We’ve picked our top cottages for art lovers, from those with canvas-worthy views to places located within the heart of Cornwall's artistic history.
The Chapel Gallery, Penzance
Penzance is perfect for art lovers, from stunning architecture to an array of galleries, it offers a vibrant stay with a vintage feel. Artwork takes centre stage at The Chapel Gallery (sleeps 4), a bright and welcoming chapel conversion, where comfort and style meet seamlessly. Wander through the cobbled lanes, and you’ll find The Exchange, the sister venue to Newlyn Art gallery, a light-filled contemporary art space exhibiting a wide collection of works and activities. From the quirky town centre, explore the town's rich culture with a walk down the promenade to the Jubilee Pool, an art deco-style lido for a dip! From the quirky town centre, take a stroll along the promenade to the iconic Jubilee Pool, an Art Deco lido perfect for a refreshing dip. Discover the town's rich cultural heritage at Penlee House Art Gallery & Museum, explore the nearby Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, or simply soak up the awe-inspiring coastal views, ancient landmarks, and wild surrounding landscapes.
Lighthouse View Salt Apartments, St Ives
Lighthouse View (sleeps 4) is a stylish apartment where abstract coastal art adorns the living area walls whilst the far-reaching view overlooks the ocean. A short stroll from the heart of St Ives, a haven for art lovers where you can spend days exploring its artistic heritage and galleries galore! If you’re looking to try your hand at painting, St Ives School of Painting is the place to go, home to a thriving community. It offers a range of art courses and one-day workshops suitable for any level from beginner to advanced, where you can develop skills and explore your creativity!
The Art House, St Ives
A quaint bolthole for two, The Art House is dotted with abstract artwork and is just a short ten-minute walk from Porthmeor beach, where you’ll find Tate St Ives! The iconic gallery overlooks the ocean and celebrates Cornwall’s historic connection with art. Artists, such as Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo, Alfred Wallis and Mark Rothko, have been visiting Cornwall since the Victorian times, drawn to the unique quality of light! The gallery now showcases works by artists who have lived and worked in St Ives. This charming studio is perfect for art lovers and keen walkers too, with the coast path nearby! You’ll find inspiration in nature with the spectacular scenery that’s on your doorstep.
Lake Cottage, Newlyn
Set down a leafy lane, Lake Cottage (sleeps 6) is a beautifully styled Cornish cottage on the outskirts of Newlyn. Combining traditional features with modern style, it’s a truly relaxing oasis with a lounge, sunroom and pretty garden. It’s the ideal base for discovering the vibrant art scene and rich culture of Newlyn. From Lake Cottage you can walk down to the seafront and explore Newlyn School of Art, where you can take a short course in a style that takes your fancy! From seascapes to life drawing, realist landscapes, abstract figures, sketching and so much more... If you’re more of an admirer than artist yourself, Newlyn Art Gallery is a must visit, this contemporary gallery offers a wide range of exhibitions and events (both in Newlyn and at their second gallery in Penzance), just a 2km walk away!
Thalassa, Falmouth
Home to Falmouth University, a renowned arts university, you’ll find a thriving artistic community in Falmouth that’s brimming with creativity! From the expansive collection of artwork at Falmouth Art Gallery to the Falmouth cemetery, where over 20 local artists are laid to rest. Stay in the heart of the historic maritime town at Thalassa (sleeps 8), where you can enjoy spectacular views across the harbour and find everything you need is on your doorstep... the roof terrace is the perfect place to put pen to paper and create your own masterpiece with the picturesque seascape of the Fal estuary, where colourful boats bob on the tide! Across three floors, with a spacious sitting room, dining room and air hockey, there’s plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy themselves!
12 Westcliff, Bude
If you’re looking for somewhere to sketch the Cornish coastline or put your brush to canvas to create a stunning seascape, 12 Westcliff (sleeps 4) is the place for you! Large wrap-around windows frame the rugged coastline overlooking Summerleaze beach in Bude, and there’s plenty of space for your easel! Spend hours admiring the view as nature inspires your creativity! From the expansive bay window through to the kitchen and bedrooms, you’ll find several vantage points to take it all in, where both sunrise and sunset can be seen! Alongside the panoramic views there’s plenty of light to help with your creation. A few minutes' walk from the beach, sea pool, and town centre, you’ll find plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants and the Parkhouse Centre, where Bude Art Society meet weekly, hosting tutored workshops for all abilities! During the summer months, workshops take place outside at local sites of interest – weather permitting, of course! Members' works can be seen at their annual exhibits too!
Puffins, Truro
Located in Malpas, a riverside village in Cornwall’s capital city, surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty, Puffins (sleeps 6) is sure to ignite your creativity and unleash your artistic side! The front terrace is an awe-inspiring spot where you can set up your easel and capture the beauty of the scene in front of you. Inside, Puffins is a thoughtfully decorated space, including pieces from a local artist that celebrate the Cornish coast. Two stylish bedrooms, a chic kitchen diner and a bright living area make this a welcoming home from home where you can take the time to relax, explore the riverside walks, dine in the local waterside pub or take a walk around Truro itself and visit a variety of galleries. From the contemporary Lemon Street Gallery, to The Guild of Ten, a co-op created by craftsmen and women from Cornwall, to artist-led The Main gallery and The Original Art Shop – you can browse, find inspiration or find a piece of Cornish art to take home with you.
The Boathouse, Gorran Haven
Set on the upper floor of what was once a local artist's gallery, The Boathouse (sleeps 6) is nestled down a tranquil lane, a short walk from the quaint beach at Gorran Haven. Close to Caerheys and Mevagissey, find yourself close to ancient landscapes, a traditional Cornish fishing village and an abundance of inspiring coastal views! You’ll be spoilt for choice as to where you’ll explore first. From the blooming magnolia at Caerhays Estate to the picture-postcard harbourside of Mevagissey, there’s a scene that you’re sure to want to transform into art! The Boathouse gives a nod to its creative past with a unique selection of original artwork throughout, and intriguing sculptures dotted around the secluded garden! The outside space is a peaceful spot for taking to your sketchpad. The stylish living area offers a calming sanctuary where you can unwind with ease.
Morvoren, Newquay
For something a little different, stay at Morvoren (sleeps 8) in Newquay and explore the MUQY mural trail, that showcases vibrant street art throughout the town. Embark on a free walking tour that takes you through Cornwall's surf capital, as you discover large-scale artwork that celebrates it's strong identity and rich heritage. The trail includes an eye-catching piece by renowned Penzance artist Kleiner Shames and you'll also spot several colourful doorways on your travels, where local artists have given doorways a new lease of life with an array of fun designs! Along the trail you'll find some of Newquay's most popular places to eat and drink, and you'll be close to the town's array of stunning beaches too!
If you fancy unleashing your creative side or want to discover more about Cornwall's artistic history, browse all of our holiday cottages and book an art-inspired getaway to the coast today.