The sun is out, and for many of us, that means one thing – it’s holiday time! Though this summer is a little different, and we might not be jetting abroad as much as we’re used to – there’s no reason to miss out on the truly glorious destinations right on our doorstep. That’s right – lots of us have been heading to find the sun on our own beautiful Southern shores, right here in the UK. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this shift has meant one thing to our property finders down South – a boom in relocations!
With more and more of us discovering the sights, seas and sands of beautiful Devon and sunny Cornwall, it’s no surprise that for some, a trip away might turn into a lifetime. Of course, many of our clients have seen the world-famous humming tourist hotspots like Padstow or Salcombe, but haven’t got the local know-how to find a few gems off the hidden track. Our local property finder, has searched high and low to bring you the top three places to live in both Devon and Cornwall (which you might not have heard of) in this guide from Buying Agent Partnership.
Cornwall
First up is beautiful Cornwall. The UK’s number one holiday destination spot, Cornwall is the perfect blend of vibrant, beautiful towns and villages with golden sands and crisp blue surf. A true jewel in the crown of the United Kingdom, it’s no surprise that so many want to return here for more than just one trip. So where should prospective homeowners look to buy property in Cornwall? We’ve got the scoop.
Veryan, Roseland Peninsula
Veryan is a true hidden gem in the heart of Cornwall. Situated on the Roseland Peninsula, this little village is often described as one of the loveliest inland villages in Cornwall. With the beautiful, historic and totally unique circular cottages which mark each entrance to Veryan, even a casual visitor might realise how truly special this place is.
Postcard-pretty, Veryan has a famous village pub called The New Inn, guaranteed to provide the perfect atmosphere on those long summer evenings, as well as a local shop for all your needs. It’s also just moments away from two picturesque golden sand beaches, Carne Beach & Pendower Beach – well off the beaten track, and having been described as having all the exclusivity of a private island.
Veryan is the ideal spot for those wishing to relocate to Cornwall for its peaceful, idyllic villages. Like what you hear? Ask our property finder for availability today!
St. Minver, North Cornwall
St. Minver is a truly spectacular village on the North Cornish Coast. With countryside views and local scenery, the village is also fantastically located close to many of the most popular areas to visit, like Wadebridge, Port Isaac and more.
Despite this easy and convenient access to some of Cornwall’s most vibrant areas, St. Minver is a quiet and tranquil village location with its own pub, school and church. Located within two miles of the ever-popular Rock, a short ferry ride can find you in gorgeous nearby Padstow.
St Minver boasts traditional Cornish cottages where newcomers can make their home, and is moments away from beautiful golden beaches and surf communities of Polzeath. We think moving to Cornwall never looked so magical!
Mawgan Porth, Cornwall
Our final entrant into this list of Cornish hidden gems, Mawgan Porth is a perfect compromise between tranquility and the hum of busy Cornwall. Almost equidistant between the humming hubs of Padstow & Newquay, Mawgan Porth has everything you’ll need in the way of local amenities, venues and facilities, as well as being a calm, quiet oasis for those looking for the quieter side of life. A fantastic surfing beach gives locals the opportunity to swim, sun themselves and surf without struggling through huge crowds, whilst the local restaurant and bars support the town’s independence and diversity
Located close to Newquay airport, Mawgan Porth is ideal for commuting elsewhere for work or taking trips (as everything else is located conveniently within reach!). For nature lovers, Mawgan Porth boasts beautiful coastal walks to Bedruthan Steps and beyond, a true must-see. If you’re planning a staycation or have guests visiting, Mawgan Porth also enjoys a plethora of luxurious hotels & spas including hot tubs overlooking the beach! For those looking for properties in Cornwall, look no further than these amazing sea-view homes.
Devon
A true staple of the British countryside, Devon boasts the perfect combination of rolling greenery, stretches of sandy beach, and a rich history and legacy to discover. For those familiar with holidaying in the UK, Devon is a firm favourite – and for good reason! If you’re looking to move to Devon, why not take a look at our property finder’s list of hidden Devon gems? Read on to find out:
Topsham, Devon
A historic town, perfect for those who still want to be in touching distance of a city, Topsham in Devon is a true wonder of the South. Topsham enjoys this connection to a bustling local city while still having the benefits of what we might think of as Devon’s enviable ‘country living!’. Less than four miles away from the humming city centre of Exeter, Topsham has a real cosmopolitan atmosphere, without compromising on its natural setting and community spirit.
A bundle of unique shops, boutiques and galleries abound in this eye-catching little town, as well as award winning restaurants which make the most of stunning local produce and seafood. Indeed, the gourmands among our readers should look no further than Topsham for places to live in Devon; with plenty of fine local wines and foods to be had, it’s a true gastronomic paradise! Of course, it’s one of the most beautiful places to live in the South of England, too, thanks to stunning views over the Exe estuary (with some spectacular sunsets).
Instow, North Devon
Instow is a small town located on an estuary, where the two beautiful Taw & Torridge rivers meet before joining the sea. A wonderful holiday spot all year round, Instow has only recently caught the attention of local buyers for its fantastic property selection, with estuary views, and its stunning natural setting. With award-winning family businesses like bakeries, delicatessens, restaurants and boutique shops, Instow is the perfect place to raise a young family.
This is especially true thanks to the world-famous Tarka Trail, which runs through Instow, and gives a great way to explore the surrounding areas of North Devon on bike or on foot. Its large sandy beaches are just perfect for exploring the golden dunes, taking family hikes or walking your furry friends!
With good transport links to the rest of North Devon, including popular areas like Clovelly, the fantastically-named Westward Ho! & Appledore, Instow is an ideal place to move to in Devon.
Ashburton, Devon
Finally, our property finder’s latest favourite is the small town of Ashburton, in Devon. For those looking to find property in Devon, Ashburton is a true traditional Devonshire town with wall-to-wall independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Whilst enjoying the hum of talented local entrepreneurs and businesses, Ashburton enjoys the best of both worlds – residents can enjoy the charm of its many antique shops and small boutique stores, whilst enjoying the diversity and culture of its venues and fine fresh foods from the local delis. The gateway to Dartmoor for rural adventures, Ashburton is truly accessible from everywhere else being on the edge of the A38 – otherwise known as the Devon Expressway, giving you freedom to everywhere you want to go (within the United Kingdom!).
If you’d like to speak to our property finder about buying property in these locations, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. If you’ve got somewhere else in Devon or Cornwall in mind, we’d love to hear from you – and our property finders will make your dream home a reality.