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There’s something about a Cornwall break that offers a wonderful sense of escapism not always found from other UK breaks. Perhaps it’s because it’s at the foot of the country, one way in and one way out on the A30. But what that means for us, lifelong fans of Cornwall, is the chance to feel like we’re getting away from it all without having to negotiate airports and aeroplanes. Especially with a 1-year-old and 3-year-old in tow.

Tucked into the south west corner of Cornwall is Falmouth. Recently named by the Sunday Times as one of the best places to live in the UK, it is a bustling and increasingly trendy Cornish town with a rich maritime history and busy working harbour. Its sandy beaches and quiet coves are family heaven for bucket-and-spade days, but together with a pretty town centre, museums, castles and boat trips, it also offers plenty for when the British weather lets us down. Especially when we last visited in chilly March.

THE HOTEL

Falmouth’s hotel scene is an improving one, although not yet offering the luxe options found on the north coast such as the fantastic Watergate Bay and The Scarlet hotels. There’s always been lots of choice in Falmouth, but solid 3-star options, favoured by coach trippers. St Michael’s Hotel, also found along the strip of Falmouth hotels that overlook the sea, is an exception and one of the best Falmouth has to offer. It’s an overtly nautically themed 4-star hotel that ensures its guests know they are in a location proud of its maritime history. The hotel has been extensively refurbished and feels fresh, light and welcoming. It’s also the ideal hotel choice for kids, offering a small range of family suites, including the Giant Family Suite with two bedrooms and a separate lounge area, particularly suited to us as our boys needed early nights and we could enjoy a glass of wine and Netflix in peace.

St Michael’s has a swimming pool that’s heated to a lovely temperature but no slides or water geysers to keep my energetic boys occupied for long. Still, it was the ideal activity for us post-breakfast, before getting wrapped up to hit Gyllynvase beach, just a hop skip and jump from the hotel. As it happens, the Cornish wind in March proved too much so it was a brief visit. Fortunately, Gylly Beach café was a warm and inviting option for hot chocolates where we sat outside under heaters and tucked cosily under blankets to enjoy the incredible view, sheltered from the easterly wind.