Holiday rentals in Saint Merryn

Located between the popular resort towns of Padstow and Newquay on the north coast of Cornwall, the pretty village of Saint Merryn is ideally located for exploring the area, which boasts some of the most substantial cliffs and gorgeous beaches in the county. The village and surrounding parish have more than five miles of coastline, where imposing cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean on stretches of soft golden sand with shallow turquoise waters and rock pools.

Some of the seven nearby beaches are easily accessed by road, while others are the reward for successfully navigating winding coastal paths — there are plenty of benches for pit stops with commanding views. The wider area is a haven for foodies, with celebrity chefs among the local restaurateurs. The village of Saint Merryn is home to two traditional pubs, where you can sip the local brew outdoors in the warmer months or tuck into a warming pie by the fire in the winter.

Thanks to its southern location within the United Kingdom, temperatures in the Saint Merryn area are famously mild, so walks along the coastal path are pleasant any time of year. However, ocean breezes can bring in sudden showers, so a waterproof jacket is a wise choice no matter the season.

Booking your holiday cottage in Saint Merryn for May or June is your best bet to make the most of wildflowers in bloom, including dainty white sea campions. Also in June, the Steam and Vintage Rally showcases all manner of antique vehicles and classic cars. Saint Merryn Carnival traditionally takes place at the end of August with a parade, floats, and a fete. The cooler months see visitor numbers drop off and sunshine hours start to dip, but you’ll still see surfers out in force on the beaches at nearby Newquay and walkers refuelling at traditional local pubs.

South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is the longest of its kind in England, covering 630 miles of shoreline. The North Cornwall section of the route runs from Padstow to Porthcothan and crosses the Seven Bays region of St Merryn Parish. Regularly featured on lists of the UK’s best walks, the path allows you to create your own itinerary, walking as much or as little of the route as you choose and taking in views at your own pace.

Japanese Garden

Eight miles away in St Mawgan, you’ll find an unexpected oasis — a Japanese garden combining natural elements and creative design. Built as a space for peaceful contemplation, the garden features pathways that guide visitors past waterfalls, bridges, ponds, bonsai, and cherry blossoms. The garden has gravel paths and is wheelchair accessible.

Prideaux Place

Nestled on the edge of Padstow, this country house has been home to an ancient Cornish clan for around 425 years. Constructed in 1592, this Elizabethan building has more than 80 rooms. The house is also rumoured to be haunted — apparitions include a young boy, a woman, a dog, and a monk. Visitors are able to explore the 3,500 acres of gardens and deer park as well as tour the house, which is open from spring until autumn.