We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
The best Airbnbs in Cornwall and Devon for a sunny southern staycation
From harbourside boltholes to sprawling country pads, these are the ones to consider
With more Britons choosing to holiday closer to home this summer, there's never been a better time to rediscover the South West. Cornwall and Devon combine dramatic coastline, sandy beaches and rolling countryside with picturesque villages, making them ideal for all kinds of UK escapes.
A romantic weekend by the sea, a big family get-together or a dog-friendly break with miles of coastal walks all call for somewhere special to stay, and that's where Airbnb really comes into its own. Offering privacy, self-catering options and creative decoration and layouts, the platform offers properties suited to all manner of occasions.
Our edit includes whitewashed cottages overlooking the water, beautifully restored barns, secluded cabins surrounded by nature and stylish homes packed with character. If you're searching for a peaceful rural retreat or a base for exploring the South West's celebrated food scene, gardens and coastline, these are the Airbnbs worth bookmarking for your next staycation.
Downderry, South East Cornwall
Looking for an Airbnb in Cornwall with an unbeatable sea view? This loft studio allows you to literally wake up to this spectacular scene and enjoy it from your bed. Whether you're having breakfast or watching the sunset, this rental is all about the view.
It's located around 200 metres from the beach so when you're not taking it in from a height, you can make the most of long, coastal walks. The perfect couples' retreat, this Airbnb has everything you need for a mini-break on Cornwall's South East coast.
Sleeps: 2
Poltimore, East Devon
Providing you with the peace and tranquillity that the county is most loved for, this Airbnb in Devon is an utter treat. A converted shipping container in the village of Poltimore, just a few miles from Exeter, this quirky holiday rental is set in an attractive meadow with views of rolling countryside.
Inside, the Airbnb is stylish and cosy, with bespoke pine-topped stools, handmade reading chairs and board games. The kitchen is pretty fancy too.
Sleeps: 4
Mousehole, West Cornwall
Set just moments from Mousehole's picturesque harbour, The Old Fish Cellar is a beautifully reimagined studio for two that teams industrial heritage with contemporary luxury.
Once a working fish cellar, the 300-year-old space now features a stylish open-plan interior, complete with a wood-burning stove, bespoke kitchen and a sumptuous kingsize bed. After days spent exploring Cornwall's rugged coastline, return to the spa-like wet room with underfloor heating before curling up for a cosy evening by the fire.
Sleeps: 2
Dartmouth, South Devon
Architecture and design buffs, this one's for you. A fantastic base for walkers, beachgoers and chillers alike, this Airbnb in Devon is sleek and retro, with the kind of vibe arty types will love.
A red-tiled bathroom, Scandi-style bedrooms and a stylish fireplace all make this stay feel every bit as elevated as a hotel, while a private dinghy (life vests included) are up for grabs if you fancy rowing down pretty Warfleet Creek.
Sleeps: 4
Tamar Valley, Cornwall
Keen for a stay quite literally like no other? This sustainably restored double-decker bus in Cornwall is one of the most unique Airbnbs you'll find.
Hand-built from salvaged materials, its quirky charm offers no shortage of luxury, from a super-king bed and oversized bath with countryside views to a wood-fired hot tub perfect for stargazing. Set on a working farm in the Tamar Valley, it's an idyllic spot to slow down, switch off and uncover the bus's hidden surprises.
Dunsford, Devon
Tucked away on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Little Gables is an architect-designed retreat made for two. Inside, the modern rustic interiors feature a soaring vaulted ceiling, an emperor-size bed and a freestanding bath perfectly positioned to soak up the countryside views.
Spend your days exploring the moor or Devon's coast before returning for an evening by the bioethanol fire or a sunset drink on the panoramic terrace.
Sleeps: 2
Bodmin, Mid Cornwall
Looking for a huge pad to host a big group? Whether it's family or friends, this remote Airbnb in Cornwall is a dream. The detached holiday cottage is as beautiful and homely inside as it is from the outside, with a classically yellow country house kitchen, a cosy living room and sumptuous bedrooms.
There are plenty of luxuries built into this stay – the Aga, the Swedish hot tub and the games room to name a few. With the rural setting and location close to Cornwall's beaches and towns, this characterful farmhouse is one to add to your wish list.
Sleeps: 12
Mutterton, Mid Devon
For a family getaway everyone will remember, this large Airbnb in Devon is a treat. Nestled among 100 acres of farmland, guests can languish in the idyllic garden while ducks wander across the lawn, discover the treehouse at the edge of the woods, cook on the massive Aga stove and experience a sprawling family home for the duration of the stay.
The farmhouse chic decor includes five individually styled bedrooms, with one featuring a four-poster bed. There are also sun loungers in the garden, a games room and a croquet set ready for hours of fun.
Sleeps: 10
Crowan, West Cornwall
A former Victorian vicarage, Trenoweth House is packed with the kind of character that makes it a fabulous spot for a group getaway. Nestled in West Cornwall, this Airbnb sits within acres of farmland, boasting woodland, natural swimming lakes and streams all around. Alongside its dreamy seclusion, the vicarage has been beautifully restored to blend its original features with modern design.
You'll find large granite walls, open fireplaces and exposed beams intertwined with sleek architecture, including the kitchen with its glass ceiling and wood fired pizza oven. The dining area is enormous, while bedrooms are kitted out with four-poster beds, roll top baths and sensational garden views.
Sleeps: 14
Ilfracombe, North Devon
Just a stroll from Ilfracombe's galleries, Michelin-starred dining and coffee shops, this Airbnb in Devon is one for taking in the views from the balcony. The penthouse was once an old Victoria shop and has been renovated to provide a homely pad that's as perky as it is modern.
There are harbour views from the dining room too and little luxuries include the rain shower, kingsize bed and breakfast bar.
Sleeps: 2
Roshina is a contributing editor to Hearst UK. She was previously Senior Travel Editor, where she covered titles including Country Living, Red, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar and Good Housekeeping.
When she's not scoping out the next destinations we should explore (Uzbekistan, the Austrian Alps, Tbilisi), she loves revisiting old favourites (Mauritius, the Dolomites, Istanbul) and spending summer in the mountains - especially when hiking or wrapped in a spa robe.
Maddy is the Homes Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she can be found writing about the latest interiors news and collating inspiring trend edits. She has previously worked for Good Housekeeping, Prima and Red, and has an MA in Classics and Ancient History from the University of Manchester and a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from the University of East Anglia, where she was the editor-in-chief of the student newspaper.
Meet Ullapool, Britain's very own slice of Scandinavia
This corner of Wales feels just like Switzerland
This Northumberland beach rivals Cornwall
This family-sized Decathlon tent is now under £100
