Cornwall in Autumn: A Perfect Off-Season Escape

Autumn in Cornwall is quietly magical. The crowds have thinned, the beaches feel almost private, and the light softens across the dramatic coastline. It's the perfect season for walking, exploring, and cosy evenings by a fire. Nestled in Mount Hawke, near St Agnes and Porthtowan, Little Beside Cottage offers a design-led, eco-conscious home-from-home for families, walkers, surfers, and dog lovers looking to experience Cornwall in its quieter, golden months.

Why Autumn is Special in Cornwall

Cornwall in autumn is a season of contrasts — warm sun, crisp air, and windswept cliffs. From late September through November, the countryside and coast take on rich, mellow hues, making coastal walks along the South West Coast Path particularly memorable. Wildlife is abundant, sea air is bracing, and the pace of life slows, giving space to reconnect with nature, your companions, and yourself.

Walking & Coastal Trails: The section of the South West Coast Path near Little Beside is one of the most dramatic in Cornwall, offering cliffs, secret coves, and historic mining sites.
Peace & Quiet: With fewer visitors, autumn offers the chance to enjoy beaches, trails, and pubs without the summer crowds.
Seasonal Flavours: Harvest markets, local cider, and cosy pub fare make Cornwall in autumn a sensory delight.

Why Stay at Little Beside in Autumn

At Little Beside, we've designed the cottage to make off-season breaks effortless and comfortable. With two bathrooms including a wetroom, an outdoor shower and board rack, underfloor heating, a wood burner, and a sunny enclosed garden, it's both practical and cosy. Modern touches like fast Wi-Fi and a Sage coffee machine make it easy to settle in after a day on the coast.

“What a fantastic place... really well kitted out and looks great too. Very comfortable and great facilities. Location excellent for exploring. Loved it. Great hosts, great property... can't recommend highly enough and hope to be back.”
— 5-star Airbnb review

“Such a lovely cottage that feels really homely. The kitchen was great and had everything we needed. The bedrooms were comfortable. In fact everything was perfect for us. It was the ideal base for me as I was walking the South West Coast Path from Mawgan Porth to Pendeen Lighthouse.”
— 5-star Airbnb review

Autumn Walks & Activities

Clifftop Walks: From the cottage, access some of the most scenic sections of the South West Coast Path. Dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and sweeping sea views await.
Historic Mining Coast: Stroll through the heart of Cornwall's mining heritage, with ruins and landscapes that tell stories of the past.
Dog-Friendly Exploration: Bring your four-legged friends; trails and beaches nearby are ideal for autumn adventures.

Practical Tips for an Autumn Stay

Layer Up: Weather can be changeable; pack waterproof boots, jackets, and layers.
Timing: Check sunset and tide times for beach walks or surf sessions.
Booking Ahead: Some pubs and attractions may reduce hours outside peak season.
Relax & Recharge: Take advantage of quieter walks, cosy nights in, and slower mornings in the cottage.

A Home-from-Home for All Seasons

Autumn at Little Beside is about easy living: dry your boots, rinse off sea salt, light the wood burner, and relax. The cottage's thoughtful details — handmade furniture, practical storage, and modern comforts — make it a sanctuary for couples, families, surfers, walkers, and dog owners alike.

Whether it's a weekend escape or a full week, Cornwall in autumn offers magic in every turn of the path, every gust of sea air, and every cosy evening by the fire. And Little Beside is perfectly placed to let you experience it all.