Coastal Escapes

With the weather warming up for summer it's the perfect time to escape to the coast on a relaxing day out or short break. From fairytale castles to tranquil ruins, if you’re craving seaside air, head to one of the properties below and enjoy stunning views, coastal walks - and perhaps an ice cream or three.

Set in the lovely village of St Mawes, St Mawes Castle stands across from Pendennis Castle on the Fal estuary.

Cornwall – you’re never far from the sea at Pendennis Castle, with water lapping at the 450 year-old fortress’ defences on three sides. Discover the story of the castle from Tudor times to WWII; then from Falmouth take a boat to the picturesque St Mawes Castle to enjoy stunning views of the Fal Estuary and the sea. Also in Cornwall is the spectacular Tintagel Castle, birthplace of the legend of King Arthur, situated on the dramatic North Cornwall coastline.

Staying in Cornwall? Take a look at our holiday cottages at Pendennis and St Mawes Castles.

Isle of Wight – the royal seaside palace of Osborne House was the favourite holiday home of Queen Victoria. Discover a royal love story, explore the vast and beautiful grounds and enjoy stunning views of the Solent. The island provides plenty of other delights too, including Carisbrooke Castle, coastal Yarmouth Castle and miles of heritage coastline.

Holidaying on the Isle of Wight? Stay within the grounds of Osborne House or Carisbrooke Castle.

Dartmouth Castle in Devon has stood for over 600 years on a superb waterfront setting guarding the narrow entrance to the Dart estuary.

Dartmouth – guarding the narrow entrance to the Dart Estuary and the pretty town of Dartmouth is one of the most picturesquely sited fortresses in England – Dartmouth Castle. In the summer months you can reach the castle by ferry from the Dartmouth quayside, along with plenty of other fascinating attractions and riverside towns. 

White Cliffs Country - set on the picturesque Kent coastline with panoramic views of the sea is Walmer Castle & Gardens. Discover where the Duke of Wellington and the Queen Mother have lived and stayed, enjoy a homemade lunch in the tea room, then take the stroll along the seafront to the town of Deal and the fascinating Deal Castle. If you’re staying in Kent for longer, don’t miss nearby Dover Castle, with its 2,000 years of history, atmospheric recreations and interactive exhibits.

Staying in Kent? Take a look at our holiday cottages at Dover and Walmer Castles.

Whitby Abbey, set on a headland high above the seaside town of Whitby in North Yorkshire.

North Yorkshire – set on a headland high of the seaside town of Whitby is one of the most atmospheric attractions on the Yorkshire coast - Whitby Abbey. Discover the long history of the abbey including its more recent gothic connections and enjoy fantastic views of the sea. Along the coast is Scarborough Castle, with its panoramic sea views, 2,500 years of history and lovely tea room. North Yorkshire is also home to the North York Moors, pretty seaside towns and villages, and other English heritage sites such as Rievaulx Abbey, Pickering Castle and Helmsley Castle.

Taking a short break in North Yorkshire? Stay in Refectory Cottage at Rievaulx Abbey.  

Holy Island – in a peaceful setting, offshore on Holy Island and only accessible via a causeway at low tide is Lindisfarne Priory. Still a place of pilgrimage today, the priory offers a serene atmosphere and spectacular views of Holy Island and the sea.