Glamping in Cornwall: 10 Best spots and what to bring
If you’re looking for information about glamping in Cornwall, you’re in the right place!
From golden sand beaches that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean, to the craggy and foreboding Bodmin Moor to castles that whisper tales of their past at every step, Cornwall has something to offer pretty much any tourist; whether you’re heading to the South West on a romantic getaway or a trip with your whole family.
You could learn how to surf, hike the South West Coast Path or visit the world’s largest indoor rainforest at the Eden Project.
As I live in nearby Devon and have family in Cornwall, I’ve visited hundreds of times, and I’ve never once found myself to be bored here!
But where to stay in Cornwall? Well, there are plenty of accommodations of all different styles in Cornwall; from five-star hotels to cosy B&Bs.
However, for something a bit different, have you ever thought about a glamping holiday in Cornwall?
If you’re interested in reading about the best glamping Cornwall has to offer, you’re in the right place!
We’re breaking down the difference between camping and glamping here, along with the best Cornish sites to stay on and some packing tips.
Read on to find out all about glamping in Cornwall for your next break!
This blog post contains affiliate links.
What is glamping?
Put simply, glamping is glamorous camping.
This could be a shepherd’s hut, a safari tent, or a tipi.
Glamping means that you have all the benefits of camping like being close to nature and a more relaxed holiday, without the disadvantages that camping comes with such as the risk of bad weather, cramped accommodations or discomfort.
The weather in the UK is always a little bit temperamental and Cornwall isn’t immune from this issue, which is what makes weatherproof glamping accommodation so appealing!
Plus, with glamping, you have the choice of whether you would like to enjoy your homely comforts such as WiFi and electricity, or just unplug entirely.
Glamping is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to holiday. In fact, this PR study demonstrates how the global market is set to be worth 7,943 million by 2030, commenting on how it offers the perfect fusion between adventure and comfort!
Reasons to go glamping in Cornwall
If you’re still not convinced, here are some of the best reasons to go glamping in Cornwall:
- Nature: Many of these Cornwall glamping locations are in idyllic locations and have amazing sea views!
- Support local businesses: Lots of these Cornwall glamping sites are run by local businesses; often farm owners who are looking for another way to supplement their income. This can help with Cornwall’s overtourism issues, as it means that towns and villages (St Ives, I love ya, but you’re so busy in the summer months!) are less crowded, and supports locals rather than second homeowners.
- Lots to do: Cornwall is well-equipped for tourism so there will probably be a lot to do within a short drive wherever you’re staying – you won’t need to worry about driving for miles to get to the nearest pub or attraction.
- Do nothing at all: You could just get a bonfire going and sit back and watch the world go by.
- Relaxed way of life: Forget about lining up for hotel breakfast and instead enjoy a cup of tea on the beach at sunrise and finish the day with a delicious dinner in a cosy, local pub.
Glamping locations in Cornwall
If you’re tempted by a relaxed holiday in Cornwall, check out these glamping options around the region! The best glamping locations in Cornwall include sites on Bodmin Moor, Oak Lodge in Falmouth and Haven parks like Perran Sands. Embrace the great outdoors while also being perfectly comfortable!
Camping Pods at Colliford Tavern
If you’re looking for something that’s more substantial than a tipi but not quite a shepherd’s hut, then a camping pod could be a good option.
These glamping pods at Colliford Tavern have comfortable double beds, a heater and electric sockets to charge your devices.
You won’t need to trek miles for supplies either, as there’s an on-site gift shop for camping essentials as well as a bar and restaurant.
It’s great for families with an indoor games room, garden and play area.
When you’re ready to venture out, Colliford Tavern is in a prime position on Bodmin Moor.
Colliford Lake is just a 10-minute walk away and you can easy access attractions on the moor like Jamaica Inn, Golitha Falls and Brown Willy.
If you’re after the beach, drive to North Cornwall to the beaches around Padstow and Port Isaac or south to Looe’s best beaches. Both are around a half-hour journey away.
Oak Lodge Falmouth
Oak Lodge is a luxurious choice for glamping in Cornwall.
This lodge has three bedrooms, a shower room, an open-plan living area and a well-equipped kitchen.
The lodge also comes with Freeview, WiFi as well as books, games and DVDs so you won’t be bored.
Best of all, on the decking is your very own private hot tub!
You’re not far from the local amenities either with it being located just 1.5 miles away from the local village where you can pick up a few essentials or enjoy a delicious meal in the local pub, or visit the Potager Garden and Café within walking distance.
The vibrant town of Falmouth is just a 10-minute drive away with many beaches, restaurants and shops to enjoy.
The Sea Forts Cornwall
When you think of glamping in Cornwall you’re probably picturing a luxury tent on the edge of a cliff with incredible views over the ocean.
That’s exactly what you get at The Sea Forts.
These luxury tents, set right on a cliff-side come with a proper bed as well as bed linen, a lantern, solar charger, a fire pit and even a Dutch oven to make a proper home-cooked meal.
Glamping is all about those added extras and in these tents you’ll even find a candelabra for that added bit of luxury.
Whether you’re wanting to fully switch off or stay connected to loved ones, you can take advantage of the free WiFi here as well.
There is also so much to see in the surrounding area and the bicycle rental service makes it easy to soak up the views on a long bike ride.
Alder Yurt Wych Elm Glamping
Alder Yurt Wych Elm Glamping Site is small and family-run with just five yurts, a bell tent and a cabin on-site, so you know you can enjoy a tranquil stay in the Cornish countryside.
These yurts come with beds, a log burner, rugs for added comfort and even electricity sockets to charge your devices. They offer an authentic camping experience with a few luxury extras!
Outside of the yurts is a firepit and BBQ area as well as a picnic table to cook your own meals.
This glamping site is an award-winning site that won silver at Cornwall Tourism Awards two years in a row, so you know you’ll have a great stay.
For things to do near the site, there is a coastal path that runs from Coverack to Kenack Sands, The Lizard and Kynance Cove.
There is also a lovely beach at Lankidden Cove which is just a 20–40-minute walk away.
Roosters Retreat
Roosters Retreat is set in a rural location in the Cornish countryside, and is the only shepherd’s hut on the site, making for a quiet and restful stay.
The shepherd’s hut which comes with a private bathroom including a shower, a well-equipped kitchen so you can make a delicious meal and even a firepit outside.
But if you don’t feel like cooking then why not take a short walk to the cosy pub nearby?
The most glamorous part of this site is the private wood-burning hot tub from which you can take in the wonderful views of the countryside.
It’s also in a great peaceful location near the Cornish town of Launceston, home to a Norman castle which is one of my favourites in the region!
Perran Sands Holiday Park
For glamping trips that the whole family will enjoy, you need to consider staying at Perran Sands Holiday Park. There’s so much on offer here to keep the kids entertained whilst still being close to nature.
It’s set right on Perranporth Beach, so you can roll out of bed in the morning to enjoy a lovely morning stroll. At this site you can choose from safari tents, yurts or geo domes to stay in which all offer bed linen, lighting and electric sockets as well as cooking facilities.
There’s so much on offer here besides the excellent beachfront location such as an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, surf school, amusement arcade, play area, climbing wall and so much more.
There are also lots of places to eat and it even has an on-site supermarket so you can pick up the essentials.
Riviere Sands
If tons of entertainment and activities at holiday parks are what you’re looking for from your glamping trip, then this holiday park is a great option.
Riviere Sands is located just steps to the beautiful Hayle Beach in St Ives Bay. The site also has a surf school, an indoor and outdoor pool with slides and an amusement arcade.
This holiday park is also just a 20-minute drive from St Ives (you’re in St Ives Bay, but the roads need to go around the Hayle Estuary which takes a bit of time!).
St Ives is one of the best places to visit in Cornwall and it’s buzzing with amenities, beautiful beaches, shops and restaurants. However, if you want to stay on-site, there are restaurants, a fish and chip shop and Papa John’s pizza takeaway at Riviere Sands!
Tipi Glamping Penzance
Situated close to Penzance, this is an excellently located glamping site if you’re wanting to stay close to the beach.
Each tipi comes with a comfortable bed, seating area and kitchen facilities. There is also a shared bathroom with a shower.
It’s also just a 5-minute drive to Penzance with its many shops and restaurants to enjoy, and is close to famous Cornwall landmarks the Minack Theatre and St Michael’s Mount.
Hornbeam – Luxury Glamping Pod Laneast Cornwall
These glamping pods are well-presented with far-reaching views of the Cornish countryside. There are also only two glamping pods on-site, making it a secluded location for your glamping trip.
The glamping pods are also well-equipped with cooking facilities, a private bathroom, living room and a seating area.
There’s even a firepit to enjoy that also doubles up as a BBQ. If you’re not ready to go completely off-grid for your camping trip, then you can take advantage of the free WiFi here.
When you’re ready to venture out, the glamping site is close to Cornwall attractions like Launceston Castle and Tintagel Castle.
Coutts Glamping
This glamping site offers excellent views over the Atlantic and the countryside and is set in its own beautiful and peaceful gardens.
Here you can choose from luxury tents, cabins or a shepherd’s hut for your glamping trip.
Each has its own cooking facilities and garden area as well as your own toilet within the shower and toilet block.
A wood-burning stove that uses environmentally friendly, locally sourced wood ensures that you won’t get cold.
It’s also in a stunning countryside location just outside Wadebridge, with a local pub just a two-minute walk away and a supermarket a five-minute drive away. You’re also 12 minutes from one of my favourite Cornwall attractions, Tarquins Gin Distillery.
While Wadebridge is the closest town, Coutts Glamping is also in vicinity to popular tourist spots like Padstow, Port Isaac and Polzeath.
What to pack when glamping in Cornwall
There are two main things you need to take into account when packing for your glamping trip: what the weather will be like and what facilities you will have.
With the unpredictableness of the Cornish weather, don’t forget layers and a raincoat!
Check what facilities your accommodation will have beforehand so you don’t end up overpacking.
Here are a few things you won’t want to forget. Click through on the item name for my recommendation (I usually buy outdoor gear from Go Outdoors):
- Torch: a head torch is even better, as it means you can see the way hands-free. I use a Petzl head torch.
- Wellies: as glamping sites in Cornwall are usually on farmland and you can’t trust the British weather! For something cheap and cheerful, these Dunlop wellies will do the job. But if you want something more high-quality, there’s no welly better than Hunters.
- Flip Flops or sandals: these are useful if you have shared bathroom facilities. I love these Merrell sandals.
- Walking boots: these are perfect if you’re hiking from your glamping sites! Merrell also do great walking boots – check them out here.
- Toiletries: from soap to toothpaste, not many glamping sites will supply you with toiletries! Don’t forget a toiletry bag as well – this Osprey bag is waterproof and durable.
All you need to know about Cornish glamping holidays!
Hopefully, this has helped you decide where to stay for your luxury camping trip to Cornwall, whether it’s in a yurt, glamping pod or a shepherd’s hut!
Check out my Cornwall archives for more posts about visiting this part of the UK, and if you have any questions feel free to drop me a message on Instagram – I’m always happy to help!
