Best Places to Stay in South West England

The South West of England is the UK’s most visited holiday region, attracting around 16 million visitors each year. With stunning coastlines, rolling countryside, picturesque villages, and lively cities, it offers a getaway for every type of traveller. But before you pack your bags, there’s one key decision to make: where to stay in the South West of England.

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Self-Catering in the South West

When people think of holidays in Devon, Cornwall, or Dorset, it’s often a cottage that comes to mind. Self-catering is one of the most popular choices for visitors to the South West.

You’ll find everything from tiny fishermen’s cottages by the sea to sprawling converted barns in the countryside. Other options include apartments and flats, often located in seaside towns and villages, as well as lodges and cabins in holiday parks or woodland settings, and more modern houses.

Why People Choose Self-Catering in the South West

• Flexibility: You’re not tied to set meal times, so you can eat when it suits you. That’s handy after a long day on the beach in Cornwall or a late evening walk on Dartmoor.
• Local Flavours: The South West is renowned for its diverse produce – including Cornish pasties, Devonshire cream teas, Somerset cider, and Dorset seafood. Self-catering allows you the chance to shop at farmers’ markets or village shops and enjoy the experience at your own pace.
• Space: For families or groups, cottages and lodges offer more room than hotels – multiple bedrooms, gardens for children, and communal areas for socialising.
• Pet-Friendly: Many self-catering cottages in the Southwest are dog-friendly, especially those located near coastal paths and beaches.

Value for Money

Especially on longer stays, self-catering can work out cheaper than eating out daily or booking multiple hotel rooms.

Things to Consider When Booking Self-Catering

• Facilities – Check what’s included: dishwasher, washing machine, Wi-Fi, parking.
• Reviews – Look for independent reviews on sites such as TripAdvisor.
• Car Parking – Is it included (essential in the busy resorts), on-street, or will you have to find a parking space?
• Accessibility – Some older cottages have steep stairs or low beams.
• Season – In summer, coastal cottages book up months in advance; in winter, cottages with log burners are in demand.
• Group Size – Properties range from tiny one-bedroom places to large houses sleeping 10+ guests.
• Location – Decide if you want a base by the sea, on the moors, or in a busier town.

To explore the wider area around your cottage, consider resources like the National Trust, which lists historic houses, gardens, and walks across the South West. They also offer self-catering holiday accommodation of their own in some truly spectacular places.

Helpful Resources:

• Booking.com – Our go-to for nearly all things accommodation.
• Sykes Holiday Cottages – A well-known UK platform offering over 20,000 listings of self-catering holiday cottages across the UK and Ireland, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious options.
• Holidaycottages.co.uk – Specialises in handpicked holiday cottages.
• Cottages.com – Offers an extensive selection of cottages across beautiful destinations.
• Rural Retreats – Focuses on high-end, luxury self-catering cottages—hand-picked for character, comfort, and great locations.
• Original Cottages – A family-run service offering a broad range of cottage styles—romantic, dog-friendly, family-sized—across Devon & Cornwall.
• Independent Cottages – Allows direct bookings with owners of independently owned holiday homes.

Self-catering is one of our preferred options. There’s something to suit almost everyone. And off-season self-catering can be really inexpensive, allowing short breaks even when the budget is tight. We use Booking.com and Skykes Cottages for convenience, but a web search for the area of interest can also yield good results.

Seaside Hotels and Coastal Breaks

The South West coastline is truly spectacular, and seaside hotels in Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset are among the most sought-after stays. From grand Victorian hotels overlooking promenades to modern boutique escapes perched above the cliffs, there’s a style for everyone.

Hotels add convenience to your holiday: no cooking, no tidying, and often little luxuries such as swimming pools or spas, fine dining, or room service. They’re also ideal for romantic getaways in the South West, when you’d rather focus on sunsets and sea views than sorting out breakfast.

• Views: Imagine waking up to a sea view or sipping evening drinks on a balcony overlooking the bay.
• Convenience: No cooking, no clearing up — just head down to breakfast and you’re set for the day.
• Facilities: Many seaside hotels offer swimming pools, spas, gyms, and family entertainment options.
• Tradition: Seaside hotels have been a part of British holiday culture since Victorian times, and many towns in the South West still boast grand old hotels with a touch of nostalgic charm.

Options:

• Traditional Seafront Hotels: Many towns, from Torquay to Weymouth, have long-established hotels right on the promenade. These often feature period architecture, dining rooms overlooking the sea, and a classic British holiday ambience. However, be cautious, read the reviews, as standards vary dramatically, and there is a fine line between classic and dated.
• Boutique Coastal Retreats: In recent years, there’s been a rise in small, stylish boutique hotels along the Cornish and Devon coastlines. These often focus on design, comfort, and food. Perfect for romantic breaks.
• Spa and Wellness Hotels: Wellness is a growing theme in seaside holidays. Infinity pools with sea views, spa treatments using Cornish sea salt, or yoga retreats by the coast. These hotels appeal to couples, groups of friends, or anyone needing a restorative break.
• Family (and Pet) Friendly Hotels: Many hotels near the coast cater specifically to families, offering kids’ clubs, play areas, pools, and easy beach access. Parents can relax knowing there are facilities to keep children entertained.
• Luxury Country House Hotels by the Sea: Some grand country houses overlook the coast and offer fine dining, manicured gardens, and high-end service. These are ideal for honeymoons and anniversaries.
  

Helpful Resources:

• Booking.com – filters for “seaside” or “beachfront” hotels
• Expedia UK – for price comparison and packages

As you might imagine, seaside hotels command a premium price during the summer months, particularly in the hotspots of Devon and Cornwall. That said, there are often excellent deals outside of the peak season. We recommend being flexible with dates wherever possible!

Luxury Spa Hotels and Country Houses

For those looking to treat themselves (or others) , 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 pair 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

City Breaks

While the South West is most famous for its coast and countryside, its cities are every bit as rewarding for a short break. Bristol buzzes with creativity, from its colourful street art and harbourside bars to its cutting-edge food scene. Bath, by contrast, is steeped in history, where elegant Georgian crescents and the ancient Roman Baths set the stage for a more refined getaway. Exeter blends a lively university atmosphere with a beautiful cathedral and easy access to Dartmoor, while Plymouth offers maritime heritage and a dramatic waterfront that’s perfect for exploring on foot.

Accommodation in these cities ranges from stylish boutique hotels and historic townhouses to modern serviced apartments. For weekend escapes, they’re ideal: you can wander museums in the morning, shop or sample local markets in the afternoon, and then enjoy theatre, live music, or a good restaurant in the evening. City breaks also make a perfect contrast to more extended stays in the countryside or by the coast, giving you a taste of the South West’s character without losing the distinctive regional charm.

Another advantage of a city break in the South West is that these hubs make excellent bases for exploring further afield. From Bristol, it’s an easy trip into the Cotswolds or down to Somerset’s rolling hills; Bath puts you within reach of Stonehenge and the Mendip Hills; Exeter is the gateway to Dartmoor and the Devon coast; and from Plymouth, you can quickly reach both Cornwall’s dramatic coastline and the wilds of Dartmoor. Staying in a city means you get all the convenience of good transport, restaurants, and nightlife, while still being just a short journey away from some of the region’s most stunning countryside and coast.

Pubs with Rooms (One of our Favourites)

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. 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 mix 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 (B&Bs)

The Birth of the Modern B&B

Nothing beats the warmth of a traditional bed and breakfast in the South West. Whether it’s a farmhouse in Somerset, a Georgian townhouse in Bath, or a beautiful spot in a Cornish harbour town, B&Bs offer character, comfort, and a friendly local touch.

The modern B&B traces its roots back to the 19th century, the Victorian seaside boom. With the rise of railways, middle-class families began holidaying at the British seaside. Many households in towns like Weymouth, Torquay and Falmouth opened their spare rooms to paying guests, serving them simple breakfasts.

After the Second World War, B&Bs gained popularity, particularly as an affordable form of holiday accommodation during the rationing period and the post-war years. Families near the coast or in popular spots in villages, towns, and cities could supplement their income by taking in holidaymakers.

The term B&B became widely used in the mid-20th century, particularly in Britain and Ireland, to distinguish small, family-run guesthouses from larger hotels.

B&Bs Today

Modern B&Bs are incredibly varied. Some stick to the traditional style, a few rooms, a friendly host, and a cooked breakfast. In contrast, others have evolved into small hotels with luxury features, gourmet dining, and designer interiors. The essence, however, remains the same: a warm welcome, a bed, and breakfast.

The highlight, of course, is breakfast itself—often cooked using local ingredients, from free-range eggs to local sausages and homemade jam. A B&B is also great if you want local recommendations, as hosts often know the best walks, hidden beaches, and pubs.

Choosing and Booking a B&B

Whilst many modern B&Bs are listed on sites such as Booking.com, others may have their own website and only accept bookings directly. Many still have the traditional sign outside that invariably will display “Vacancies” or “No Vacancies.” A web search can be helpful, for example, by typing in “bed and breakfast in Exmouth.” Another valuable resource is TripAdvisor. Even if the B&B is not listed on a booking site, it will likely have received reviews, which can help you find suitable properties in your chosen location.

B&Bs vary significantly in terms of price, experience, and location because they are independent. You need to be clear in your mind about what you would like. An inexpensive stay whilst walking the South West Coast Path, or something a little more comfortable for a few days’ holiday away?

We then strongly suggest reading reviews, whether on Booking.com or TripAdvisor, to see whether what is being offered meets your expectations. Are there en-suite bathrooms? Are there alternatives to the traditional English breakfast (e.g., a fry-up)? Does it offer free Wi-Fi, parking (crucial in coastal towns), gardens, or a visitor lounge? Whatever is important to you.

Because individuals or families run many B&Bs, they may have stricter check-in and check-out windows than hotels. If you’re arriving late, call ahead to confirm.

As with any accommodation, it’s advisable to book ahead, especially at Easter or during the school summer holidays (mid-July to early September).

• Booking.com – always a good place to start for any accommodation.
• TripAdvisor – for reviews, recommendations and a list of B&Bs in your chosen location.
• Local Tourist Information Centres – for recommendations and help with bookings.

Farm Stays and Rural Retreats

If you’re craving peace, a farm stay in the South West might be perfect. Many working farms now welcome visitors, offering everything from self-catering barns to simple rooms in the farmhouse.

Families love them because children can interact with animals, collect eggs, or simply roam the fields. They make an ideal base for walkers exploring the moors or the coast path. Couples, meanwhile, often book them for relaxing countryside holidays in Somerset or Dorset, where mornings start with birdsong instead of traffic.

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.

Camping and caravaning 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 in the South West

• 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

• 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.

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

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 a mix of budget and mid-range options.

Best for Luxury Lodges & Relaxation

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

Best for Budget-Friendly Stays

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

Budget Accommodation: YHA, Hostels, and Bunkhouses

Exploring the South West doesn’t have to break the bank. The region has a wide range of budget-friendly accommodations that still put 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’re 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

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.

Top Tips for Booking Accommodation in the South West of England

• Book Early in Peak Season
  The South West is the UK’s most visited holiday region, attracting around 16 million visitors each year. Cottages, seaside hotels, and family parks in Cornwall and Devon often sell out months in advance for July and August. If you’re planning a summer trip, book as early as you can.
• But don’t book too Far Ahead!
  Particularly if you are touring the West Country by walking, cycling, car, or public transport, there’s nothing worse than falling in love with a place or wanting to explore more, only to be unable to do so because you’ve booked accommodation for every night of your trip.
• Be Flexible with Dates
  Travelling in late spring or early autumn (May–June or September) often means lower prices, fewer crowds, and more choice. Many places offer off-peak discounts, especially for midweek stays.
• Match Your Stay to Your Trip Style
  • Families: holiday parks, self-catering cottages, or campsites with facilities.
  • Couples: boutique B&Bs, glamping pods, or spa hotels.
  • Groups: larger country houses, converted barns, or multi-bedroom lodges.
• Check What’s Included
  Always look closely at facilities. Parking can be tricky in coastal towns, Wi-Fi may be patchy in rural areas, and some cottages still have shared bathrooms. Don’t assume — check before you book.
• Read Independent Reviews
  We ALWAYS do this. Reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com give valuable insight into the reality of a stay, from cleanliness and facilities to the friendliness of the owners. For B&Bs and smaller properties, reviews are beneficial.
• Consider Location Carefully
  Decide whether you want to be in the heart of a seaside town, tucked away in the countryside, or close to a city for day trips. Consider travel logistics as well; narrow country lanes can be tricky (and sometimes impassable) for motorhomes or caravans. When towing a caravan or in a large motorhome, be VERY wary of SatNav directions.
• Book Direct Where Possible
  While big platforms (Booking.com, Expedia, VRBO) are convenient, booking directly with the accommodation can sometimes offer better rates, more flexible cancellation terms, or additional perks, and it supports small, independent businesses.
• Think About Transport
  If you’re relying on public transport, basing yourself in a city such as Bath, Bristol, Exeter, or Plymouth makes sense, thanks to strong rail and bus connections. But you don’t always need a car for a rural or coastal holiday in the South West. A network of picturesque train branch lines, like those running to St Ives, Falmouth, Exmouth, and Paignton, links mainline stations to smaller seaside towns and villages, opening up cottage and B&B stays near the coast.
• Have a Back-Up Plan in Summer
  The region is popular, so if you’re booking late, broaden your search beyond hotspots like St Ives or Salcombe. Quieter corners of Somerset or North Devon can be just as beautiful — and more budget-friendly.

Conclusion

With everything from seaside hotels and B&Bs to country houses, glamping pods, holiday parks, and self-catering cottages, the South West of England offers a place to stay for every kind of visitor. Whether you want the freedom of a caravan, the indulgence of a spa hotel, the charm of a farm stay, or the bright lights of a city break, you’ll find it here. The region’s blend of coast, countryside, and culture makes accommodation itself part of the adventure, and with so many choices, the only challenge is deciding which South West escape suits you best!

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.

New to South West England or returning after a while? Start with our ‘Travel Basics’ – quick guides packed with tips to help you plan your trip.

• South West England Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit
• Getting to South West England
• Best Places to Stay
• Best Places to Eat & Drink
• What’s On
• Things to Do in South West England
• Travel Essentials