If you are keen to visit some of Britain’s best beaches, self-catering holidays in Cornwall are the perfect choice for an idyllic break. Occupying the south-western peninsula of the UK, Cornwall is home to 300 beaches boasting picturesque views and soft sand.

Those staying in beach holiday homes will find they have some 697 km of coastline to explore, as 80 per cent of the area is surrounded by sea. And since you are never more than 16 miles from the shore in Cornwall, you can rest assured getting to the beach from your Cornwall self-catering accommodation will be no problem at all.

West Cornwall is home to some fantastic beaches, many of which possess a Blue Flag award – an international marker of quality. Ever popular with families and tourists, they are also frequented by surfers, divers and fans of other water sports.

Porthmeor beach in St Ives is a favourite of surfers and bodyborders, who flock to the waves on a regular basis. With wonderfully soft golden sand, this beach is equally attractive for those who just want to lie down and relax – and it has the added bonus of being able to watch skilled sportspeople in action in the water.

Equally popular with surfers is Porthtowan beach, while it’s also an excellent destination for families – and even has a children’s park nearby for energetic youngsters. This is the perfect all-round beach for those looking for a little bit of everything.

Meanwhile, Sennen Cove Beach at Land’s End also holds the prestigious Blue Flag status. With rock pools at either end of the beach, this mile-long stretch of sand is a quiet and attractive location for those looking to escape from the crowds.

And beaches are not the only attraction in west Cornwall. Foodies will find this area a culinary paradise filled with traditional treats such as pasties and cream teas, as well as haute cuisine and microbreweries.

To experience some of the most picturesque and high-quality beaches in England, there is no better place to go than Cornwall. With a huge amount of sandy havens to choose from, Cornwall has beaches for surfers, sunbathers and families alike.