Where to Stay in South West England: Best Areas, Towns & Accommodation

Where to stay in South West England depends on the kind of trip you want. From coastal towns and surf beaches to rural retreats, historic cities and harbour villages, the region offers some of the best places to stay in South West England for every style, budget and itinerary.

This guide helps you choose the best areas to stay in South West England, whether you want a beach base, a short-break city, a walking holiday, or somewhere you can explore without a car.

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Best Areas to Stay in South West England

Cornwall
Best for dramatic coastline, surf beaches and harbour towns. Popular bases include St Ives, Falmouth and Newquay, depending on whether you want art and scenery, food and harbours, or beaches and surfing.

Devon
Best for variety, with two coastlines, estuaries, countryside and city bases. Exeter is good for transport and day trips, North Devon suits beach and walking holidays, and South Devon offers harbours, estuaries and a slower coastal pace.

Somerset
Best for historic cities, countryside and quieter short breaks. Bath is ideal for a city stay, while Wells, Glastonbury and Exmoor offer more rural and scenic bases.

Dorset
Best for the Jurassic Coast, seaside towns and short coastal breaks. Weymouth, Lyme Regis and areas near Dorchester are strong choices for beaches, walking and easy access.

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Best Areas to Stay in South West England at a Glance

Here is a quick comparison of the best areas to stay in South West England

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How to Choose Where to Stay in South West England

Choosing where to stay in South West England depends on how you plan to travel and what you want to see. Distances can be deceptive, and journeys often take longer than expected, especially in summer when traffic builds on routes such as the M5, A30 and A303.

For most trips, it is better to choose one or two bases rather than trying to cover the whole region from a single location. Staying in one area allows you to explore properly without spending too much time driving.

If your focus is the coast, stay close to the South West Coast Path or within easy reach of beaches and harbour towns. For countryside and walking, Dartmoor, Exmoor and inland areas of Devon and Somerset offer quieter bases.

City stays in places such as Exeter or Bath work if you want strong transport links and a range of attractions, while smaller coastal towns suit slower-paced breaks.

If you are travelling without a car, choose a rail-connected base such as Exeter, Plymouth, Newquay or Taunton to make getting around easier.

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Best Areas to Stay for Beaches

For beach-focused trips, North Devon and Cornwall are the standout choices. Areas such as Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton in North Devon are known for wide sandy beaches and surf, while Cornwall offers a variety of sheltered coves and larger beach towns, including Newquay and St Ives. In Dorset, Weymouth and Bournemouth provide more traditional seaside settings with easy access.

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Best Areas to Stay for Walking

For walking holidays, the South West Coast Path is the main draw, with excellent bases along the Devon, Cornwall and Dorset coast. Inland, Dartmoor and Exmoor offer quieter routes, open landscapes and a different style of walking. Staying close to your planned routes can save significant travel time each day.

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Best Areas to Stay for Short Breaks

For shorter trips, it helps to stay somewhere with good transport links. Exeter, Bath and Bristol are accessible bases, while coastal towns such as Sidmouth, Lyme Regis, Exmouth, or Falmouth suit relaxed weekend breaks without long drives.

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Best Areas to Stay Without a Car

If you are travelling without a car, choose a base with strong rail and bus connections. Exeter, Plymouth, Newquay and Taunton are good options, with onward connections to coastal towns and countryside. From these hubs, you can explore much of the region using trains, buses and local ferries.

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Self-Catering Cottages and Holiday Homes

When thinking about where to stay in South West England, self-catering cottages and holiday homes remain one of the region’s most popular choices. Across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, you can pick from cosy fishermen’s cottages overlooking the sea, converted barns in rolling countryside, modern coastal apartments, woodland cabins, farm stays and architect-designed houses with sweeping views.

These flexible stays offer a home-from-home feel and suit families, couples, walkers, and anyone planning a longer break in the South West.

Why self-catering works so well in the South West

People choose self-catering for the freedom it provides. You can eat when you like, come and go at your own pace, and make the most of the region’s outstanding produce, whether that’s buying fresh fish on the Cornish coast, enjoying farm shop finds in Devon, or enjoying Somerset cider with local cheese.

Larger cottages give families and groups valuable space, while pet-friendly properties make it easy to bring the dog along on coastal-path adventures. For longer holidays, self-catering often offers excellent value compared with hotels, especially during peak season.

What to look for when booking self-catering

Before choosing your stay, check the facilities closely; Wi-Fi, parking, a dishwasher, a washing machine, and outdoor space can make a big difference. Read recent independent reviews, look carefully at parking arrangements (essential in busy seaside towns), and think about accessibility if staying in older cottages. Popular coastal spots book up months ahead in summer, while winter breaks favour places with log burners and sea views. Group sizes are well catered for, from compact boltholes to big homes sleeping 10 or more.

Making the most of your stay

The best places to stay in South West England give you easy access to beaches, moors, harbours, walking routes and historic villages. The National Trust is a superb resource for exploring nearby landscapes, gardens, and heritage sites, and it also offers its own collection of unique self-catering properties in spectacular locations.

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Seaside Hotels and Coastal Breaks

For many travellers searching for where to stay in South West England, a seaside hotel sits right at the top of the wishlist. The region’s coastline is one of the most spectacular in the UK, stretching from the dramatic cliffs of North Cornwall to the sheltered coves of Devon and the wide sandy bays of Dorset. Along this coastline, you’ll find everything from grand Victorian hotels gazing out over promenades to stylish boutique retreats perched above the sea.

Seaside hotels offer effortless holiday convenience: no cooking, no clearing up, and a welcome collection of little luxuries such as spas, indoor pools, sea-view terraces and relaxed dining. They make an excellent choice for romantic weekend breaks, family-friendly beach escapes or classic British coast holidays where the only decision you need to make is which viewpoint to enjoy your sunset from.

Why Choose a Seaside Hotel

Coastal hotels offer sea views, convenience and a sense of place that is hard to match elsewhere. Many have terraces, pools, spas or on-site dining, making them well-suited to romantic breaks, family seaside holidays and short stays where you want everything taken care of. In towns such as Torquay, Sidmouth, Bournemouth and Falmouth, they also offer a strong connection to the South West’s long seaside tradition.

Types of Seaside Hotels

The South West has a wide range of coastal hotels, from traditional seafront properties with period character to smaller boutique stays focused on design and food. There are also spa hotels with pools and wellness facilities, family-friendly hotels near safe beaches, and higher-end country-house hotels near the coast. Standards and style vary widely, so recent reviews are worth checking carefully before you book.

Seaside hotels often command premium prices in summer, especially in Devon and Cornwall, but there can be good deals outside peak season. Flexibility with dates helps.

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Luxury Spa Hotels and Country House Stays

For those looking to treat themselves, the South West is home to some truly indulgent places to stay. Luxury hotels and spa retreats are scattered across the region, from clifftop escapes in Cornwall to elegant Georgian townhouses in Bath.

These stays are designed for relaxation, with facilities such as infinity pools, thermal suites, and treatments inspired by the sea and countryside. Many combine wellness with fine dining, showcasing fresh local produce in stylish restaurants that make the hotel itself as much a part of the holiday as the destination.

Alongside these modern retreats, the South West also has a fine selection of historic country house hotels that have been transformed into high-end hotels or guest estates. Think sweeping driveways, landscaped gardens, helicopter landing pads, golf courses and grand interiors with four-poster beds and crackling fires.

Staying in a country house hotel offers a taste of classic English elegance, often blended with contemporary comforts and spa facilities. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic getaway, or simply want to immerse yourself in the region’s heritage with a touch of luxury, these hotels, spas, and houses provide unforgettable settings that turn a trip into something extraordinary.

For inspiration, visit countryhotelbreaks.com or offpeakluxury.com

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City Break Stays

While the South West is best known for its coastline and countryside, its cities and larger towns across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset also make excellent bases for a short break.

Exeter blends a lively cultural scene with its striking cathedral, independent shops, and quick access to Dartmoor and the East Devon coast. Plymouth offers a deep maritime heritage, panoramic waterfront walks, and easy routes into both South East Cornwall and the nearby moorland landscapes. In Somerset, Bath provides one of the most elegant city experiences in the UK, with its Georgian crescents, thermal spas and Roman history. Wells and Taunton offer quieter alternatives with character, history and good connections. Dorset’s county town of Dorchester, along with coastal hubs such as Weymouth, gives easy access to the Jurassic Coast alongside great food and relaxed seaside atmospheres.

Accommodation in these towns and cities ranges from boutique hotels and converted townhouses to serviced apartments and familiar brands, making them ideal for weekend breaks.

You can explore museums in the morning, enjoy cafés or markets in the afternoon, and settle into a good restaurant or theatre in the evening. These bases also make superb jumping-off points for wider exploration. From Exeter, you can reach Dartmoor, Exmouth and the Jurassic Coast with ease; from Plymouth, you can dip into Cornwall or South Devon; from Bath, you’re close to the Mendips, Cheddar Gorge and Glastonbury; and from Dorchester or Weymouth, you have the Jurassic Coast on your doorstep. Staying in a town or city gives you convenience, atmosphere and plenty of choice, while keeping the region’s coastline, countryside and attractions within easy reach.

Pubs with Rooms

There’s nothing quite like staying in a decent Westcountry pub. The South West boasts many centuries-old pubs, inns, and coaching houses, offering visitors welcoming accommodation, traditional pub food, local beers and ciders, and a comfortable stay. These can be among the best places to stay in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset.

From thatched village pubs tucked away in the Devon countryside to bustling harbourside inns in Cornwall, these stays offer proper character. You can enjoy a fireside pint in the evening, a decent night’s sleep, and wake up to a full English breakfast the next morning.

Pubs make great places to explore the South West. Many are located in small towns or villages, close to walking routes such as the South West Coast Path or the long-distance paths across Dartmoor and Exmoor. They suit couples looking for a little authentic charm and character, walkers and cyclists wanting a convenient, and often inexpensive, overnight stop, and anyone keen to get a flavour of local life. With a combination of traditional settings and modern refurbishments, staying in a pub strikes a balance between comfort and character that’s hard to beat.

Bed and Breakfasts in South West England

How B&Bs Became Part of South West Travel

Nothing captures the charm of a South West break quite like staying at a traditional bed-and-breakfast. Whether it’s a traditional farmhouse in Somerset, a Georgian townhouse in Exeter, or a harbourside B&B in Cornwall, these stays offer character, comfort and a friendly local welcome.

The modern B&B evolved during the Victorian seaside boom of the 19th century. With new railway lines bringing visitors to coastal towns such as Torquay, Weymouth and Falmouth, families began opening spare rooms to guests and serving simple home-cooked breakfasts. After the Second World War, B&Bs flourished as affordable, homely accommodation during the rationing years, helping families earn extra income in popular villages, towns and seaside resorts across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.

What to Expect from a B&B Today

Today, B&Bs in South West England come in all styles. Some remain traditional, with a handful of guest rooms, friendly hosts and a freshly cooked breakfast each morning. Others feel closer to boutique hotels, which offer stylish interiors, luxury bedding, homemade treats, and even fine dining. No matter the style, the core remains the same: a warm welcome, a comfortable bed and a proper breakfast to start the day.

Breakfast is often a highlight, with many B&Bs using local produce: free-range eggs, Westcountry bacon, fresh pastries and homemade jams. Hosts are also invaluable for insider tips on local walks, hidden beaches, scenic drives and the best pubs nearby.

How to Choose and Book a B&B

Many B&Bs list their rooms on sites like Booking.com, while others rely on their own websites or traditional Vacancies/No Vacancies signs. A quick search for phrases such as “B&B in Sidmouth”, “bed and breakfast in St Ives” or “farmhouse B&B on Dartmoor” will reveal plenty of options. TripAdvisor is also a helpful place to check independent reviews, especially for B&Bs that do not appear on booking platforms.

Because B&Bs are independent, they vary significantly in price, facilities and style. Before booking, think about what matters most: location, en-suite bathrooms, parking (essential in seaside towns), breakfast options, views, gardens or guest lounges. Always read reviews to ensure the experience matches your expectations.

Many B&Bs have tighter check-in windows than hotels, especially those run by a single host or family. If you expect to arrive late, it’s sensible to call ahead.

As ever in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset, booking early is wise during Easter, bank holidays and the summer season, when the best B&Bs fill up fast.

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Farm Stays and Rural Retreats

If you’re craving peace and a real sense of rural life, a farm stay in the South West might be precisely what you need. Across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset, many working farms now welcome visitors, offering everything from beautifully converted barns and self-catering cottages to simple farmhouse rooms with proper Westcountry breakfasts made from local produce.

These stays put you right in the middle of the countryside, surrounded by fields, wildlife and big skies, with footpaths, bridleways and village pubs usually close at hand. They’re ideal for walkers, families who want space for children to roam, and anyone who wants to slow down and reconnect with nature. Many farms also offer extras such as animal feeding, cream-tea afternoons, farm shops, cycling routes and stargazing on clear nights, making them some of the most authentic, peaceful places to stay in South West England.

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Camping, Glamping and Caravan Holidays

Of course, traditional camping holidays in the South West are still hugely popular. Pitching a tent by the sea or setting up a caravan in a rural field is a classic way to experience the region and one that we still enjoy.

Camping and caravanning can be significantly more affordable than hotels or cottages, especially for families or those with extended stays. You can pitch up, cook your own meals, and set your own pace. Many campsites also allow you to choose between bustling family-friendly sites and quiet, back-to-nature pitches. For generations, camping holidays have been a British staple, from childhood summer trips to the seaside to touring caravan adventures.

Types of Camping and Caravan Stay

• Traditional Tent Camping: Bring your own tent, sleeping bags and equipment. Great for families, groups or budget-conscious travellers. Many campsites offer toilets, showers and sometimes a small shop or cafe.
• Glamping: Glamping, short for glamorous camping, has exploded in popularity in recent years, and the South West is one of the best regions in the UK for it. Options include safari tents, yurts, pods, shepherd’s huts, and even treehouses. Many come with proper beds (and bedding), wood-burning stoves, and fairy lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Some sites even add luxurious touches, such as private hot tubs.
• Caravanning: Touring caravans and motorhomes are very popular in the South West. Many sites have electric hook-ups, water points, and disposal facilities. Caravan holidays suit those who like comfort on the road; you take your “home” with you.
• Static Caravans: Also known as holiday caravans, these are fixed on-site and usually come fully equipped (kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms). They’re a good middle ground between camping and a lodge stay.
• Campervans: Perfect for road trips, campervans let you tour the region freely, parking up at designated sites overnight. They’re popular with surfers in North Devon and Cornwall.

Helpful Resources for Camping and Caravan Holidays

• Pitchup: One of the UK’s biggest campsite booking platforms. Covers everything from basic tent pitches to glamping pods, static caravans, and touring caravan sites across the South West.
• Campsites.co.uk: A dedicated UK directory with filters for dog-friendly, family-friendly, coastal, and luxury sites.
• The Camping and Caravanning Club: Membership-based, but non-members can book too. Offers access to over 100 UK club sites and 1,500 smaller certified sites.
• The Caravan and Motorhome Club: Specialises in sites for caravans and motorhomes, with a huge network across the South West.
• Airbnb is increasingly listing glamping pods, cabins, and even quirky caravan stays.
• Yescapa: Peer-to-peer motorhome and campervan rental platform (like Airbnb for vans). Wide choice, insurance included.
• Indie Campers: International hire company with pick-ups in Bristol and across the UK. Modern vans with flexible mileage packages.

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Holiday Parks and Lodges

Holiday parks have long been a favourite choice for families visiting the South West, offering the independence of self-catering while providing the convenience of on-site facilities. Scattered along the coasts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset, these parks often sit in prime locations close to beaches, countryside walks, or busy seaside towns. They’re designed to make holidays easy and fun, with everything from swimming pools and kids’ clubs to evening entertainment and restaurants right on the doorstep.

The accommodation itself varies widely. Static caravans are the classic option, but lodges and cabins have become increasingly popular, often offering more space and a touch of luxury. Many modern lodges feature open-plan living, private decking, hot tubs, and even sea views, making them a comfortable base after a day of exploring.

For larger families or multigenerational groups, holiday parks are particularly appealing: children can make friends and enjoy organised activities, while adults relax knowing everything they need is close at hand. Whether you’re after a lively park packed with facilities or a quiet woodland lodge with nothing but peace, quiet and the countryside outside your window, the South West has something to suit every style of holiday.

Helpful Resources for Holiday Parks and Lodges

Best for Families

• Parkdean Resorts – large, family-friendly parks with pools, entertainment, and kids’ clubs.
• Haven Holidays – coastal holiday parks packed with activities, restaurants, and beach access.
• Hoseasons – family lodges and parks with both budget and mid-range options.

Luxury Lodges & Relaxation

• VRBO – private lodges and woodland retreats, often with luxury touches and secluded settings.
• Holidaycottages.co.uk – stylish lodges, often with hot tubs, modern interiors, and countryside views.
• Cottages.com – includes premium lodges and cabins alongside traditional cottages.

Best for Budget-Friendly Stays

• Booking.com – broad coverage with flexible filters, often suitable for last-minute deals and comparing prices.
• Pitchup – although best known for camping, it also lists static caravans and lodge-style units at affordable sites.

Budget Accommodation: YHA, Hostels, and Bunkhouses

Exploring the South West doesn’t have to break the bank. The region offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodations that keep you close to the coast, countryside, and trails. For walkers, surfers, cyclists, and backpackers, these simple stays offer everything you need: a comfortable bed, hot showers, and often a communal kitchen to cook up a hearty meal at the end of the day.

The YHA (Youth Hostel Association) has a strong presence in the South West, with hostels in some spectacular locations. You’ll find YHAs perched above Cornish beaches, tucked into Dartmoor villages, and sitting right on the South West Coast Path. They’re a brilliant option if you are looking for affordable, family-friendly accommodation in prime locations. Facilities typically include dormitory beds and private rooms, self-catering kitchens, and relaxed lounges where you can meet others, often with the bonus of cafés or bars. You don’t need to be a member to book; however, members receive a discount.

Beyond the YHA network, there’s a wealth of independent hostels and bunkhouses. These vary from surf lodges in Newquay and Bude to basic bunkhouses on working farms in Devon or Somerset. Some are geared towards outdoor enthusiasts, offering drying rooms, secure bike storage, and packed lunches for walkers. Others are more sociable, with shared spaces where you can swap travel stories over a beer or plan the next day’s adventure with fellow guests.

Affordable, flexible, and often in some of the most scenic spots in the South West, hostels and bunkhouses provide a brilliant base for anyone looking to stretch their budget without compromising on experience.

Helpful Resources for Budget Stays

YHA.org.uk – official site for Youth Hostels, with hostels in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset.

Hostelworld – a global booking site, useful for independent hostels and surf lodges.

Independent Hostels UK – directory of privately run hostels, bunkhouses, and camping barns across the South West.

Booking.com – many budget hostels and bunkhouses are also listed here, alongside hotels and B&Bs.

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Top Tips for Booking Accommodation in South West England

Booking early is essential for peak periods. Summer holidays, bank holiday weekends and popular coastal locations in Devon and Cornwall often sell out months in advance.

At the same time, avoid locking in every night too far ahead if you are touring. Keeping some flexibility allows you to stay longer in places you enjoy. Many properties offer free cancellation, which makes this easier.

Travelling in May, June or September usually means lower prices, fewer crowds and more availability. Midweek stays can also be better value.

Match your accommodation to your trip style. Holiday parks, cottages and campsites suit families, while boutique B&Bs, pubs with rooms and spa hotels are popular with couples. Larger houses and lodges are ideal for groups.

Always check what is included before booking. Parking is important in coastal towns, Wi-Fi can be limited in rural areas, and facilities vary widely between properties.

Reading recent independent reviews gives a clearer picture of what to expect, especially for smaller or independent places to stay.

Location matters. Decide whether you want to be in a lively seaside town, a quiet rural setting or a well-connected city. Also consider access, as narrow country lanes can be challenging for larger vehicles.

If possible, book directly with the accommodation and check major platforms as well. This can sometimes offer better terms and support smaller businesses.

If you are travelling without a car, stay in a location with good rail or bus links, such as Bath, Bristol, Exeter or Plymouth, and check timetables in advance.

If you are booking late in summer, consider looking beyond the busiest hotspots. Quieter parts of Somerset or East Devon can offer better value and a more relaxed experience.

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FAQs: Where to Stay in South West England

Where are the best places to stay in South West England?

The best place to stay depends on your trip. Cornwall and North Devon suit surf beaches and wild coastline, while South Devon and Dorset are ideal for classic seaside holidays. Somerset and inland Devon offer quieter countryside and villages. Cities such as Bath, Bristol, Exeter and Plymouth offer for culture and transport links. Across the region, you can choose from cottages, B&Bs, pubs with rooms, holiday parks, hostels and luxury hotels.

Which area is best for a first visit?

For a first visit, choose a base that combines coast, countryside and easy travel. South Devon, North Cornwall, East Devon are all possibilities. These locations offer good transport, plenty of accommodation and easy access to beaches, walking routes and attractions.

What type of accommodation should I choose?

Self catering cottages and holiday homes suit families and longer stays. Seaside hotels are great for short breaks, while pubs with rooms and B&Bs offer character and local knowledge. Farm stays and rural retreats are ideal for quiet escapes. Holiday parks suit families, and hostels or bunkhouses are good for lower cost trips.

Where should families stay?

Families benefit from space, simple food options and access to safe beaches or attractions. Holiday parks, larger cottages, farm stays and family friendly seaside hotels are all good choices. North Devon, North Cornwall, South Devon, Weymouth and the Jurassic Coast are particularly popular.

Where is best for couples or a romantic break?

Couples often prefer smaller coastal towns, villages or rural settings with good food and views. Boutique B&Bs, pubs with rooms, glamping stays and spa hotels in Cornwall, South Devon, Dartmoor, Exmoor, the Jurassic Coast and around Bath are all strong options. Spring and autumn are especially good for quieter, more relaxed stays.

Can I visit without a car?

Yes. Staying in a well connected town or city such as Bath, Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, Torquay, Newquay or Weymouth makes travel easier. From these, you can reach coastal towns and countryside by train, bus or organised tours. Choose accommodation close to transport links and check timetables in advance.

What are the most budget friendly places to stay?

Budget options include hostels, YHA properties, simple B&Bs, bunkhouses, campsites and basic holiday parks. These are often in excellent locations at lower cost. City based budget hotels can also offer good value outside peak periods.

When should I book accommodation?

Book well ahead for summer holidays, bank holidays and popular coastal areas, as accommodation can sell out months in advance. For spring and autumn, you can often book later. If you need specific features such as parking, dog friendly stays or hot tubs, book early at any time of year.

Is it better to stay in one base or move around?

A single base suits shorter trips and allows you to explore locally without repacking. For longer holidays, consider two or three bases. Distances can be longer than they appear, so avoid trying to cover too much in a short time.

How do I choose the right place to stay?

Start with your priorities, coast, countryside or city, then consider how you will travel. Match accommodation to your style and budget, check key facilities such as parking and Wi-Fi, and read recent reviews. Choosing a well located base makes the rest of your trip much easier.

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Conclusion

South West England offers somewhere to stay for every kind of trip, from seaside hotels and B&Bs to cottages, holiday parks, rural retreats and city bases. The key is choosing the right area first, then matching the accommodation to your trip style, budget, and how you plan to travel.

If you want beaches and harbour towns, focus on Cornwall, North Devon, South Devon or Dorset. If you want walking, countryside and slower-paced breaks, consider Dartmoor, Exmoor, Somerset or inland Devon. For convenience and transport links, Exeter, Bath, Bristol and Plymouth all make strong bases.

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Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.