The great thing about The Valley is that it feels like the middle of nowhere, yet you're right outside Falmouth and within easy striking distance of loads of other places in Cornwall, whether it's St Ives or Newquay. It's the perfect place to stay with young children – a large complex of mostly two- and three-bed self-catering cottage properties in all manner of styles. Each is ultra-clean, nicely furnished and well-equipped with kitchens with all mod cons, plus there's free WiFi and lots of books and games. Some cottages are dog-friendly; others have private hot tubs. There are complimentary high chairs, door guards and cots for families with little ones, to save on packing stress. In recognition of their offering, The Valley won 'Bronze' for Dog-Friendly Business of the Year' at the Cornwall Tourism Awards (two years running), and was commended for 'Self Catering Accommodation'.
The complex itself encompasses a fab restaurant, two swimming pools (outdoor and indoor), a spa and fitness facilities, plus tennis and squash courts – all in a lovely peaceful location. If you're keen to explore beyond The Valley, the friendly team delivers tailored leaflets to each cottage with ideas for days out, depending on the weather. And they're always buzzing around the site and at reception, if you have any questions. There are pre-bookable welcome hampers available and housekeeping options, and during the summer holidays and October half-term, families can enjoy free activities on site, including archery lessons, exotic animal meet and greet, yoga classes and lots more!
Food-wise, Masterchef quarterfinalist Ched Ondine is at the helm in the restaurant – 'Hart of The Valley' – dishing up seasonal and locally inspired dishes. There's also a wood-fired pizza oven, for something more casual. Out and about, Truro is just a 10-minute drive away, Falmouth is 20 and St Ives, St Mawes, and Newquay are reachable within 40. After a day seeing the sights or visiting nearby beaches, head back to The Valley for a swim or a dip in your hot tub.
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Food & Drink
Our on-site restaurant 'Hart of The Valley' is run by MasterChef quarter-finalist and award-winning Chef Ondine. Open between Easter and November 1st, it serves beautiful freshly prepared and locally inspired dishes daily and offers lots of child-friendly options, including delicious wood-fired pizzas. You can choose to have your food in the surroundings of the restaurant or delivered straight to your cottage, and at certain times of the year, including Christmas, there are special pre-prepared packages available.
Open
Open all year.
Pricing
High season prices from £1722 per week; off-peak prices from £800 per week; and short breaks from £600. There's a £25 charge per dog per week – cottages include a dog bed, blanket, bowl, complimentary treat pack from Bob & Lush, even more treats, and of course a tennis ball!
Reviews
Let us know what you think of your stay.
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Rated ★★★★★ over 22 reviews
★★★★★
Perfect Family and Dog Friendly Stay with Thoughtful Extras
We recently stayed here as a family with two young children (aged 3 and 5) and our dog, and it was honestly one of the best dog friendly accommodations we’ve experienced. We had a spacious cottage that was perfect for all of us. I loved the layout (ie the different levels) which made it memorable and comfortable for a family stay. There were plenty of bathrooms, including bath and walk in shower, and the children loved using the space under the stairs to create their own little den — it kept them happily entertained!
There were so many lovely extra touches throughout, from the doggy treats waiting for our pooch, and even a cute mailbox newsletter with weather updates and local tips. It really felt like the owners had thought of everything to make guests feel welcome.
Although the site has some great facilities, we didn’t actually get the chance to use them much because the weather was glorious during our stay. Instead, we spent our days exploring nearby beaches, charming villages, and beautiful countryside spots. It’s a fantastic base for day trips, with so much to see and do in the area.
The only small suggestions I left on the feedback form were about improving the site map. It would be helpful if it was a little clearer, and adding more signage around the site showing which way to the different numbered cottages. Other than that, everything was excellent, and we would absolutely love to return!
★★★★★
Lovely week in The Valley
We had a great week at The Valley! It's a well maintained gated complex of houses in pretty landscaped grounds with small indoor and outdoor pools, gym, tennis court, football field, playground, games room and dog walks all on site.
Location wise we found it convenient for us exploring Cornwall by car. There are some walks from the grounds and there's a good local shop 4 mins drive/20 mins walk.
Our 2 bed house was very comfortable and spacious. The houses are modern, well designed and decorated to a high standard with lots of storage cupboards, side lamps etc. Loved having an ensuite bathroom for each room plus a guest loo. Good wifi. There was a problem with the water when we arrived and the maintenance manager (who lives in site) came and fixed it in minutes. All the staff were super friendly and helpful.
We booked the indoor pool every day for a half hour slot. It's not big but you can still get a decent swim and it was lovely having the pool and jacuzzi to ourselves.
All in all a very enjoyable and restful break, thank you!
★★★★★
Perfect spring break
Such a great break. The accommodation was extremely comfortable and tastefully decorated, light and airy. The pool was warm and it was nice to have a personal slot. A good base to explore Cornwall. The staff were efficient and helpful without being intrusive. To be recommended.
★★★★★
We just love this place. It is our go-to for staycations.
The houses are gorgeous: so comfortable and everything top spec. I always sleep so well there in the comfy beds and peaceful surroundings.
The sports facilities are absolutely great. We love a good family tennis tournament, make good use of the games room and the pool is brilliant on days we don't fancy the beach.
Restaurant is just fab and a nice space to work from in the day (if needed). We always like to treat ourselves at the pop up food events too.
The location is spot on: close to several lovely beaches and just down the road is the trail that's perfect for cycling and running.
The staff truly top the whole experience off: so friendly and helpful.
★★★★★
Found a gem!
Peaceful, dog friendly, site with quality accommodation and facilities. Well situated for days out exploring and then head back to a wonderful on-site restaurant. Communication from booking until we left, with a goody bag for the trip home, was exemplary. Professional and courteous staff are to be applauded. We’ll certainly return.
★★★★★
Another great visit
Have visited the Valley in Carnon Down for the past 9/10 years. Never been disappointed, always received a great service.
★★★★★
Comfort, nature and simplicity
Fantastically located near the south coast and on the disused trainline there are so many activities and places near by. The onsite indoor and outdoor pools, food, games, sports and bar are more than you would have hoped for. The accommodation is spacious, well built, well designed and it definitely has a 5 star feel. The gardens are so typical of Cornwall and very well maintained.
We go most years and we have a different but familiar experience every time. Such an easy holiday.
★★★★★
A May break in the Valley
The Valley is a super holiday development with excellent facilities. Our dog friendly house was immaculate and the extra touches were much appreciated.
★★★★★
5 Star all round
Perfect base for exploring Cornwall, just tucked out the way enough for a peaceful retreat. Everything on site for all the family to enjoy. Especially loved booking the pool all to myself in half hour slots. Cottages are extremely well equipped, spotless and spacious. If you have a dog, there are plenty of paths in the woods for walkies and love that they have a fenced off field so you can let them off lead. We highly recommend The Hart of the Valley bar and restaurant, they have theme nights, gorgeous food which is reasonably priced and lovely friendly staff.
★★★★★
Relaxing, clean and comfortable accommodation with excellent customer service
We've been to The Valley before and the service levels always remain high. It's a great base to discover/travel Cornwall and it's a huge bonus that you can take your dog. Ours was treated wonderfully and the accommodation is excellent for both two and four legged occupants. Our children are older now but is excellent for families with smaller children as also well catered for and there are lovely little activities in the holidays.
★★★★★
Lovely dog-friendly stay
A wonderful welcome from Lauren and her team awaited us! Our cottage was spotless and the doggy welcome packs a lovely touch! We think the dog tags are one of the best ideas. Lovely on site restaurant and food was great! Big portions so visit hungry. Dogs enjoyed the enclosed park, woodland walk and wash station for after a muddy walk. A fab base to explore Cornwall - we had the best time!
★★★★★
Relaxing break at The Valley
Quiet, comfortable and extremely relaxing. Stayed in one of the dog friendly cottages, which on arrival we found to be spotless. Not a sign of previous doggy visits. The resort was extremely safe, nice walks for the furry friends, swimming pool was a bonus. Would love to return.
★★★★★
See you again soon!!
We checked out this morning from our stay in a Croft cottage - we’ve already arranged our dates for next year!
The accommodation was so clean and welcoming, the nicest holiday house we’ve ever had. The beds were really comfortable, kitchen was well stocked with equipment and the welcome food hamper was filled with lovely local goodies. The daily leaflet through the door giving recommendations of local outings, the weather etc was a fantastic touch.
The children loved the pool and playground. The pool booking system actually worked really well. Next time we will try out the squash courts. Lots of toys/games available to borrow from reception which means next time we don’t have to pack so much!
An excellent base for a Cornish break but chilling in the lovely cottages is just as enjoyable. The staff were all very friendly and just wanted to say that all the extra touches did not go unnoticed. Halloween cookie decorating for the children and a Halloween hamper was delivered to our door, with pumpkins, carving tools, painting kits, sweets! The kids were so happy!
★★★★★
The most idyllic accommodation
The most wonderful location, accommodation and service. We had a wonderful week at The Valley. The food and amenities were amazing. Beautiful beaches and pubs were all in close distance. We are already looking to return. When we left we were given a lovely goodie bag for our journey home. We have stopped in 5-star accommodation all over the world and I would recommend The Valley to anyone.
★★★★★
Fabulous
At least our third visit. Fabulous place to stay. The cottages are like home from home, located in a beautiful spot with lots of places to visit within a short drive, everything you might need is there and the staff are excellent. We cannot recommend it enough.
★★★★★
Hidden gem
The Valley is ideally situated as a base for visiting Cornwall. It is in a peaceful and secluded location, just outside Truro, and offers spacious accommodation, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts etc.
★★★★★
First class accommodation
This was a return visit with my two dogs. The pet-friendly accommodation is exceptionally clean and well-maintained. There were delightful welcome gifts for me and my poochies. The staff are welcoming and friendly. The location is well-placed for exploring Cornwall. Highly recommended.
★★★★★
Highly recommend
It’s the 1st time we’ve visited Cornwall, but we’re already looking at re-booking for next year. Loved the format of the cottage, having plenty of space inside, and lovely outdoor areas too. Even though the weather was hot & sunny all week the cottage thankfully remained cool at all times. Staff on-site were friendly and helpful at both reception and restaurant/bar. It was really well positioned for our trips out to St Mawes, St Agnes and other places we went to. Highly recommend to anyone thinking of visiting.
★★★★★
Family fun week
We enjoyed our week in cottage number 42. It was very clean & comfortable. It was well-kitted out in the kitchen. We were made very welcome with a lovely welcome pack.
★★★★★
Peaceful and Perfect!
We booked up for a quick Cornish break and were pleasantly surprised at how lovely it was at The Valley. The accommodation was beautiful, clean, well-equipped and comfortable. Loved the layout as the kitchen was on a mezzanine with a balcony overlooking the pool and countryside beyond. Great place to stay if you’re bringing a dog as plenty of woodland walks around the site. Normally my dog takes a couple of days to settle into any holiday accommodation but she was settled almost immediately here. Dog basket, blankets, dog bowl etc all provided too. When you arrive you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere but it's actually a brilliant location as smack in the middle of Truro and Falmouth so not lots of travelling involved. A couple of miles down the road is a ferry which costs £10 return to take you to the Roseland area which has stunning beaches and villages. Lovely indoor and outdoor pool, games room, tennis courts etc. In the village of Carnon Downs is a large Spar shop which sells everything so no need to eat out all the time. Feels safe and secure as the resort is gated which is a bonus.
★★★★★
Family holiday
This was our second trip to the Valley. The location, accommodation and general facilities were perfect. We all enjoyed our 10-day stay including our dog and look forward to returning. Thank you to all of the team who were friendly and helpful.
★★★★★
Magical!
Holidays should all be about fun and spending time with the family. Yet, so often, it can be the same routine just in a different place. Not so at The Valley! We've stayed there several times (a couple of times in a Villa Gallery style and more often in a Haven one). You can cook in your own fabulous kitchen or stroll down to the wonderful restaurant (especially good to arrive early for young ones to eat and then let them place with the toy boxes the staff provide and have a grown up dinner a little later). It's wonderfully peaceful but so close to Truro and Falmouth. It really lives up to its 5 star rating. Can't wait to go back.
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