Moorings Holiday Home in Cawsand

Just beyond the Tamar Bridge—or a scenic ferry ride from Plymouth—lies the Rame Peninsula, a rugged headland dotted with fishing villages, golden sandy beaches, and hidden coves. At its heart is Cawsand, a charming seaside haven where pastel-colored cottages surround a shingle beach and tranquil bay, overlooking the breathtaking Plymouth Sound. On clear days, you might spot seabirds, seals, dolphins, and even the iconic Eddystone Lighthouse in the distance.

A holiday in Cawsand is all about slowing down and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Wander its narrow streets, browse local shops and galleries, pick up fresh sourdough bread and pastries from the Old Bakery, or savor traditional fish and chips at The Devonport, an old sailor’s haunt known for its excellent pub fare. Just next door, Kingsand—Cawsand’s twin village—offers the same historic charm, best enjoyed with an ice cream in hand as you stroll its meandering lanes.

With its colorful fishing boats, shingle beach, and woodland backdrop, Cawsand is the perfect retreat for those looking to escape the crowds. The calm, crystal-clear waters make it ideal for a morning swim, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking—both of which can be hired right from the beach. If you fancy a day out, hop on the Cremyll Ferry and explore Plymouth’s lively restaurants, cafés, and shops.

For keen walkers, the South West Coast Path leads to Whitsand Bay, just five miles away. These vast, golden beaches remain blissfully quiet, even in peak summer, and are perfect for surfing, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. For a more leisurely excursion, visit Port Eliot, a bohemian stately home with dreamy riverside gardens, where events like the Dog Festival & Whippet Tea Party take place in May, along with a celebrated literary festival in summer. Alternatively, head to Mount Edgcumbe Park for an afternoon of cycling or Segway adventures.

No visit is complete without a stop at The Long Gallery in St Germans, a beautifully restored old schoolhouse, where tea and cake set the stage for a bracing walk around Rame Head. This dramatic headland, once a retreat for medieval monks, still feels wild and windswept, as if you could be carried away with the seagulls. Afterward, warm up with a hearty Sunday roast at The Rod and Line in Tideford.

With fresh sea air, a touch of nostalgia, and an undeniable sense of tranquility, a holiday in Cawsand is the perfect escape—no matter the season.