House on the Strand
Portmellon, Mevagissey, Cornwall, UK
Introduction
Nearly a century ago, an architect's serendipitous wanderings led to the creation of this remarkable coastal retreat. Designed to witness moonrise and sunset simultaneously, the house holds its headland position with quiet confidence, and features (unnamed) in Daphne du Maurier's The House on the Strand, which is based on a nearby priory. Following a considered renovation that honoured Campbell's vision while replacing mid-century additions, this family home offers a rare combination of architectural intrigue and simple luxury. Like the moon phases it was built to observe, the house reveals itself gradually, each space orchestrated to capture light, land and water.
Inside
Outside
The grounds descend through tiered gardens where hydrangeas nod seaward, their colours shifting with maritime soil minerals. Winding paths through rewilded grassland lead to a secluded beach with a private boathouse for kayaking, rowing and stand-up paddleboarding. Gannets dive offshore while oystercatchers patrol the tideline. It's a place where childhood dreams of Famous Five escapades become reality, morning coffee might be interrupted by dolphins breaking the surface, and stargazing is accompanied by the dependable lull of waves. Nearby, the South West Coast Path and pretty villages of Mevagissey and Gorran Haven offer a snapshot of Cornwall's fishing communities.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests from £4,995 per week
- Alternative group optionUp to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThe property has four double bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom. Two rooms feature super king-size beds (one of which can be converted into twin singles); the other two have king-size beds. There´s also a ground-floor beach shower and separate WC.
View bedrooms - FeaturesPrivate slipway to a cove and coastal path to a sandy beach, garage games room
- PetsOne well-behaved dog is welcome
Pets are charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyChildren are very welcome
- PracticalitiesPrivate parking is available for four cars; there´s also an EV charger. The well-equipped kitchen includes an oven, induction hob, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, coffee machine and wine fridge. A laundry room houses a washing machine, tumble dryer and dog-washing station. Please note, the property has areas of restricted head height and internal level changes, with steps to the kitchen, living room and some bedrooms. The garden is not fully enclosed, requiring supervision of children and dogs. The boathouse and slipway are accessible via a narrow path with steep steps. The secluded sandy beach, though privately owned, remains open for public access on foot.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper, Wi-Fi internet, Smart TV, games including table tennis and table football in the garage, log burner with wood to get you started, outdoor kitchen with a double gas hob and 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 adrenaline-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
Mevagissey, Cornwall
Twin harbours anchor this medieval fishing port, where narrow streets lead to seafood restaurants and artisan shops. Walk the historic quays, discover hidden coves along coastal paths, or visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Getting there
- On the Map This luxury self-catering coastal home is located between the picturesque villages of Mevagissey and Gorran Haven.
- By Car From London, take the M4 towards Bath, the M5 South and the A30 to Cornwall and follow the directions provided to the property. The journey time is around five hours.
- By Train The nearest train station is St Austell, a 20-minute drive away.
- By Plane Newquay airport is a 45-minute drive away.
From the owner
“We immediately fell in love with this house overlooking the magnificent Cornish sea, where every room reveals architect John Campbell´s vision of simple beauty and thoughtful detail.”
We first encountered the house on a hot July day 10 years ago, surrounded by sparkling sea. The place held us spellbound. What followed were years of discovery and renovation, breathing new life into one of Cornwall's youngest listed sites.
Set on a rocky headland where an early chapel once stood, the house was built in 1932 by architect John Archibald Campbell without electricity or road access. Rock was cut and blasted on site, while materials were transported by donkey and cart from across Cornwall.
We fell in love with the house's unadorned nature, its limited palette of materials extending naturally along the point. Yet the modest exterior belies Campbell's sophistication. This accomplished architect chose to experiment, building affordably with traditional materials while teaching alongside his workmen. The result marries simplicity with thoughtful detail.
Our extended family, aged two to 72, continues to create wonderful memories here. While just being here is often enough, there's also plenty to explore in the surrounding area.
Charles, Cathy and family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Mevagissey, Cornwall with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Hotel Tresanton, St Mawes
A sophisticated coastal retreat with a sun-drenched terrace perfect for elegant al fresco dining. Combine your visit with castle exploration, sea swimming, or kayaking before catching the ferry to Falmouth.
To See
South West Coast Path
Meander westward along the dramatic clifftops to discover hidden beaches. Within an hour´s walk lies the film location for Richard Curtis´ romantic masterpiece, About Time, though many outdoor scenes were actually shot at the house.
To Do
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell
Explore this beautifully restored Victorian estate, where forgotten paths wind through mysterious woodland walks and dense jungle vegetation flourishes alongside Europe´s only productive Victorian pineapple pit.
To See
Mevagissey
A quintessential Cornish working port where fishermen still land their daily catch. Browse independent boutiques and savour fresh seafood while watching colourful boats bob gently in this historic harbour.
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
Stylish winter decorating ideas
Country Living
March 2025A house to book on the Welsh borders with just the right amount of rustic charm
House & Garden
February 2025The most romantic places to stay
The Times
February 2025Stay at this off-grid Hansel and Gretel cottage hiding in the woods
Country Living
February 2025Seven of the cosiest cottages for couples
The Times
February 2025How to get the best holiday at the best price in 2025
The Telegraph
January 2025Top 12 big kitchen trends for 2025
Country Living
January 2025Where the travel editors and experts are going in 2025
The Telegraph
January 2025
Collections > Electric Car Escapes > UK > Cornwall > Mevagissey > House on the Strand
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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.
