Best Places to Stay in South West England: A Complete Overview

The South West of England is the UK’s most visited holiday region, welcoming around 16 million people each year, and finding the best places to stay in South West England is often the first step in planning a great trip. With dramatic coastlines, peaceful countryside, colourful harbour towns and lively cities, the region offers everything from seaside hotels and boutique B&Bs to rural cottages, farm stays, moorland inns and luxury country house retreats.

Whether you want a coastal base for beach days, a quiet village for walking and wildlife, a foodie town close to restaurants and culture, or a five-star escape with sweeping views, the South West has accommodation to suit every style, budget and itinerary. Read on to discover the best options and where they’re located.

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Self-Catering in South West England

When thinking about the best places 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, 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.

Seaside Hotels and Coastal Breaks in South West England

For many travellers searching for the best places 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 mix 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 Coastal Hotel

• Sea views and scenery: Wake up to the sound of waves, enjoy a balcony breakfast, or watch the evening light sweep across the bay.
• Convenience: Hotels remove the effort from your stay, ideal if you want everything taken care of while you explore Cornwall, Devon, Somerset or Dorset.
• Facilities: Many coastal hotels offer spas, pools, gyms and on-site dining, perfect for unwinding after a day on the beach or coast path.
• Tradition: Seaside hotels have deep roots in British holiday culture. Towns such as Torquay, Sidmouth, Bournemouth and Falmouth still boast beautiful Victorian or Edwardian hotels that bring a nostalgic sense of place.

Types of Seaside Hotels in the South West

• Traditional seafront hotels: Promenade locations with sweeping sea views and period architecture. Charming, atmospheric, but check reviews carefully, as standards vary widely. We are fans of either Booking.com or TripAdvisor for this.
• Boutique coastal retreats: Small, stylish hotels with a focus on design, comfort and great food. These often sit on clifftops or in tucked-away coves, making them ideal for couples.
• Spa and wellness hotels: Growing hugely in popularity, with infinity pools overlooking the sea, coastal saunas, yoga studios and restorative treatments using local produce and sea minerals.
• Family and pet-friendly hotels: Many coastal hotels cater brilliantly for families, offering kids’ clubs, pools, games rooms and easy access to safe beaches.
• Luxury country house hotels by the sea: Grand, heritage-rich properties with elegant interiors and exceptional dining. Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries or a splash-out getaway.

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 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

City Breaks

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. At the same time, 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 (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. These can be amongst 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 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) in South West England

The Birth of the B&B

Nothing captures the charm of a South West break quite like staying in 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.

B&Bs 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.

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 self-catering 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.

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 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

• 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’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. Many of the properties listed on Booking.com offer free cancellation.
• 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