St Mawes is a beautiful place (Image: acceleratorhams via Getty Images)
Nestled on Cornwall’s south coast within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies a charming, secluded town boasting one of Britain’s mildest climates, with temperatures occasionally rivalling those of Mediterranean destinations.
Located in the Roseland Peninsula district of Cornwall, a pristine landscape of dramatic cliffs, tranquil creeks, ancient woodland and sandy beaches, this picturesque seaside town has earned its reputation as a top-tier sailing destination, featuring a delightful harbour and numerous independent boutiques.
St Mawes enjoys an exceptional ‘subtropical’ climate, delivering considerably warmer temperatures throughout the year, including winter months, compared to much of the UK. Little wonder, then, that it’s become an incredibly sought-after holiday destination – even attracting the Royal Family – with its laid-back coastal charm, characterful narrow lanes and spectacular ocean panoramas tempting visitors to extend their stays.
A beloved retreat for King Charles, Queen Camilla and even the late Queen Elizabeth II, the locale’s maritime climate is truly unique within the UK.
Shaped by the Gulf Stream, with the Atlantic serving as a natural thermal regulator, St Mawes consistently enjoys balmy, sun-drenched summers and temperate, damp winters with minimal frost or snowfall. Guests can partake in watersports, picturesque rambles, year-round ferry excursions from Falmouth, exceptional cuisine and explore St Mawes Castle – an impeccably maintained coastal fortification commissioned by Henry VIII.
The town has plenty of charming beaches (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The notorious monarch constructed the Castle to protect the vital anchorage at Carrick Roads – where the River Fal meets the sea. This uniquely clover-leaf shaped fortress offers spectacular panoramas of the ocean and maritime traffic from its ramparts, and features several carved inscriptions celebrating Henry VII and his successor Edward VI.
Beyond its historical significance, St Mawes’ delightful town centre boasts numerous charming galleries, independent retailers and an array of harbourside pubs and eateries.
The visual appeal of the locale is exceptional – from thatched cottages and whitewashed dwellings to Marine Parade, which showcases wonderful independent retailers, and Waterside Gallery, home to galleries and chic boutiques brimming with classic coastal attire.
The town is warmer than most other parts of the UK (Image: Getty Images)
St Mawes offers several delightful beaches for holidaymakers to enjoy, including Summers Beach and Tavern Beach, perfect for bathing and exploring rock pools, whilst Harbour Beach, though only reachable at low-tide, welcomes dogs throughout the year with tranquil waters protected by the estuary.
For those who enjoy rambling, the coastal footpath to St Just, also situated on the Roseland peninsula, is truly memorable, or during summer months, visitors can take the ferry to the compact, tidal inlet at Place Creek to explore the picturesque route to St Anthony’s Lighthouse.
One visitor to St Mawes remarked: “We walked up to the castle and back in the beautiful and picturesque village of St Mawes. We definitely want to revisit this beautiful and classy village.”
Another admirer enthused: “St Mawes is beautiful in all weathers and is well worth a visit any time of the year.”
Fancy experiencing it firsthand? There are numerous charming accommodations available in St Mawes, courtesy of providers such as Sykes Holiday Cottages and Cottages.com.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
