Search Hotels by St Austell in North Cornish Coast from £80

Cornwall's coastline is without a doubt its foremost attraction. From dramatic, rugged cliffs to peaceful and enchanting coves, the Cornish coast really does have it all. The northern coast is home to some of the county's most popular towns, including Newquay, St. Ives and Bude. While the towns and villages in the north are diverse, the primary draw is surely the surfing. With so many visitors hitting the north coast each year, there are plenty of attractive hotels to choose from.

Newquay: the Northern Hub

Newquay is one of the county's best-known towns, and the one which pulls in more tourists than any other. The town's main attraction is its surfing, but the town centre also offers excellent shopping and a thriving nightlife.

There are a handful of beaches in Newquay, most of which offer consistent surf and outstanding facilities, making it a great place to learn. There are a number of hotels overlooking the water, ranging from affordable guesthouses to luxury spa hotels. There are also a number of exciting attractions in and around the town, from the Blue Reef Aquarium to the Zoo.

Padstow: a Quaint Fishing Town

Padstow may only be a short drive up the coast from Newquay, but it offers visitors an altogether different feel. Padstow is a working fishing town, centred around its picturesque quay. While it's recently become known as a centre for excellent food, thanks to the celebrity chef Rick Stein, there's far more to the town's identity than just that. Outside of Rick Stein's eateries, there's plenty of opportunities to grab an authentic pasty and a pint from the town's many traditional pubs.

The Metropole Hotel offers a relaxing place to stay, complete with spa treatments and a good sized pool.

Explore the Coves

The north coast of Cornwall may have its fair share of well-known towns and bays, but much of the county's best is off the beaten track. Whether it's by road or on foot, exploring the north coast for yourself is the best way to find something special. With so many small coves to choose from, the chances of finding a magical spot are higher here than anywhere else in the country.