1. Stargazy Inn, Port Isaac, Cornwall

Innovative tasting/bar menus, comfortable rooms and fabulous sea views are the draw at this revamped villa above Port Isaac.

Just up the hill in Port Isaac, a Victorian villa, known as Wenn House in the TV series Doc Martin, opened as the Stargazy Inn in April 2019 following a top-to-toe refurbishment, and now boasts a bar, restaurant and nine bedrooms. It stands opposite Nathan Outlaw's eponymous restaurant above the charming fishing village and enjoys stunning views north along the coast to Tintagel, best enjoyed from the sun-trap front terrace and the bedrooms with balconies.

2. The Old Coastguard, Mousehole, Cornwall

Gutsy seasonal food, a stunning garden and simple rooms with wonderful views at this beautifully refurbished inn beside the sea.

Situated right beside the sea on Mount's Bay with glorious views, The Old Coastguard in the charming village of Mousehole is a must for those who love Cornwall's gorgeous coastline. Boasting an informal and relaxed vibe with deep sofas, open log fires, historical photographs of the coastline and local art for sale, this is the perfect spot for a little sea-gazing and seaside relaxation.

1. Stargazy Inn, Port Isaac

Long Cross Victorian Gardens at Trelights (the only public gardens on the North Cornish coast) remain in the original Victorian garden layout, with trees, shrubberies, rock garden and pool - all climatically and horticulturally well adapted to their seafront location with strong salty winds.

Trerice is a delightful, small, secluded Elizabethan Manor House built in 1571, with fine fireplaces, ceilings, furniture and clocks. Famed for its barrel roofed Great Chamber, it also has lovely flowering gardens and an old Cornish apple orchard, as well as an experimental Tudor garden.

One of the most fascinating and complete Victorian houses in the country, Lanhydrock is full of period atmosphere (pictured above). Don't miss the servants quarters for a real 'Upstairs Downstairs' experience. The garden has a stunning collection of magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias, and 364 acres of park and woodland sweeping down to the River Fowey.

2. The Old Coastguard, Mousehole

There's plenty going on at The Old Coastguard. Why not join local artist Gillian Cooper in one of her residential drawing workshops, giving you the tools to capture the stunning landscape and wildlife. If visiting in July, don't miss the biannual Sea Salts & Ale - a music and beer festival held in the village of Mousehole.

A day out in St Ives is a must when in this part of the world - just thirty minutes away by car. Part of the national group of galleries, Tate St Ives exhibits work by modern British artists, showcasing a programme of exhibitions that changes three times a year. The Tate also manages the gorgeous Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. There's plenty of arts and crafts cafes, quirky shops and boutiques in St Ives, so it's well worth spending an afternoon exploring this charming seaside spot.

We also highly recommend seeking out the Rock Pool Cafe, a cool little cafe perched on the rocks above the sea pool in Mousehole (pictured above). Enjoy great coffee and cake, lunchtime sandwiches and afternoon tea and scones on the rustic terrace, soaking up the fabulous sea views. It's only a 1-minute walk from The Old Coastguard - the perfect seaside escape.