Luxury self-catering accommodation in Helford

It's hard to believe, for those who make the drive this far into Cornwall, that the sleepy sanctuary of Helford is still in the present day, with its ancient oak forest, meandering lazy creek and thatched cottages. The area has a rich maritime history, having once been a busy coastal port; pirates are said to have 'traded' here during Napoleonic times and it even had an old customs house. These days you can take a pedestrian ferry across the river, where gardens at Trebah and Glendurgan are home to sub-tropical flora enjoying the mild southern climate.

Back on the footpath, follow the trail into the village again, right up to the door of the old Shipwrights Arms for a crisp, local cider. For day trips, Gweek Seal Sanctuary is a short drive away for a visit to the rescued residents, as they happily splash about in several pools. Walkers can head off on the circular route around Frenchman's Creek and back, made famous by Daphne Du Maurier's romantic novel of the same name; this whole area is well worth exploring for its sleepy, romantic aura. Might as well pack a pen and paper in case inspiration strikes…