Wildwood Holt
St Martin, Helford, Cornwall, UK
Wildwood Holt sits at the heart of a deep Cornish valley near the Helford River on the Lizard Peninsula. Enveloped in birdsong with its own babbling brook, enchanting secret gardens and a carefully curated interior scheme, this wilderness escape ensures a truly restorative stay. From Swallows and Amazons woodland exploration to days spent sand between toes and eves sea shanty singing, you're assured an authentic Cornish retreat at Wildwood.
Introduction
Set amidst an impressive private estate near Cornwall's illustrious Helford River, this luxury self-catering cottage was designed to celebrate the romantic woodland setting in which it hides. Peeking out from the propped-up-by-trees porch covered in clambering vines, there's no escaping holiday mode at Wildwood Holt. Accessed via a footbridge over a babbling brook, with fragrant rose bushes, delicate cosmos and climbing clematises at every turn, here is a home where all of the senses can be satiated. Pretty, charming and all-encompassing, there's idyllic, and then there's Wildwood Holt.
Inside
Exposed wooden beams foraged from the neighbouring woodland crisscross every bedroom, stairway and nook, while crooked branches hanging from thick garden twine dry bunches of wild flowers and sweet-scented herbs. Much of the furniture inside the cottage, including the kitchen bench and children's cabin bed, has been handmade by the owners and their family, and this crafted with love essence ensures a soulful retreat for those who stay. Soft whites, muted florals and sun-bleached wood channels the atmosphere of elaborate garden rooms, where all attention is focused on the swaying greenery outside the hand-carved oak windows.
Outside
Oriental magnolia, vibrant azaleas and twisting rhododendra flow through Wildwood Holt's potager garden which, even on the freshest of spring mornings, invites al fresco coffees and games of Pooh sticks over the footbridge. A rustic pergola, smothered in creeping ivy and topped with glowing festoon lights, encourages long summer suppers which linger well into the night and the lush lawn calls for afternoon siestas atop blankets, South-Cornwall style. Tempting as it is to stay within this stolen slice of Eden, the azure waters of the Helford River and golden sands of Kynance Cove await sandy adventures, Kingfisher spotting and rope swinging galore.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests
From £3,250 per week, £2,450 per short break - Alternative group optionsUp to 4 or up to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are three double bedrooms on the first floor of Wildwood Holt (one with an en suite shower room) along with one twin bedroom perfect for children, featuring one sleigh bed and one cabin bed. The family bathroom includes a freestanding rolltop bath and walk-in shower and there is a separate WC on the ground floor.
View bedrooms - PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. A cot and highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking at Wildwood Holt for three cars at the end of a country lane by the footbridge. The kitchen includes an electric Aga, electric oven and hob, toaster, microwave, coffee grinder, dishwasher and an American style fridge-freezer. There is a separate utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer. Parents are advised to supervise children in the surrounding woodland and around the stream.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local produce, Smart TV with Netflix, Bluetooth speakers, WiFi internet, coal barbecue, recipe books, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenalin-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Helford
Down towards Cornwall´s Lizard Peninsula, Helford´s hidden creeks, harbour sunsets and country homes will charm guests seeking a peaceful retreat, with the river, valley and woods forming a naturally beautiful backdrop.
Getting there
- On the Map The cottage is situated near Helston, within close proximity to the Helford River.
- By Car Wildwood Holt is sat in Cornwall's remote Lizard Peninsula, just under six hours' drive from central London.
- By Train The closest train station is Falmouth which is a 40 minute taxi ride from the cottage (please note that advanced booking is essential).
- By Air The closest airport is Newquay, a 90 minute drive away.
From the owner
“This is the perfect place to relax and unwind from the stresses of modern-day living. Only a short drive away are surfing beaches, quaint Cornish fishing villages, the incomparable Helford river and the countless treasures to be discovered on the Lizard Peninsula.”
Built in 1800 for the then Governess of the Trelowarren Estate, Wildwood Holt is situated at the end of a long, winding lane in a deep valley near the Helford River. When we first bought the house over 30 years ago it had none of the modern facilities you would expect in the late 1980s, and the previous owners used to get their water from a well up the road!
We spent our first six months here cutting and burning the laurel which had covered the garden before discovering what lay beneath. We then planted it with all the beautiful flowers you see today, making it a real secret garden hidden within the woods.
Wildwood Holt is our much-loved family home. We have raised our children here and gone through all the ups and downs of life with this as our base. It is a real home in a fairy-tale setting, amidst enchanting woodlands with a magical stream running by. The jumping fish and darting dragonflies are your neighbours. Birdsong provides the background music and by the evening, as the moonlight glows through the trees, the babbling stream sings your lullaby.
Jane and Anthony
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Helford with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Kynance Cove
Golden sands and turquoise waters make Kynance Cove close to Lizard Point one of the UK´s most beautiful and infamous beaches. Wander the coast path, dip in the sea and grab a slice of cake from the notorious café.
To See
Frenchman´s Creek
Touted as one of the most romantic spots in Cornwall, this pretty creek on the Helford River was the inspiration behind Daphne du Maurier´s novel of the same name (and makes the perfect picnic spot!).
To Eat
Roskilly´s Farm
Wander the farm which famously produces one of Cornwall´s favourite ice creams. Watch the Jersey cows being milked, browse the pottery and gallery and amble around the ponds with a double cone in hand!
To Do
The Poldark Trail
Follow in the footsteps of 18th century Cornish tin miners on an atmospheric tour of Poldark Mine in the Wendron Valley, now a World Heritage Site.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
After a long drive from Norfolk, we found Wildwood by following your excellent directions. We went to Michael´s Mount, Land´s End, and also to St Ives. Lots of visits, then home again. Thanks!
We enjoyed the beautiful location with easy access to the coast. Our dogs took several of your recommended walks and especially enjoyed the walk to Tremayne Quay. Thank you for all of your lovely local recommendations.
A beautiful home with a restful atmosphere! Welcoming and tasteful furnishings and a well-appointed kitchen. Thanks so much for letting us stay in your charming home, we´ve thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
We had a wonderful stay at Wildwood Holt. The property was beautiful and well equipped. The owners are the most perfect hosts, thank you for providing us with a much needed break!
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Wildwood Holt and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Hidden haven
Country Homes & Interiors
July 202225 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024
Collections > Family-Friendly Self-Catering > UK > Cornwall > Helford > Wildwood Holt
Related Collections
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
