The tiny island you won’t have heard of is by the UK’s best beach – and only six people can stay at a time
THE UK isn’t short of beautiful islands you can visit – but there is one you probably haven’t heard of.
Towan Island, in Newquay, is found on the also named Towan Beach.
The jutting island towers over the coastline, and looks like something from a James Bond movie.
The island is said to be the smallest inhabited island in the UK, with only six people able to visit at a time.
When the tide is in, the rockface is completely cut off from the beach.
And on the huge 70ft-tall rock is a holiday rental called The Island.
Built in 1901, it was originally lived in by Alexander Lodge, an inventor who created the spark plug.
Not only that, but it was said to have welcomed famous guests such as Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Now a holiday a home, the only way to access it is by a private suspended footbridge.
The three-bedroom house sleeps six people, with wrap-around sea views.
Along with a huge kitchen and conservatory, there is even a pre-stocked bar room with a billiards table.
And if some guests fancy going down to the beach, there is a pirate flag that can be hoisted to “call in others from the beach”.
Also outdoors is a garden with BBQ area and outdoor shower.
It is currently closed due to renovation works, although limited bookings are still available for 2025.
Prices start from £1,350 for three nights, working out to £75 each per night.
The website says: “Imagine being able to live on your own private island with panoramic views of the ocean.
“This nautical bolthole is perched above Towan Beach in Newquay, on the beautiful and dramatic north coast of Cornwall.”
Town Beach was even named the best in the UK by the Times’ Best 50 beaches earlier this year.
Previous tourists have raved about it too, with one saying on Tripadvisor: ” I can only describe it as a piece of paradise. You could be anywhere in the world.”
Sheltered by Newquay harbour, it is a great spot for kids to swim in with fewer waves and winds.
Five islands off the coast of the UK where you don't need a passport to visit
Sark, Channel Islands
A 50-minute ferry from Guernsey, Sark is often known as the “jewel of the Channel Islands”.
The Isle of Erraid, Scotland
The Isle of Erraid is a tidal island, just off the tip of the Ross of Mull.
Brownsea island, Dorset
The largest island off the coast of Dorset, Brownsea Island was thought to have inspired author Enid Blyton.
Anglesey, Wales
All of Anglesey has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Unst, Scotland
Unst is thought to be the UK’s most northerly inhabited place with 600 locals.
It is also dog-friendly all year round, unlike others where they are banned during the summer months.
Here’s another UK island which you can only visit by kayak.