The UK is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but if you’re looking for a quieter spot to soak up the sun, these twin villages are hidden gems well worth a visit
These quiet twin villages are a beautiful part of the country(Image: ianwool via Getty Images)
When the sun makes an appearance across the UK, the nation boasts plenty of remarkable attractions, from beautiful white sandy shores kissed by sparkling waters to quaint cobblestone lanes and idyllic villages. The summer break provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of Britain’s most popular seaside towns and countryside escapes.
Whether you’re drawn to the enduring allure of the Cotswolds or the seaside appeal of places like Weymouth, Scarborough, St Ives or Whitby, one thing is certain – these well-loved destinations will be packed with visitors.
However, if you’d prefer to enjoy the splendour of the British Isles without wrestling through crowds of tourists and social media fans, there’s a secret gem in Cornwall that offers breathtaking views, tranquil shores and a completely peaceful environment.
Nestled on the South-east coastline, the twin villages of Cawsand and Kingsand have everything you could want for a fantastic staycation and more.
Located on the less busy Rame Peninsula, often called Cornwall’s ‘forgotten corner’, these delightful villages are officially recognised as areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB).
This pristine part of the country serves as a natural sanctuary that somehow avoids the summer throngs.
The scenic villages have maintained their peaceful atmosphere despite being encircled by bustling tourist hotspots. These delightful fishing settlements, with their winding lanes and sandy beaches, remain a well-kept secret away from the usual tourist trail.
And they’re steeped in heritage that encompasses the ancestral homes of Mount Edgcumbe, Port Eliot, and Antony House. Intriguingly, these two villages once formed part of different counties, renowned for their historic rivalry and as a refuge for smugglers.
Today, Cawsand Bay provides a sanctuary for families, walkers, swimmers, and kayakers, with its east-facing shingle-and-sand shore peppered with rock pools and inlets. Its sheltered waters make it a safe and stunning spot for all.
Tourists coming to enjoy the beaches are always close to authentic Cornish cuisine, with local pubs and shops just moments from the sandy expanse.
Kingsand, the adjacent village, is a concealed gem with cottage-lined lanes that rival the charm of Polperro and Port Isaac. Retaining much of its genuine character, Kingsand was formerly a flourishing fishing village, and traces of the old pilchard cellars and boat stores can still be discovered along the seafront.
This peaceful part of the peninsula, nestled beneath the coastal path, is a popular spot for walkers and birdwatchers, stretching all the way to the striking Rame Head, topped with a 14th-century chapel. Seafood lovers should make a beeline for the Devonport Inn in Kingsand, while The Bay Bar in Cawsand provides a peaceful setting for a drink, boasting a view that simply can’t be beaten.
The trip to these twin villages is a delightful experience in itself. As you wind your way for miles alongside sand and sea, the breathtaking views across Whitsand Bay offer a glimpse of the spectacular scenery that awaits.