat Inn for years. It was particularly enjoyable out of season, in January, although still sufficient numbers of locals and visitors to provide atmosphere. The hake chowder is particularly good!
January 2023
Fab great food
July 2022
Amazing food and drink options and lovely service however opening hours should ideally be extended and more food options at lunchtime would make it even better. It was brilliant when they did the takeaway options as well as main food options
June 2022
The Ferryboat Inn has it all, stunning location, good atmosphere and great food at reasonable prices.
November 2021
Very friendly and efficient staff. Food delicious. Setting perfect.
October 2021
Stunning pub right on the river - top quality food and service - one of the best fish and chips out there!!!
October 2021
We’ve been here a number of times previous to our most recent visit in October, and eaten on each occasion - hence we keep coming back..!! However on this occasion, we found the place (inside) totally lacking atmosphere. I guess that could be a hangover from the impact of the pandemic, but the staff were very lacklustre too - helpful, but they didn’t look like they were enjoying it. We have to say though, the food was as flavourful as ever - brilliant. Could have done with a little more adventure in the menu, as well as having some starters, but the quality was great.
October 2021
Unfortunately we were not able to visit during our time in Helford Passage as there were long queues. This may get better when people start to go abroad again. Food on offer looked good.
September 2021
Charles, manager, very helpful & professional. Good food. Many thanks
September 2021
Best fish in batter I have ever had!
July 2021
Excellent position along with excellent fish and chips
July 2021
Due to Covid staff shortages the remaining staff team did a great job in holding it all together. Well done !
June 2021
Had a meal inside be night. Social distances were observed. Also great food.
June 2021
Lovely food.
June 2021
Excellent service and food. View pretty amazing as well.
June 2021
Fantastic local pub with excellent food and friendly staff. Can't fault it!
May 2021
test review
April 2021
We had a weeks stay and used the Ferryboat Inn often. The online ordering was easy and collection very well organised. Every meal we had was delicious especially the Sticky Toffee Pudding - I would highly recommend it
September 2020
Fabulous food, great wine and viewes to die for! We had the sunday roast and can honestly say it's the best we 've ever eaten! Such a gem of a pub! X
January 2020
Great food. Excellent service. Very friendly helpful staff.
September 2019
Faultless! We have seen the FBI through many incarnations over the decades. I think the current crew is quite possibly the best. Excellent food and AMAZING service sometimes in very testing conditions, not all customers are nice! We eat there frequently, sometimes daily, less so this year because the weather was not so good so had a few away days, but we ate breakfast, excellent innovation!, lunch and supper. Congratulations and thanks to you all
August 2019
Wonderful location, freshly prepared good food. Friendly staff.
August 2019
Good quality food, freshly prepared and trying to cater for many tastes. Friendly staff and atmosphere.
August 2019
Absolutely fantastic food in a glorious waterside location. Pretty unbeatable. Thank you. Quick service too.
July 2019
had great evening meal while listening to the Oggies! Staff friendly despite how busy it was
July 2019
The Ferryboat was excellent delicious food and a great atmosphere. Staff helpful and friendly and obviously a view to die for.
June 2019
Lovely food with wonderful views of the Helford River.
June 2019
The Cornish Food Box Company
(2 miles)
(4)
A fabulous way to get amazing Cornish food & drink delivered for your holiday, The Cornish Food Box Company makes it really easy for you to pick from over 2000 local products online and have them delivered direct to your holiday cottage. Order before you come down and the team will even unpack and put everything away for you before you arrive. The Cornish Food Box Company works with more than 250 local producers and farmers and sell everything from local veg, fruit and free range meat to sparkling wines, seafood, cheeses and much more. Delivery across Cornwall and the UK every week.
*COVID-19 UPDATE* Due to Covid-19 restrictions we are not able to offer our unpacking service at this time. If you are not able to be available for delivery we can pack into chilled boxes which can be left safe for your arrival. Please contact us for more information.
Click here for further details
*£5 off any order over £50 with code TOADHALL
Very good service, and excellent idea as there is no shop nearby.
February 2024
yjyjryjdrt
March 2021
very good
March 2021
Excellent find! Lovely cream tea, probably the best scones ever. Delightful cook/owner; quirky, quaint eatery and very good food shopping. Well worth a visit.
August 2019
Mawnan Craft Centre
(Less than a mile)
An authentic, centuries old smithy which has been restored as a working forge, offering you the chance to watch a skilled blacksmith, sign-writer, silversmith and furniture maker as they work and browse their unique, hand-crafted products. There’s also an exhibition where you can learn all about the history of Mawnan Smith and the restoration of its smithy.
Mawnan Craft Centre, Carwinion Road, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR11 5JF
Falmouth Surf School & Watersports
(Less than a mile)
(4)
Falmouth Surf School offer adult surf lessons and hire along with transport on the ‘Surf Bus’ to Cornwall’s best surfing beaches. From their base at Maenporth Beach they also offer SUP boarding, SUP Yoga and Kayaking hire and tuition, and can deliver equipment direct to your holiday cottage.
Click here for further details
Enjoy a 10% discount with your Toad Hall Cottages discount card
Really helpful chaps and reasonably priced hire
August 2023
Fantastic surfing experience. They were extremely helpful and wanted you to get the most out of the time.
June 2022
Brilliant experience
July 2021
Excellent hire from the guys. Paddle boards and kayaks hired with buoyancy aids at very good prices. Great fun by all.
July 2021
Nays Yoga
(Less than a mile)
Friendly SUP yoga classes at Maenporth Beach with experienced teacher Nay. Run from 1st August.
Click here for further information
Glendurgan Garden
(2 miles)
(6)
Run by the National Trust, Glendurgan Gardens span over three valleys, filled with sub-tropical plants, exotic flowers and bright blooms. The peaceful gardens lead down to the unspoilt beachside hamlet of Durgan. Here you can take a rest and enjoy the stunning views of the Helford River, treat yourself to an ice cream, build sandcastles and watch the wildlife on the water. Glendurgan Garden offer a great day out for the entire family thanks to its impressive maze and Giant’s Stride rope swing, shop and teahouse, which serves traditional Cornish cream teas, light lunches and Children’s meals.
Glendurgan Garden, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR115JZ (T: 01326 252020)
No dogs allowed
September 2023
We would love to visit Glendurgan, but cannot do so until they become dog-friendly. In contrast, Trebah gardens nearby allow dogs and they do not appear to cause any problems.
May 2023
Brilliant place run by the National Trust - rhodos,etc were finished so do book your holiday for end of April, spring Bank holiday if its spring flowering stuff you want to see -
May 2022
Beautiful gardens. Enjoyable walk down the gully to the village and beach. Then the steep walk back! Lovely sub tropical plants, nice cafe at the top
May 2022
Beautiful gardens with lovely cafe and second hand bookshop.
October 2021
Gardens have been kept lovely but unfortunately there were staff shortages so long queues for food or ice cream. There were no plants to buy this year but that is hardly surprising. The staff all worked very hard to make the visit pleasant. They deserve a medal!
September 2021
Trebah Garden
(2 miles)
(9)
The subtropical valleys of Trebah Gardens offer a fantastic day out for the whole family. Four miles of footpath lead through canopies of exotic trees, plants and flowers which cascade down to a private, secluded beach on the Helford River. Here, you can take in the views, relax on the beach and enjoy a famous Roskilly’s Cornish ice cream from the Boathouse Cafe. There are adventure playgrounds and children’s trails to keep the youngest members of the family entertained, and dogs (on leads) are welcome in the gardens and on the beach all year round. As well as a visitor centre and shop, there’s a fantastic café, Trebah Kitchen, which serves locally sourced, seasonal food. Trebah is also home to an amphitheatre where you can catch music, dance, theatre and comedy performances.
Trebah Garden, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR11 5JZ (T: 01326 252200)
Beautiful garden, exotic planting with a Gigantic Gunnera passage which was a surprise. Gorgeous private beach and interesting plant shop.
July 2023
We walked to these gardens - so beautiful! Had a lovely coffee on arrival in the garden cafe and also visited the beach for an ice cream
June 2023
Beautiful garden!
July 2022
Excellent garden and the beach the icing on the caje
May 2022
Honestly the most amazing garden I've ever seen. Stunning.
April 2022
Disappointed that we were not able to visit as they were only open on select days and you had to book your visit beforehand. We hope this will get better in the future as we missed being able to to fit a visit in this time.
September 2021
Stunning gardens with a beach at the end. Great shade on those days when it is blisteringly hot. Also contains two small playgrounds for little ones.
July 2021
something for everyone even on a damp day
November 2019
A must to see, great for gardeners and photographers alike. Do check café times when you first go in.
July 2019
Maenporth Beach
(Less than a mile)
(38)
A scenic sweep of golden sand flanked by cliffs, this family friendly beach looks out across Falmouth Bay towards Pendennis Castle and the lighthouse at St Anthony Head. There’s plenty of sand and shallow water which is great for children and excellent facilities, including a cafe selling great food and beach equipment, plus toilets and car park. Maenporth is also a lovely spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard, both of which can be hired on the beach during summer months. Dogs allowed from October to Easter Sunday.
Fantastic beach
April 2024
Lovely and clean, beautiful.
October 2023
Absolutely loved Maenporth. Lovely sheltered beach with fantastic cafe
August 2023
Lovely beach but early morning dog owners do not on occasion clean up on their dogs. We had to borrow a shovel on two occasions to clear the mess
August 2023
If you think this will be a quiet, hidden gem then you’d couldn’t be more wrong. It’s a very busy, active beach with lots to do and changing tides. We felt very blessed to be staying so close so we didn’t have to arrive super early to get a car parking space. Loved how safe it felt most of time, except when the fog came rolling in as fast as a wave! Enjoyed paddling, swimming, rock-pooling, playing with local dogs (after hours), someone built an incredible pyramid sandcastle which the kids and adults enjoyed.
August 2023
This beach is beautiful! Not too busy and everything is within a short distance.
July 2023
My favourite beach. Sunrise from here is something else!
April 2023
Used the beach but time off visit big waves so paddle boarding out off the question but had great fun on the body boards. Not a crowed beach parking prices reasonable, parking right on the beach .
September 2022
Lovely beach our third year in a row. The only problem which is not unique to this beach, is weaver fish. I do think visitors need to be made more aware of the adviseability of wearing beach shoes to protect against this problem. I think all beaches should have signs to this effect.
August 2022
Mix of sand and shingle beach. Quite a bit of seaweed when we were there but of the lettuce type so not too problematic. Not much in the way of waves so not good for body boarding but good for paddle boards or kayaks and swimming. Nice little take out cafe.
August 2022
Lovely beach and so convenient to Maenporth Estate. Shame about the seaweed that arrived! But beautiful nonetheless.
August 2022
Lovely beach
July 2022
Wonderful beach, very clean. Lovely view , didn’t use coffee shop so can’t comment.
June 2022
A lovely, perfect beach, ideal for everyone and great for rock pooling. Really clean too.
June 2022
Beautiful...although it did say no dogs, and there were plenty!
June 2022
Love this beach never tire of the view
October 2021
Lovely 'out of the way' beach with great outlook. Can be a bit 'smelly' when the tide it out in the lagoon nearby but does not distract from the beach or surrounds.
September 2021
Beautiful beach a hidden gem
September 2021
Great beach with a mix of sand and stones. Interesting caves when the tide is out. The tide goes out quite far so a bit of a walk to the sea but great for kids and adults alike.
September 2021
Lovely secluded beach -safe for children and doing water sports. Cafe and toilets nearby. Only downside no tap to wash sand off feet.
September 2021
Beautiful
September 2021
A bustling and busy sandy beach offering water sports and swimming and yet without the crowds of other parts of Cornwall. The coastal walks from there are glorious too.
September 2021
Great beach.
August 2021
Love this beach. It’s just stunning. Definitely returning.
August 2021
This is a great beach for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, exploring caves and rock pooling. Clean clear water, easy car parking and toilets plus a little cafe.
July 2021
Nice beach but disappointed that many dogs were running free on it. Witnessed several dogs pooing on the beach. This is supposed to be a dog free beach from Easter to October and I visited in June. Does no one police this blatant ignoring of the rules?!!
July 2021
Lovely Sandy beach with great cafe, toilets, parking and coast paths to enjoy.
July 2021
Fantastic holiday in a beautiful location. The holiday home was spacious, clean & the whole site was Covid friendly. We chose this holiday as we felt it was the safest option during these difficult times and everything about it came up to & beyond our expectations. My granddaughter especially enjoyed using the children's playground & indoor pool. The booking procedure and use of the swimming pool was ideal. Well organised. Many, many thanks. We came home feeling relaxed after a great week.
September 2020
Best beach in the area, its like been on a Greek island when the sun is shining
September 2020
Better beach than Swan pool, ideal for young children, gently sloping, perfect for water sports
August 2020
Really convenient if staying at maenporth estate. Mix of sand, shingle and rocks. Great for rock pooling. Calm sea so safe for families and watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking. Wasn't overcrowded even when very warm!
August 2020
Beautiful quiet cove idyllic spot
July 2020
great beach complete with smugglers cave
November 2019
Lovely beach with decent facilities, but beach needs regular cleaning even after bank Holiday week
September 2019
This is a fabulous family friendly beach as it is quite sheltered. A great place to paddle board, relax and eat ice cream! You do need to get there early as the car park and beach fills up really quickly. I would also recommend beach shoes as several people were stung by weaver fish who were hiding in the sand as the tide went out. Definitely worth a visit ????
August 2019
Perfect beach
June 2019
Lovely beach ,best off season.
June 2019
A beautiful beach and wonderful setting.
June 2019
Nansidwell Beach (Woodlands Beach)
(Less than a mile)
Found between Maenporth and Mawnan Smith, this is a small, pretty sandy beach with some shingle and rocks accessed by footpath from the road. It’s a five to ten minute walk, meaning the beach itself is often quiet and uncrowded with lovely swimming. No amenities though and the walk isn’t suitable for buggies or those with limited mobility. Also known as Woodlands Beach. Dogs allowed all year round.
Bream Cove
(Less than a mile)
A pretty sheltered cove in a secluded setting surrounded by low cliffs and woodland, Bream Cove consists of a sand and shingle beach dipping down to clear water with excellent swimming and snorkelling. At low water rock pools are exposed which children will love to explore and it’s possible to scramble over the rocks to the sandy beach next door at Gatamala Cove. There are no facilities here and no car park, but there are parking spaces on the nearby road between Maenporth and Rosemullion Head close to the Meuden Hotel, with access to the beach via footpath. Dogs welcome all year.
Grebe Beach
(2 miles)
(1)
A quiet and secluded shingle beach on the Helford River in between the villages of Durgan and Mawnan. Access is via a short woodland walk from Durgan and then a steep path down to the beach, which means it’s rarely crowded and ideal if you prefer peace and quiet to cafes and facilities, of which there are none. The water is safe for swimming here and there are rocky outcrops to explore and jump off. It’s worth bearing in mind though that while there is a large beach at low water, with the highest tides it’s completely covered. Dogs welcome all year round.
This beach would probably be a problem for pushchairs but is a little more secluded. We met a lot of dog walkers.
September 2021
Durgan Beach
(2 miles)
(1)
Owned by the National Trust, the scattering of cottages that make up the tiny village of Durgan form a pretty backdrop to this sand and shingle beach. With stunning views in both directions over the Helford River, Durgan has strong boating links and there is a slipway running down to the beach and moorings offshore. This south facing beach is a peaceful place to relax on the sand and watch the boats go by while children play in the rockpools. If you forget your bucket, spade or net you can borrow one from the National Trust Fish Cellar building which also sells teas, coffee and ice creams during the summer months. Like many of the beaches along the Helford, Durgan Beach is almost entirely covered during the highest tides so keep an eye on the tide times. There is no parking in Durgan itself, however, there is a carpark on the main road and signposted path to the village and beach. Dogs welcome all year round.
We visited a couple of times. It was just as good as ever. National Trust staff could not man the shop on the beach during one visit so we really missed our ice cream treat on that occasion!
September 2021
October 2023
No spare toilet roll - luckily had brought one with me as ran out of that supplied. Could not get TV to work - would have expected easy, simple access to free channels. No opportunity or instructions for recycling newspapers, bottles, plastic or cans - had to bring it all home with me to recycle.
Thanks so much for your feedback. We supply one toilet roll per bathroom just to get you started as these are self-catering properties. It's such a shame you didn't contact us as we could have sorted the TV out for you. There should have been instructions for recycling in the welcome folder - I'm so sorry if these have been mislaid.
- The Toad Hall Team
September 2022
Round Field Annex is a great place to stay. Modern, spotlessly clean and an excellent base for you to explore Cornwall. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend this accommodation to others. Even though the weather was mixed we managed to do so much and the accommodation comes with an information book full of places to visit, discounts and helpful hints. Plus a welcome pack is provided which was appreciated and a lovely touch.
Goodness, it sounds like you had a lovely break with us! Many thanks for leaving such a thorough review!
- The Toad Hall Team
August 2022
We have just arrived back after a wonderful week in Mawnan Smith. The Annex was in a very peaceful spot, located to the side of a private graveled driveway - the perfect retreat for a relaxing trip. Very cosy inside, and great outside space for enjoying the Cornish sun. Only a short 15 minute drive and you are in the center of Falmouth. Definitely would recommend staying here, we will book again! :) Lovely part of Cornwall.
June 2022
Yes great stay, loved it and Cornwall met our every expectation. Thank you all.
June 2022
Excellent walks to coast paths taking in some our favourite beaches. The annex is perfect for a couple - great tv/wifi. We appreciated the welcome package of refreshments on arrival. All very comfortable, and private garden to sit in the sun. Great local places to eat.
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review! Very pleased you enjoyed your stay!
- The Toad Hall Team
October 2023
No spare toilet roll - luckily had brought one with me as ran out of that supplied. Could not get TV to work - would have expected easy, simple access to free channels. No opportunity or instructions for recycling newspapers, bottles, plastic or cans - had to bring it all home with me to recycle.
Thanks so much for your feedback. We supply one toilet roll per bathroom just to get you started as these are self-catering properties. It's such a shame you didn't contact us as we could have sorted the TV out for you. There should have been instructions for recycling in the welcome folder - I'm so sorry if these have been mislaid.
- The Toad Hall Team
September 2022
Round Field Annex is a great place to stay. Modern, spotlessly clean and an excellent base for you to explore Cornwall. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend this accommodation to others. Even though the weather was mixed we managed to do so much and the accommodation comes with an information book full of places to visit, discounts and helpful hints. Plus a welcome pack is provided which was appreciated and a lovely touch.
Goodness, it sounds like you had a lovely break with us! Many thanks for leaving such a thorough review!
- The Toad Hall Team
August 2022
We have just arrived back after a wonderful week in Mawnan Smith. The Annex was in a very peaceful spot, located to the side of a private graveled driveway - the perfect retreat for a relaxing trip. Very cosy inside, and great outside space for enjoying the Cornish sun. Only a short 15 minute drive and you are in the center of Falmouth. Definitely would recommend staying here, we will book again! :) Lovely part of Cornwall.
June 2022
Yes great stay, loved it and Cornwall met our every expectation. Thank you all.
June 2022
Excellent walks to coast paths taking in some our favourite beaches. The annex is perfect for a couple - great tv/wifi. We appreciated the welcome package of refreshments on arrival. All very comfortable, and private garden to sit in the sun. Great local places to eat.
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review! Very pleased you enjoyed your stay!
- The Toad Hall Team
AWNA coffeehouse
(Less than a mile)
(1)
A small yet stylish, dog-friendly cafe serving speciality coffee, fresh cakes, bakes and pastries. Stop by for brunch, lunch or a takeaway coffee and cinnamon bun.
Lovely atmosphere
April 2021
The Red Lion
(Less than a mile)
(5)
A thatched traditional inn in the heart of Mawnan Smith just minutes from the South West Coast Path and a pretty stroll through the woods to Maenporth Beach. Here you can sample local ales and ciders in the raftered bar along with enjoyable food from light lunches to a evening menu packed full of fresh local Cornish produce. A great spot to stop off when walking or visiting nearby Glendurgan or Trebah Garden. Children and dogs welcome.
The Red Lion, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth TR11 5EP (T: 01326 250026)
25% off food with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
We visit this pub often but this visit they declined our 25% off . Apparently Toad cottages were informed.. this made us feel very embarrassed. Can you comment on this please
May 2023
Excellent pub - great food and service would pop in again.
October 2021
The staff were brilliant but the food was just average, I'm afraid. We would not be likely to go there again.
June 2021
We ate here in the first couple of days of our stay. The staff were very friendly, as were the 'locals' and there is a good choice of seating areas and a varied menu. Food quality was very good and the service was prompt, all at a fair price. Would definitely go back. The Boar burger was lush !!
August 2019
We ate in The Red Lion and found the food to be well cooked and a decent portion. Service was prompt and well worth a visit.
June 2019
Life's a Beach Cafe
(Less than a mile)
(44)
Cafe and beach shop right on the sand at Maenporth beach. The cafe serves a great selection of freshly prepared food including crab sandwiches and delicious cornish cream teas, along with ice creams, coffees and lots more. And if you’ve forgotten your bucket and spade you’ll find one in the beach shop along with other beach toys, wetsuits and souvenirs. Cash only.
Lifes a Beach Maenporth Beach, Falmouth (T: 01326 251209)
Good cafe. Fair prices
April 2024
We love Life's a beach, fantastic location, great food and coffee, really friendly staff.
October 2023
Life's a Beach is on the top ten of my favourite places in the world. The setting is glorious, right on the beach with coastal walks available in both directions and it's open 7 days a week. The menu is perfect (in my book) and the food much more delicious than you might expect from a beach cafe. My only criticism is that it isn't open 24 hours a day!
October 2023
Lovely coffee and cakes
August 2023
Absolutely excellent. Ice cream amazing
August 2023
Lovely cafe! Just a shame they were out of so many items on the menu. After a busy Monday, they didn’t seem to restock all week.
August 2023
Great beach cafe!
August 2023
Really good location & the food was good too.
July 2023
Delightful cafe with lovely food on a really beautiful beach. Definitely worth a visit .
July 2023
Excellent food and drink in a beautiful setting. Love the recent improvements to the decking area!
April 2023
Great little cafe with helpful and and friendly staff.
August 2022
Lovely breakfast sausage baps early on the beach, yummy milkshakes made with icecream too! Great place and great choice of food. Would certainly recommend
August 2022
Outstanding food and service. The cafe makes the place for us!
July 2022
Lovely little cafe, great food & the ice-cream is delicious. The staff could not be more helpful. If like myself you have mobility issues and cannot walk on sand they have a fabulous Sand Chair (beach wheelchair) which you can book out and have a push down to the shore line, it was a fabulous find. Many thanks all
June 2022
We used life's a beach every day, lovely food, drink and staff, great place.
June 2022
A perfect beach cafe!
June 2022
Friendly service, and great food!
June 2022
Lovely food, great choice & very polite, helpful staff
June 2022
Right on your doorstep - lots of people swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking - if that's your thing
May 2022
Love this cafe - great service, friendly team and the food is delicious. Highly recommend the mackerel brioche when it's available!
May 2022
A good selection of hot drinks, lunch and ice cream which you can sit outside on the picnic tables by the beach to eat and drink. We came here a few times.
April 2022
Great beach cafe.
November 2021
Stopped off one morning for tea and a bacon sarnie - well recommended.
October 2021
Had a lovely coffee sat watching all the dogs in the water … we sat for ages ,.just relaxing by the sea
October 2021
Very good beach bar.
October 2021
Beautiful position lovely coffee and tea and cake
September 2021
We only used this to buy ice creams and a bucket and spade for the kids... Ice creams wer fab!
September 2021
Only bought drinks and ice-creams from here. However the food we saw other people eating looked good. As there is no local shop would have been helpful if they had stocked basic essentials like milk.
September 2021
We loved this beach cafe, great menu, fab staff and amazing cake!!!
September 2021
Very good food.
August 2021
Wonderful cafe. Food is fantastic and very reasonably priced.
August 2021
Very good lunch time food, unfortunately very long queues
August 2021
Lovely cafe, great food, drinks and ice creams - everything you need from a beach cafe
August 2021
Fantastic breakfast rolls
July 2021
Good food and cracking ice cream. Very reasonably priced.
July 2021
Good range of snacks/drinks. Plenty of seating overlooking beach. xx
July 2021
Had a lovely meal there, very friendly staff, perfect location.
July 2021
We love this cafe - great food - the mackerel brioche bap is a must :-) and excellent service. It was really well organised for the Covid-19 regulations, too. Please visit and support the team.
April 2021
not in operation during our stay
October 2020
Fab location and good food.
September 2020
Long queues due to only one queue for taking food orders and ice creams possibly due to current situation. Hotdogs lovely and large, used mainly for ice creams.
August 2020
all you need for a beach cafe
July 2020
Great service and good variety of daytime food & snacks. Temporary buildings a bit of a mess,Is it going to be improved / rebuilt
September 2019
Life's a Beach is in a lovely location. Unfortunately when we visited they had recently had a bad fire so it is closed.
June 2019
The Ferry Boat Inn
(2 miles)
(42)
Dating back 300 years, The Ferry Boat Inn sits on the edge of the beach at Helford Passage. Thanks to its waterside position, you can look out over one of the most beautiful views in Cornwall whilst enjoying a drink or delicious meal. The Ferry Boat serves a tasty menu of homemade pub classics, alongside fresh, locally caught seafood dishes. Outside, there’s a large terrace with plenty of seating, perfect for long sunny days and warm, summer’s evenings, and come winter there’s a cosy open fire. Children and dogs very welcome.
The Ferry Boat Inn, Helford Passage, Falmouth, TR11 5LB (T: 01326 250625)
Only a flight of stairs away. Friendly pub, good food, perfect setting.
April 2024
Excellent and welcoming.
February 2024
Lovely food and so close!!
September 2023
Had two lovely meals here during our stay. It’s a great pub with a wonderful terrace. Staff were really lovely.
September 2023
Stayed in Helford Passage and had delicious seafood here on 2 nights of our stay. Husband is GF and gluten free fish batter was really fabulous
September 2023
Staff great and really helpful , food lovely,
September 2023
Good food Pleasant polite staff would really
September 2023
Great place to people watch and taking in the Helford river. Staff are amazing and the fish Tacos were excellent.
September 2023
Very busy, good food and pleasant staff.
August 2023
Really enjoyed visiting this pub, relaxed, doggie friendly, great food, friendly staff and my favourite beer on tap! Would recommend booking if you want to eat around 6 - 7pm
July 2023
We stayed above the Ferryboat Inn and used it several times for an evening meal. Delicious food, good portions and service was friendly. As it was warm and sunny, we were able to enjoy the gorgeous view over the river too. It's a hidden gem of an area with the added bonus of a good eating and drinking place
June 2023
Great atmosphere - great menu - great location
June 2023
Very good food from here and nice staff - we had a few meals and also drinks
June 2023
Had a great meal here - great menu with super specials using local ingredients every day.
June 2023
Lovely pub on the River, food was very nice. One small thing to be aware of, we tried to book Sunday lunch only to be told they are booking around 2 weeks in advance! Just a heads up to book if you were planning a trip, I guess that must be an indication of the food! We enjoyed our mid week meal though, staff were friendly and efficient but unobtrusive. Food was good quality and reasonably priced. We’d be happy to return again.
February 2023
Lovely, friendly pub with lots of dogs. We have been coming to The Ferryboat Inn for years. It was particularly enjoyable out of season, in January, although still sufficient numbers of locals and visitors to provide atmosphere. The hake chowder is particularly good!
January 2023
Fab great food
July 2022
Amazing food and drink options and lovely service however opening hours should ideally be extended and more food options at lunchtime would make it even better. It was brilliant when they did the takeaway options as well as main food options
June 2022
The Ferryboat Inn has it all, stunning location, good atmosphere and great food at reasonable prices.
November 2021
Very friendly and efficient staff. Food delicious. Setting perfect.
October 2021
Stunning pub right on the river - top quality food and service - one of the best fish and chips out there!!!
October 2021
We’ve been here a number of times previous to our most recent visit in October, and eaten on each occasion - hence we keep coming back..!! However on this occasion, we found the place (inside) totally lacking atmosphere. I guess that could be a hangover from the impact of the pandemic, but the staff were very lacklustre too - helpful, but they didn’t look like they were enjoying it. We have to say though, the food was as flavourful as ever - brilliant. Could have done with a little more adventure in the menu, as well as having some starters, but the quality was great.
October 2021
Unfortunately we were not able to visit during our time in Helford Passage as there were long queues. This may get better when people start to go abroad again. Food on offer looked good.
September 2021
Charles, manager, very helpful & professional. Good food. Many thanks
September 2021
Best fish in batter I have ever had!
July 2021
Excellent position along with excellent fish and chips
July 2021
Due to Covid staff shortages the remaining staff team did a great job in holding it all together. Well done !
June 2021
Had a meal inside be night. Social distances were observed. Also great food.
June 2021
Lovely food.
June 2021
Excellent service and food. View pretty amazing as well.
June 2021
Fantastic local pub with excellent food and friendly staff. Can't fault it!
May 2021
test review
April 2021
We had a weeks stay and used the Ferryboat Inn often. The online ordering was easy and collection very well organised. Every meal we had was delicious especially the Sticky Toffee Pudding - I would highly recommend it
September 2020
Fabulous food, great wine and viewes to die for! We had the sunday roast and can honestly say it's the best we 've ever eaten! Such a gem of a pub! X
January 2020
Great food. Excellent service. Very friendly helpful staff.
September 2019
Faultless! We have seen the FBI through many incarnations over the decades. I think the current crew is quite possibly the best. Excellent food and AMAZING service sometimes in very testing conditions, not all customers are nice! We eat there frequently, sometimes daily, less so this year because the weather was not so good so had a few away days, but we ate breakfast, excellent innovation!, lunch and supper. Congratulations and thanks to you all
August 2019
Wonderful location, freshly prepared good food. Friendly staff.
August 2019
Good quality food, freshly prepared and trying to cater for many tastes. Friendly staff and atmosphere.
August 2019
Absolutely fantastic food in a glorious waterside location. Pretty unbeatable. Thank you. Quick service too.
July 2019
had great evening meal while listening to the Oggies! Staff friendly despite how busy it was
July 2019
The Ferryboat was excellent delicious food and a great atmosphere. Staff helpful and friendly and obviously a view to die for.
June 2019
Lovely food with wonderful views of the Helford River.
June 2019
The Cornish Food Box Company
(2 miles)
(4)
A fabulous way to get amazing Cornish food & drink delivered for your holiday, The Cornish Food Box Company makes it really easy for you to pick from over 2000 local products online and have them delivered direct to your holiday cottage. Order before you come down and the team will even unpack and put everything away for you before you arrive. The Cornish Food Box Company works with more than 250 local producers and farmers and sell everything from local veg, fruit and free range meat to sparkling wines, seafood, cheeses and much more. Delivery across Cornwall and the UK every week.
*COVID-19 UPDATE* Due to Covid-19 restrictions we are not able to offer our unpacking service at this time. If you are not able to be available for delivery we can pack into chilled boxes which can be left safe for your arrival. Please contact us for more information.
Click here for further details
*£5 off any order over £50 with code TOADHALL
Very good service, and excellent idea as there is no shop nearby.
February 2024
yjyjryjdrt
March 2021
very good
March 2021
Excellent find! Lovely cream tea, probably the best scones ever. Delightful cook/owner; quirky, quaint eatery and very good food shopping. Well worth a visit.
August 2019
Mawnan Craft Centre
(Less than a mile)
An authentic, centuries old smithy which has been restored as a working forge, offering you the chance to watch a skilled blacksmith, sign-writer, silversmith and furniture maker as they work and browse their unique, hand-crafted products. There’s also an exhibition where you can learn all about the history of Mawnan Smith and the restoration of its smithy.
Mawnan Craft Centre, Carwinion Road, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR11 5JF
Falmouth Surf School & Watersports
(Less than a mile)
(4)
Falmouth Surf School offer adult surf lessons and hire along with transport on the ‘Surf Bus’ to Cornwall’s best surfing beaches. From their base at Maenporth Beach they also offer SUP boarding, SUP Yoga and Kayaking hire and tuition, and can deliver equipment direct to your holiday cottage.
Click here for further details
Enjoy a 10% discount with your Toad Hall Cottages discount card
Really helpful chaps and reasonably priced hire
August 2023
Fantastic surfing experience. They were extremely helpful and wanted you to get the most out of the time.
June 2022
Brilliant experience
July 2021
Excellent hire from the guys. Paddle boards and kayaks hired with buoyancy aids at very good prices. Great fun by all.
July 2021
Nays Yoga
(Less than a mile)
Friendly SUP yoga classes at Maenporth Beach with experienced teacher Nay. Run from 1st August.
Click here for further information
Glendurgan Garden
(2 miles)
(6)
Run by the National Trust, Glendurgan Gardens span over three valleys, filled with sub-tropical plants, exotic flowers and bright blooms. The peaceful gardens lead down to the unspoilt beachside hamlet of Durgan. Here you can take a rest and enjoy the stunning views of the Helford River, treat yourself to an ice cream, build sandcastles and watch the wildlife on the water. Glendurgan Garden offer a great day out for the entire family thanks to its impressive maze and Giant’s Stride rope swing, shop and teahouse, which serves traditional Cornish cream teas, light lunches and Children’s meals.
Glendurgan Garden, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR115JZ (T: 01326 252020)
No dogs allowed
September 2023
We would love to visit Glendurgan, but cannot do so until they become dog-friendly. In contrast, Trebah gardens nearby allow dogs and they do not appear to cause any problems.
May 2023
Brilliant place run by the National Trust - rhodos,etc were finished so do book your holiday for end of April, spring Bank holiday if its spring flowering stuff you want to see -
May 2022
Beautiful gardens. Enjoyable walk down the gully to the village and beach. Then the steep walk back! Lovely sub tropical plants, nice cafe at the top
May 2022
Beautiful gardens with lovely cafe and second hand bookshop.
October 2021
Gardens have been kept lovely but unfortunately there were staff shortages so long queues for food or ice cream. There were no plants to buy this year but that is hardly surprising. The staff all worked very hard to make the visit pleasant. They deserve a medal!
September 2021
Trebah Garden
(2 miles)
(9)
The subtropical valleys of Trebah Gardens offer a fantastic day out for the whole family. Four miles of footpath lead through canopies of exotic trees, plants and flowers which cascade down to a private, secluded beach on the Helford River. Here, you can take in the views, relax on the beach and enjoy a famous Roskilly’s Cornish ice cream from the Boathouse Cafe. There are adventure playgrounds and children’s trails to keep the youngest members of the family entertained, and dogs (on leads) are welcome in the gardens and on the beach all year round. As well as a visitor centre and shop, there’s a fantastic café, Trebah Kitchen, which serves locally sourced, seasonal food. Trebah is also home to an amphitheatre where you can catch music, dance, theatre and comedy performances.
Trebah Garden, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR11 5JZ (T: 01326 252200)
Beautiful garden, exotic planting with a Gigantic Gunnera passage which was a surprise. Gorgeous private beach and interesting plant shop.
July 2023
We walked to these gardens - so beautiful! Had a lovely coffee on arrival in the garden cafe and also visited the beach for an ice cream
June 2023
Beautiful garden!
July 2022
Excellent garden and the beach the icing on the caje
May 2022
Honestly the most amazing garden I've ever seen. Stunning.
April 2022
Disappointed that we were not able to visit as they were only open on select days and you had to book your visit beforehand. We hope this will get better in the future as we missed being able to to fit a visit in this time.
September 2021
Stunning gardens with a beach at the end. Great shade on those days when it is blisteringly hot. Also contains two small playgrounds for little ones.
July 2021
something for everyone even on a damp day
November 2019
A must to see, great for gardeners and photographers alike. Do check café times when you first go in.
July 2019
Maenporth Beach
(Less than a mile)
(38)
A scenic sweep of golden sand flanked by cliffs, this family friendly beach looks out across Falmouth Bay towards Pendennis Castle and the lighthouse at St Anthony Head. There’s plenty of sand and shallow water which is great for children and excellent facilities, including a cafe selling great food and beach equipment, plus toilets and car park. Maenporth is also a lovely spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard, both of which can be hired on the beach during summer months. Dogs allowed from October to Easter Sunday.
Fantastic beach
April 2024
Lovely and clean, beautiful.
October 2023
Absolutely loved Maenporth. Lovely sheltered beach with fantastic cafe
August 2023
Lovely beach but early morning dog owners do not on occasion clean up on their dogs. We had to borrow a shovel on two occasions to clear the mess
August 2023
If you think this will be a quiet, hidden gem then you’d couldn’t be more wrong. It’s a very busy, active beach with lots to do and changing tides. We felt very blessed to be staying so close so we didn’t have to arrive super early to get a car parking space. Loved how safe it felt most of time, except when the fog came rolling in as fast as a wave! Enjoyed paddling, swimming, rock-pooling, playing with local dogs (after hours), someone built an incredible pyramid sandcastle which the kids and adults enjoyed.
August 2023
This beach is beautiful! Not too busy and everything is within a short distance.
July 2023
My favourite beach. Sunrise from here is something else!
April 2023
Used the beach but time off visit big waves so paddle boarding out off the question but had great fun on the body boards. Not a crowed beach parking prices reasonable, parking right on the beach .
September 2022
Lovely beach our third year in a row. The only problem which is not unique to this beach, is weaver fish. I do think visitors need to be made more aware of the adviseability of wearing beach shoes to protect against this problem. I think all beaches should have signs to this effect.
August 2022
Mix of sand and shingle beach. Quite a bit of seaweed when we were there but of the lettuce type so not too problematic. Not much in the way of waves so not good for body boarding but good for paddle boards or kayaks and swimming. Nice little take out cafe.
August 2022
Lovely beach and so convenient to Maenporth Estate. Shame about the seaweed that arrived! But beautiful nonetheless.
August 2022
Lovely beach
July 2022
Wonderful beach, very clean. Lovely view , didn’t use coffee shop so can’t comment.
June 2022
A lovely, perfect beach, ideal for everyone and great for rock pooling. Really clean too.
June 2022
Beautiful...although it did say no dogs, and there were plenty!
June 2022
Love this beach never tire of the view
October 2021
Lovely 'out of the way' beach with great outlook. Can be a bit 'smelly' when the tide it out in the lagoon nearby but does not distract from the beach or surrounds.
September 2021
Beautiful beach a hidden gem
September 2021
Great beach with a mix of sand and stones. Interesting caves when the tide is out. The tide goes out quite far so a bit of a walk to the sea but great for kids and adults alike.
September 2021
Lovely secluded beach -safe for children and doing water sports. Cafe and toilets nearby. Only downside no tap to wash sand off feet.
September 2021
Beautiful
September 2021
A bustling and busy sandy beach offering water sports and swimming and yet without the crowds of other parts of Cornwall. The coastal walks from there are glorious too.
September 2021
Great beach.
August 2021
Love this beach. It’s just stunning. Definitely returning.
August 2021
This is a great beach for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, exploring caves and rock pooling. Clean clear water, easy car parking and toilets plus a little cafe.
July 2021
Nice beach but disappointed that many dogs were running free on it. Witnessed several dogs pooing on the beach. This is supposed to be a dog free beach from Easter to October and I visited in June. Does no one police this blatant ignoring of the rules?!!
July 2021
Lovely Sandy beach with great cafe, toilets, parking and coast paths to enjoy.
July 2021
Fantastic holiday in a beautiful location. The holiday home was spacious, clean & the whole site was Covid friendly. We chose this holiday as we felt it was the safest option during these difficult times and everything about it came up to & beyond our expectations. My granddaughter especially enjoyed using the children's playground & indoor pool. The booking procedure and use of the swimming pool was ideal. Well organised. Many, many thanks. We came home feeling relaxed after a great week.
September 2020
Best beach in the area, its like been on a Greek island when the sun is shining
September 2020
Better beach than Swan pool, ideal for young children, gently sloping, perfect for water sports
August 2020
Really convenient if staying at maenporth estate. Mix of sand, shingle and rocks. Great for rock pooling. Calm sea so safe for families and watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking. Wasn't overcrowded even when very warm!
August 2020
Beautiful quiet cove idyllic spot
July 2020
great beach complete with smugglers cave
November 2019
Lovely beach with decent facilities, but beach needs regular cleaning even after bank Holiday week
September 2019
This is a fabulous family friendly beach as it is quite sheltered. A great place to paddle board, relax and eat ice cream! You do need to get there early as the car park and beach fills up really quickly. I would also recommend beach shoes as several people were stung by weaver fish who were hiding in the sand as the tide went out. Definitely worth a visit ????
August 2019
Perfect beach
June 2019
Lovely beach ,best off season.
June 2019
A beautiful beach and wonderful setting.
June 2019
Nansidwell Beach (Woodlands Beach)
(Less than a mile)
Found between Maenporth and Mawnan Smith, this is a small, pretty sandy beach with some shingle and rocks accessed by footpath from the road. It’s a five to ten minute walk, meaning the beach itself is often quiet and uncrowded with lovely swimming. No amenities though and the walk isn’t suitable for buggies or those with limited mobility. Also known as Woodlands Beach. Dogs allowed all year round.
Bream Cove
(Less than a mile)
A pretty sheltered cove in a secluded setting surrounded by low cliffs and woodland, Bream Cove consists of a sand and shingle beach dipping down to clear water with excellent swimming and snorkelling. At low water rock pools are exposed which children will love to explore and it’s possible to scramble over the rocks to the sandy beach next door at Gatamala Cove. There are no facilities here and no car park, but there are parking spaces on the nearby road between Maenporth and Rosemullion Head close to the Meuden Hotel, with access to the beach via footpath. Dogs welcome all year.
Grebe Beach
(2 miles)
(1)
A quiet and secluded shingle beach on the Helford River in between the villages of Durgan and Mawnan. Access is via a short woodland walk from Durgan and then a steep path down to the beach, which means it’s rarely crowded and ideal if you prefer peace and quiet to cafes and facilities, of which there are none. The water is safe for swimming here and there are rocky outcrops to explore and jump off. It’s worth bearing in mind though that while there is a large beach at low water, with the highest tides it’s completely covered. Dogs welcome all year round.
This beach would probably be a problem for pushchairs but is a little more secluded. We met a lot of dog walkers.
September 2021
Durgan Beach
(2 miles)
(1)
Owned by the National Trust, the scattering of cottages that make up the tiny village of Durgan form a pretty backdrop to this sand and shingle beach. With stunning views in both directions over the Helford River, Durgan has strong boating links and there is a slipway running down to the beach and moorings offshore. This south facing beach is a peaceful place to relax on the sand and watch the boats go by while children play in the rockpools. If you forget your bucket, spade or net you can borrow one from the National Trust Fish Cellar building which also sells teas, coffee and ice creams during the summer months. Like many of the beaches along the Helford, Durgan Beach is almost entirely covered during the highest tides so keep an eye on the tide times. There is no parking in Durgan itself, however, there is a carpark on the main road and signposted path to the village and beach. Dogs welcome all year round.
We visited a couple of times. It was just as good as ever. National Trust staff could not man the shop on the beach during one visit so we really missed our ice cream treat on that occasion!
September 2021
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