Thalia
St Tudy, Wadebridge, Cornwall, UK
In the River Camel valley, on the site of a 17th-century smallholding, a structure rises that defies easy categorisation. Part eco-warrior, part luxurious retreat, this modern barn conversion near the north Cornwall coast was designed to be at one with the environment. A family sanctuary where Passivhaus principles meet bespoke craftsmanship in a harmonious blend of natural timber, locally sourced slate, and weathered copper.
Introduction
A blue-copper door marks the entrance, its surface evolving with north Cornwall's mercurial weather. Inside, Thalia subverts convention, with living spaces upstairs transforming windows into dynamic viewpoints, and bedrooms below, naturally insulated by the earth. This eco-friendly home embodies sustainability without compromising comfort. A testament to the owners' commitment to environmental stewardship, it generates its own electricity and utilises an air-source heat pump. Designed to lure a close-knit family back to their Cornish roots, Thalia’s secret spot between Polzeath and Bodmin Moor makes it a natural base for both on-the-water and on-foot adventures.
Inside
Interiors balance contemporary design and rural comfort. A curved, slatted wood partition serves as sculpture and divider, softening Thalia’s clean lines. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views over the countryside, while artwork curated by a Christie's alumnus adds character to clean walls. In the kitchen, a stone island anchors family gatherings beneath arching wooden beams. Fermoie fabrics and local artefacts create a Scandi-rustic feel, extending to bedrooms where Hypnos mattresses swathed in White Company linens promise restful nights. The bathroom continues understated luxury with pearlescent-pink tiles, brass fittings, and a minimalist egg-shaped bath.
Outside
The garden, born from the imagination of Chelsea Flower Show gold medallist Darren Hawkes, blurs the line between cultivated and wild. Native flowers dance with sculptural grasses, creating a landscape that feels at once designed and delightfully untamed. As twilight descends, a fire pit becomes the heart of the outdoor space, inviting stargazing gatherings under vast skies. Port Isaac, with its pretty harbour and independent restaurants, lies just a 20-minute drive away. Fowey, where hidden coves inspired Daphne du Maurier's writing, can be reached in half an hour. Closer still, the timeless village of St Tudy less than a mile away has a community-run shop and charming inn.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests
From £1,950 per week, £1,450 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 4 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThe house offers four large double bedrooms, two with super king-size beds and two with versatile zip-and-link beds. There are three bathrooms: one family bathroom and two en suite shower rooms.
View bedrooms - PetsOne well-behaved dog is welcome and an additional two by prior agreement
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyChildren are very welcome.
- PracticalitiesParking is available for three large cars or four small cars, as well as an EV charger. A well-equipped kitchen features two dishwashers, a fridge-freezer, two ovens, an induction hob and larder cupboard. A separate laundry room houses a washing machine and tumble dryer.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper, Wi-Fi, Smart TV, Sonos speaker and sound bar, underfloor heating, fire wood to get you started, charcoal barbecue.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.
- Eco-friendlyAir source heating and cooling, solar panels.
- RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
St Tudy
A down-to-earth Cornish village on the western edge of Bodmin Moor, myth and legend are rife in this romantic fold of North Cornwall, which is peppered with granite boulders, gentle streams, misty tors, and wild ponies roaming freely.
Getting there
- On the Map This eco-friendly home is located in the Cornish village of St Tudy, on the western fringe of Bodmin Moor and 20 minutes inland from Port Isaac.
- By Car From London, take the M4 towards Bath, the M5 South and A30 to Cornwall, following the directions provided to the property. From London, the property is roughly four hours and 15 minutes by car; one hour and 20 minutes from Exeter.
- By Train The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway, which is around 20 minutes from the property by taxi.
- By Air Newquay airport is around a 30-minute drive away, while Exeter airport is just over an hour from the property. Both have car hire available in advance.
From the owner
“Our Cornish eco-home is a testament to sustainable living and local craftsmanship. We hope you´ll find it as inspiring and rejuvenating as the beautiful landscape that surrounds it.”
Built in 2024 and designed by award-winning local architects ARCO2, our home adheres closely to Passivhaus principles and runs on its own generated electricity. Situated about a mile from the charming village of St Tudy in the small hamlet of Tamsquite, the house is surrounded by fields offering spectacular views.
The property has an interesting history; a barn once stood here, poorly converted into a farmhouse in the 1970s. Two farmers acquired it and kept various animals over the years. As they aged, the house fell into disrepair. While we planned to renovate, our architect persuaded us to build anew, creating a home for the future.
We've sourced materials locally, including stone, slate, copper, and timber. The tradesmen are all local, making this truly a house 'made in Cornwall'. To maximise the rural views, we've designed the living areas upstairs, with bedrooms on the ground floor. Every aspect has been carefully considered to create a warm and calming environment.
Our location offers easy access to some of Cornwall's finest areas, including both the north and south coasts, as well as the magnificent Bodmin Moor.
Gordon and Susan
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in St Tudy with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Nathan Outlaw´s Fish Kitchen, Port Isaac
A small restaurant at the bottom of Port Isaac´s iconic steep hill overlooking the harbour, Nathan Outlaw’s talented team serve up locally caught fish and creative dishes in a 15th-century fisherman´s cottage.
To Do
Camel Valley Vineyard
An award-winning winery established in 1989, the Camel Valley Vineyard is known for producing world-class wines, especially sparkling varieties, in a beautiful countryside setting. Tours and tastings are available.
To Eat
St Kew Farm Shop and Café
A hip farm shop and café offering delicious food for brunch and lunch, the young traders at St Kew sell local produce, homeware, plants, and clothes too. Watch out for informal themed suppers and live music on Fridays.
To Do
The Eden Project, Par
Explore massive covered Biomes to trek through one of the world´s largest indoor rainforests and immerse yourself in the calm fragrance of the Mediterranean Biome. Enjoy extensive Outdoor Gardens, contemporary artworks, performance and storytelling.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which 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
25 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 2024Highland fling
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024
Collections > Eco-Friendly Escapes > UK > Cornwall > Wadebridge > Thalia
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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.
