Perched on the Roseland Peninsula, St Mawes is one of Cornwall’s most elegant and picturesque coastal villages. With its pastel cottages, calm harbour, and stunning views across the Fal Estuary, it’s long been a favourite for sailors and visitors seeking a slower, scenic pace of life.
- Historic harbour roots – St Mawes was once a thriving fishing village and small port, trading in pilchards and other local catches that were shipped across the Channel.
- St Mawes Castle – The village is home to one of the best-preserved Tudor coastal fortresses in England. Built by Henry VIII in the 1540s, St Mawes Castle guarded the Fal Estuary alongside Pendennis Castle in Falmouth.
- Roseland Peninsula gem – St Mawes sits at the tip of the Roseland Peninsula, one of Cornwall’s most beautiful and unspoilt regions, known for its rolling countryside, quiet coves, and wildflower-lined lanes.
- Sailing haven – The calm waters of the Carrick Roads make St Mawes a favourite destination for sailors. The harbour fills with yachts during summer regattas and local sailing events.
- The Lugger Hotel – This award-winning waterside hotel is one of Cornwall’s most romantic stays, offering luxurious rooms and a restaurant with panoramic sea views.
- Ferry to Falmouth – A regular passenger ferry links St Mawes and Falmouth, providing a scenic 20-minute trip across the water and avoiding a long drive around the estuary.
- Celebrity appeal – St Mawes has become a discreet hideaway for well-known figures over the years, with several high-profile visitors choosing it for its peace and privacy.
- Beautiful beaches – The village has a handful of small, sheltered beaches perfect for swimming and paddling, all within walking distance of the harbour and seafront.
- Walking trails – From St Mawes, walkers can enjoy coastal routes to St Just in Roseland, where the churchyard garden slopes down to the water and is filled with subtropical plants.
- Timeless charm – Despite its growing popularity, St Mawes has retained its quiet, genteel character, with narrow lanes, whitewashed cottages, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
St Mawes is a perfect blend of history, elegance, and coastal beauty, a place where you can wander, sail, and unwind while soaking in some of Cornwall’s most peaceful scenery.
You can watch my videos of St Mawes over on my YouTube channel.