The Headland Hotel & Spa ★★★★

In summer Cornwall is a seaside paradise filled with sprawling beaches and a laidback lifestyle. Come autumn and it reveals a new personality entirely – think golden colours, low lighting, and that cosy British charm that seems to infect everyone at this time of year. Despite its reputation as a summer destination thanks to its warm weather and seaside resorts, autumn and winter in Cornwall are also a treat, not least because the crowds have somewhat dispersed. Sunbathing is replaced by long walks along windswept beaches, wrapped up warm in chunky knit jumpers, whilst summer barbecues evolve into cosy afternoons in pubs, sipping local brews and catching up with friends and family. Despite the colder weather, from autumn through to spring the Atlantic swells offer perfect conditions to surf, paddleboard or kayak (but make sure you have a good wetsuit!).
Fistral Beach is one of the most iconic hotspots in Cornwall, known for its annual surf competitions and its wide swathe of sand. It is along this picturesque stretch of beach that I find The Headland Hotel, a luxury hotel that overlooks the sea, taking in the mass of greens, blues, and golds that paint the region.

Inside, the rooms reflect the cool, seaside vibe. Whitewashed walls look down on blues in every shade, and the views look out over Newquay Bay, the croquet lawn, tennis courts, and towards the countryside. Plush furnishings enhance the cosy atmosphere yet the hotel remains bright and spacious; a veritable VeryChic hotel.

There is an experience waiting around every corner, from delicious afternoon tea served to the sound of crashing waves, to the sumptuous restaurant that delivers locally sourced dishes freshly prepared to perfection. The charm of high English glamour is imbued in every corner of The Headland Hotel, from the chinking glasses and wall-to-wall windows in the restaurant to the attention to detail in the food and drink. In warmer weather there is the terrace, too, which offers incredible views across the ocean and beyond.

Though Newquay’s heart beats faster in summer, there is still plenty to do in autumn and winter – the town itself is a hotbed of activities, from boutique shopping experiences to local galleries and designer cafes. But afternoons spent at the hotel were the highlight of my day, warming up with delicious food and the sense that I was really getting away from it all. The spa certainly helped in that respect, and the hotel’s accolade as the only hotel in Cornwall to be awarded the ‘five bubble’ award for its spa meant the treatments and relaxation experiences was second to none.

The indulgence of The Headland Hotel swept away all of my worries as I soaked up the traditional seaside ambiance, the great facilities, and the incredible views. I have no doubt I’ll be back again – it really is the perfect autumn break for all the family.