We won’t call this village a ‘hidden gem’ because its magnificently chic existence is no secret — in fact, its popularity with the rich and the famous adds to its elusive charm. Comfortably perched at the very tip of a stunning peninsula, when we say the views looking out from this hamlet are unmatched — we mean it.

If the promise of unparalleled views isn’t enough to entice you to give it a chance, there are plenty more attractions on the list: fresh local produce, Michelin guide restaurants boasting world-class food, a spectacular waterside location and vibrant community spirit in spades. All these things and more make the fishing village of St Mawes in Cornwall a certified ‘must-visit’ destination.

Located at the absolute tip of the Roseland Peninsula, this treasure in South Cornwall is easily one of Britain’s most desirable holiday destinations, often earning the moniker ‘the St Tropez of England’.

It has everything you could want in a quick getaway — a crystal-clear cove with waters reminiscent of the Caribbean, colourful and cute cottages dripping with seaside charm, eateries good enough to send someone into a food coma, and the bow wrapping up the already stunning present — a castle.

It’s no surprise, then, that The Times recently listed it among the ‘most beautiful places to visit’ in England. What’s surprising is that it isn’t completely overrun with tourism just yet — unlike St Ives or Padstow — and that’s probably down to its time-consuming-to-reach remote geography.

Reaching this Cornish village is not impossible by any means, though — a scenic car ferry or 40-minute drive from St Austell or Truro will get you there easily.

What’s special about the seaside village

St Mawes has a rich boating heritage, being built around a stunning sheltered harbour on the Fal Estuary’s eastern side — undoubtedly one of the best spots for sailing in the country.

High-end waterfront restaurants add to this hamlet’s unshakeable allure, with one of the hotels (Hotel Tresanton) even offering its own yacht, Pinuccia, for hire.

If you don’t believe us, believe the royals. St Mawes has proved to be a certified favourite of the Royal Family, with King Charles and Queen Camilla often frequenting the village during their annual visits to the region as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall.

St Mawes seemed to have been a hit with the older generation of royals as well, with the village dubbed as one of Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother’s favourite destinations during their voyages on the Royal Yacht Britannia.

The charm is universal (and cross-generational), it seems, because in recent years, Prince William and Princess Kate have also been known to bring their family to the seaside paradise.

Foodie haven

For a village with a population of roughly 700 people, give or take, St Mawes is brimming with enough dining options to put even the most food-focused cities to shame.

Serving mouthwateringly fresh seafood using local Cornish produce and jaw-dropping harbour views, The Idle Rocks is a Michelin Guide restaurant that may well blow your socks off if you give it a go.

Another waterside gem, Hotel Tresanton, was awarded one of the inaugural Michelin Keys in 2024, recognising remarkable hotels around the world. The cocktails and atmosphere of the establishment are often referred to as ‘top-tier’ by visitors, and the breathtaking view of St Anthony’s Lighthouse doesn’t hurt either.

St Mawes Bakery is another must-visit, especially for lunch, while the neighbouring St Mawes Seafood Bar serves… well, unmatched seafood. Afternoon tipples can be enjoyed at The Rising Sun or the more traditional Victory Inn, while the St Mawes Hotel is also great for a sit-down meal. Cafe Chandlers is also great for coffee and exquisite, freshly baked treats. Harbourside dining at The Watch House in St Mawes is obviously a no-brainer.

Things to do in the seaside haven

At the top of the list is visiting St Mawes’ unique, clover leaf-shaped St Mawes Castle — a spectacular testament to Tudor artistry and engineering. Almost perfectly round, this breathtaking piece of history and architecture was built by Henry VIII. Kids, especially, will love the countless cannons lined up in the castle’s tiered lawns, which overlook the stunning bay no less.

Shops and galleries add a touch of the artsy vibe any affluent village needs to make it truly stand out, with the Waterside Gallery making for an excellent stop.

Summers Beach is a great sheltered spot to go swimming (not always a given in Cornwall), and Tavern Beach, closer to the castle, is perfect for some good ol’ fashioned rock-pooling.

Harbour Beach, located right in the centre and only accessible during low tide, is the place to go with your furry companions. It’s important to note there are no lifeguards on duty in St Mawes. Don’t forget to make a stop at Lamorran House Gardens, with its little bridges and tumbling waterways.

There’s no dearth of things to do in this Cornish village, making it the ideal destination for your next UK getaway.