At Creekside Cottages 60 years of experience has helped to uncover some magical places to stay in one of the loveliest parts of Cornwall. The collection of waterside properties offers everything from luxurious architect designed modern homes for large parties to an intimate fisherman’s cottage for two. Or how about staying on a farm or overlooking a river? Perhaps somewhere that offers access to a private beach?
If you are staying at one of their properties, here are some hidden gems in this part of Cornwall to explore.
Trelissick
The best views of this 18th century Grade II* listed manor house near Feock are undoubtedly from the river. If you’re on the other side of the River Fal, access is via the King Harry Ferry.
The National Trust house is on its own peninsula which offers panoramic views down the Carrick Roads towards Falmouth. The property offers lots of fascinating things including a forgotten room, completely sealed off from the rest of the house and only accessible through the floorboards of an under stairs cupboard.
The grounds are worth exploring too – 300 acres of parkland and secluded oak woodlands away from the more formal gardens. And there’s a rather lovely art gallery too.
Kennall Vale
An atmospheric 20-acre nature reserve managed by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, where wildlife thrives amongst the trees and the fast-flowing river. There’s a circular walking route that meanders past ivy-covered walls before dropping down to the water.
But Kennall Vale has a secret past. In its early 19th century heyday, the fast-flowing river drove water wheels which powered the buildings where they made gunpowder for Cornwall’s mines and quarries. Production ended in 1910 and the buildings and equipment fell into ruin, providing a ghostly atmosphere in fading light. It is now designated a Cornish Mining World Heritage area.
The Ferry Boat Inn
Daphne du Maurier found inspiration for her romantic novel, Frenchman’s Creek, from the tributary with that name which runs down to the Helford River. This area certainly oozes romance and atmosphere.
On the opposite side of the water at North Helford Passage you will find the 300-year-old Ferry Boat Inn, surrounded by woodland and countryside and looking directly out on to the water. From the Ferry Boat Inn you can walk along the South West Coast Path to the grey sand and shingle Durgan Beach, less than a mile away.
Mylor
The pretty little village of Mylor Bridge, with its thriving community, is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and home to 14 properties managed by Creekside Cottages.
There has been a place of worship here since the 5th century with the Normans building a stone church on the site in typical style in the 12th century. There are 15th century additions including stone pillars and arches. In the graveyard, you will find a 17ft Celtic cross and many headstones marking the resting place of those connected to the sea - including Falmouth Packet captains and dozens of men and boys from the training ship HMS Ganges, which was moored nearby in the late 19th century. Take a leisurely walk from the village down to pretty Restronguet Creek – which is home to Beach Cottage and 9 other properties within the Restronguet area.
Take a look at Creekside Cottages property portfolio here.