Famed for its beaches, rolling countryside, and top-notch restaurants, Cornwall is one of our favourite staycation destinations in the UK. When the weather participates, families, couples, and friends flock here to escape the hustle of the cities and recharge.
If there is any type of accommodation that fits seamlessly into the region, it would be a shepherd’s hut. These small homes offer a glimpse into Cornwall’s rich rural heritage while providing guests a chance to disconnect in the countryside AND seaside at the same time.
In fact, this type of accommodation has become so popular it’s tough to narrow down the list of the top shepherd’s hut in Cornwall. This is where I come in… I’ve spent more than my fair share of time in shepherd’s huts in and around Cornwall and the UK.
Whether you’re after a basic budget hut or are looking for an indulgent shepherd hut with a hot tub and indoor fireplace, getting off-grid or onto the beach, you’re in the right place. Here are the BEST shepherd huts in Cornwall.
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Lilliput Shepherds Hut in Holsworthy
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > BBQ facilities
- > Cosy wooden interiors
Cosy Shepherds Hut with Pizza Oven
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Pet-friendly
- > Garden setting near Perranporth
Homey Shepherds Hut with Fireplace near Perranporth
- > $$$$
- > 2 Guests
- > Outdoor BBQ and dining area
- > A short drive from the beach
Staying in a Shepherds Hut in Cornwall
So, what exactly is a shepherd’s hut? Well, they are a type of wagon or portable home that has been used since the 15th century by shepherds travelling across the UK and France. They would typically have wheels and corrugated iron roofs, a small door entrance, and a combined living, eating, and cooking space.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Today, the noble hut has progressed into a fully livable space, usually permanently positioned in a lush garden setting with a patio, balcony, or terrace: a countryside tiny home. While space is usually tight, today, shepherd huts are beautifully designed to maximize space with clever storage options and basic interiors.
The main feature that makes shepherd’s huts so appealing is their location within the region’s most stunning landscapes. Usually removed from civilization, guests can experience the Cornish countryside in an authentic and immersive way.
What to Look For in a Shepherds Hut in The UK
While petite in size, interiors are cosy and handmade, usually with a wood-burning fire and warm wooden interiors. If you ask me, this is the perfect interior combination for a winter or summer stay – both being just as good at the other.
Huts will have a small kitchenette, usually fitted with all the necessities in mini form. If you visit during the summer months, there are loads of huts with BBQ and outdoor dining areas so you can take advantage of the good weather and long British days.
These days, huts will also come with a fitted bathroom with a small shower, sink, and toilet. For an ultra-luxurious experience, there are plenty of shepherd huts that come with a private hot tub – all for you.
Top 4 Shepherds Huts in Cornwall
When you’re choosing where to stay in Cornwall, shepherd’s huts should be top of your search list. From the most basic to beautiful shepherd’s huts with indoor fireplaces and hot tubs, here are the 10 best shepherd huts in Cornwall.
Delightful One-Bed Lilliput Shepherds Hut in Holsworthy | Overall Best Value Shepherds Hut in Cornwall
Surrounded by tall trees and countryside vistas, you’ll forget all about your city worries in this comfy one-bedroom shepherd’s hut. The hut has all the necessities for a two-person visit, as well as access to a picnic area and free parking.
Places to Visit Nearby:
- Holsworthy
- Bude
- Tamar Lakes
Set on a private piece of farmland just outside one of Cornwall’s best places to visit, this one-bedroom shepherd’s hut is perfectly spacious for two guests. When the sun is shining, sip a cup of English tea on the sunny terrace and spend some time exploring the surrounding garden and farm.
On a cool evening, light up the wood-burning fireplace and snuggle up in your very own Cornish countryside haven. End your day by preparing a hearty meal in the kitchen, and enjoy it under the covered outdoor terrace next to the hut. Does it get cosier than this?
Cosy Shepherds Hut with Pizza Oven | Best Budget Shepherds Hut in Cornwall
If you’re after the best shepherd’s hut in Cornwall on a budget, look no further. Nestled in the long countryside grass near Perranporth, you’ll hardly believe this property is on the rental market with a price tag that suits almost any cheap travel budget.
It’s surrounded by green trees and lush gardens and has a beautiful outdoor dining and living area with a BBQ and a wood-fired pizza oven. Huge win!
Inside the cabin, guests can make use of the fully equipped kitchen when the weather isn’t good enough to cook outside. To top things off, the hut has a spacious ensuite bathroom with a heated towel rail and a full-sized shower.
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View on Osprey View on REIHomey Shepherds Hut with Fireplace near Perranporth | Over-the-Top Luxury Shepherds Hut in Cornwall
Shepherd huts aren’t usually luxurious in the traditional sense of the word. Instead, they are typically small, fitted with just the basics, and make affordable holiday rentals in Cornwall.
But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for opulence. This shepherd’s hut close to Perranporth has lake views and is as close as you’ll get to a luxury tiny home.
It’s been furnished with high-quality wooden cabinets, a wood-burning fireplace, and top-of-the-range appliances and linens. The bed folds out over the dining table to maximize space, and there is also a gorgeous outdoor patio with a fire pit and dining table.
Spacious Hut with Hot Tub Near Beach | Best Shepherds Hut for Couples in Cornwall
By definition, a shepherd’s hut is an epic type of accommodation for couples in the UK. They are homey, small, and charming, all without being too expensive. This gorgeous home is one of the larger on the list, based on a traditional shepherd’s hut, but much more spacious.
Still, all living is done in one room, where there is a comfortable bed, living space, kitchen, and dining area, with a private ensuite bathroom attached. Ideal for travelling couples, guests can stroll 5 minutes to the beach for a cool dip and return to warm up in the hot tub. Talk about paradise!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Shepherd’s Huts in Cornwall
Let it be heard: there’s plenty more to come! Here are some more GREAT options if you’re looking to rent a shepherd’s hut in Cornwall.
Shepherds Hut with Views of Porthtowans
From the outside, you’d never believe this property was large enough enough to fit 4 guests. However, once inside, the tiny home feels spacious and airy. There are 2 bedrooms in this unique accommodation in Cornwall (and by “bedrooms”, I mean “bed sections”); one with a double bed and another with two bunk beds.
Between countryside walks and Cornish road trip adventures, relax on the covered patio, which is protected from the wind. This is also the best spot to sit and eat a meal, which can be prepared in the basic kitchenette.
2-Bedroom Shepherds Hut with Wood-Fired Hot Tub
Let’s get real: A traditional shepherd’s hut is typically a bit small for a family of 6. However, designed for a larger group with small kids, these shepherd’s huts are spacious enough for a family and are just 2.5 miles from the gorgeous beaches of Portreath and Porthowen.
As the best shepherd’s hut in Cornwall for families, this property includes two huts adjacent to each other, featuring a spacious kitchen, a living and dining area, and one and a half bathrooms. If you’ve ever wanted to give your family the experience of real farm-life off-grid living with no Wi-Fi, this is your chance!
Rustic Shepherds Hut in the Heart of Cornwall
This might just be my favourite shepherd’s hut of the bunch. It’s beautifully hand-crafted, located in the heart of Cornwall, and is on the market for an absolute steal of a price. Seriously, this tiny home has a permanent bed section (not a given in this type of accommodation), a fully equipped kitchen with a farmhouse sink, views across the countryside, a wood-burning fireplace, and a cosy living space.
Every detail of this spot will blow you away, from the brass fittings in the bathroom to the ultra-luxurious linen to the huge windows that invite plenty of natural light into the space. Jokes aside, I could live here.
Classic Shepherds Hut with Countryside Views
Whether you’re lying in bed with a good book, brushing your teeth at the bathroom sink, or sitting in the small living space, you’ll be blessed with views from one of the most beautiful places in the UK, just about every point in this shepherd’s hut.
Newly built with classy wooden countertops and floors, a wood-burning fireplace to keep the place toasty warm, and plenty of natural light, this hut is basically a luxury farmhouse… scaled down.
One of my favourite things about this unique accommodation in Cornwall is its outdoor dining terrace, which boasts panoramic views of the surrounding Cornish countryside.
Brook Shepherds Hut with Raised Terrace
Nestled between towering trees in Saltash, Brook is a homemade shepherd’s hut with a garden and BBQ facilities. Inside the hut, guests can prepare a feast in the well-equipped kitchenette, warm up by the log-burning fireplace, and watch a movie in the living space.
But that’s not all; it’s also beautifully designed, with plenty of windows inviting the outdoors in. Overflowing with sunshine and natural light, this cheerful wooden shepherd’s hut is the perfect spot for any season. Oh, and did we mention it has free Wi-Fi? Perfect if you’re living as a digital nomad.
Shepherds Hut with Hot Tub by the Beach
If you’re able to extend your stay and spend a few weeks or even months in Cornwall, look no further than this exceptional shepherd’s hut by the beach. It’s fitted with everything you might need to slow your travels down (a basic kitchen, comfortable bed, dining space, and full bathroom with a shower) as well as a few luxurious extras.
After a day on the beach or exploring the Cornish coastline, you can indulge in the bubbling wood-fired hot tub. With a gorgeous stream at the bottom of the property and acres of farmland to explore, this spot is totally removed from the hustle of everyday life.
Don’t Forget Your Cornwall Travel Insurance
Nowhere is 100% safe – that’s a fact. So when you’re on the move, having good travel insurance is always a priority!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Shepherds Huts in Cornwall
Final Thoughts on Shepherds Huts in Cornwall
A stay in one of the best shepherd’s huts in Cornwall promises a comfortable combination of rustic simplicity and modern comfort. Farmers and property owners have taken onto the trend, hand-crafting exquisite huts with modern features and fittings that are equipped for rental in any season.
There really is no better way to experience the English countryside. You’ll have everything you need – no more, no less.
Access to a snug indoor fireplace and a well-appointed kitchen, comfortable living quarters, and, most importantly, you’ll be located in the thick of the countryside. Could you ask for anything more?
Bit of beach, bit of countryside, lots of fish & chips, and maybe a bit of sunburn too. Get me off-grid!
- Then be sure to devise an epic road trip in Cornwall before you go.
- Our in-depth backpacking UK guide has all the essential info for your trip.
- There are loads of cool places to visit in Cornwall.
- Check out our where to stay in Cornwall guide to choose the perfect area!
- Then there are the best surf beaches in the UK.
- Get yourself covered with good travel insurance before you go.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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