The tiny English seaside village so pretty it's been dubbed UK's answer to California
St Mawgan in Cornwall offers stunning sand beaches and a rich history.
Nestled in the wooded Lanherne valley, just four miles north of Newquay, lies the picturesque village of St Mawgan.
Known officially as Mawgan in Pydar, this charming village has recently earned the nickname "Britain's California" for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant community.
St Mawgan is perhaps most renowned for being the home of Newquay Cornwall Airport, which originated as part of RAF St Mawgan. This airfield, opened in 1933, was repurposed during World War II as an outpost of RAF St Eval. Today, it serves as a training facility and hosts Cornwall's Air Ambulance Service.
The village itself is a quintessential Cornish haven, complete with a 13th-century parish church dedicated to St Maganus and St Nicholas.
This church, endowed by the Arundells of Lanherne who resided in the manor house from the 13th to the 18th centuries, still stands as a testament to the village’s rich history. In the churchyard, a memorial rowing boat stern commemorates men who tragically drifted ashore frozen to death in 1846.
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St Mawgan’s charm extends beyond its historical sites. The village is characterized by its friendly pubs, quaint tea rooms, and unique craft shops. Notably, the Japanese Garden, with its 20,000 bonsai trees, offers a surprising and serene retreat amidst wind chimes, rock sculptures, and moss gardens, providing a little Zen escape in the heart of Cornwall.
Visitors are drawn to this coastal gem not only for its historical allure but also for its proximity to some of Cornwall's most breathtaking beaches. The dramatic coastline is perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, and swimming. Nearby Mawgan Porth, Newquay, and Watergate Bay offer surf schools, with Fistral Beach recognized globally as one of the premier surfing destinations.
The National Trust’s Bedruthan Steps, with its spectacular views and cliff-top flowers, is another highlight. Many visitors extend their visit to explore more of the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile journey that wraps around the South West peninsula from Minehead to Poole.
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Cornwall’s reputation for stunning gardens is also well represented in St Mawgan. Within a 40-minute drive, visitors can explore the futuristic Eden Project or the retro Lost Gardens of Heligan, both of which reflect Cornwall's grand country estate heritage.
Dining in St Mawgan offers equally delightful experiences. Hawkey’s Cafe serves hearty breakfasts and snacks from early morning, while the Falcon Inn offers delicious home-cooked meals daily except Monday.
The nearby Watergate Bay Hotel provides a range of dining options, from the horizon-view fine dining at Zacry’s to the casual beachside menu at The Beach Hut. The Living Space at the hotel blends relaxed terrace seating with indoor comfort, making it easy for guests to transition from coffee to cocktails throughout the day.
