Gwendolyn
Perranporth, Cornwall, UK
Set above the sand dunes of Perranporth Beach, Gwendolyn is the epitome of laid-back coastal living. With an understated design edge, this luxury coastal cottage is a haven for those seeking a family-friendly escape to Cornwall's north coast. A tranquil setting — combining sea views, a hot tub, and calm interiors — Gwendolyn is the ideal property for those looking for a beach house less ordinary: think low ceilings, high spirits, and a snug storybook feel.
Introduction
In quintessential thatched cottage style, Gwendolyn perfectly fuses traditional North Cornwall charm with beach-side living. With a pared-back and muted palette, it's all about the views here; from the garden vistas to the endless skies above Perranporth Beach. Designed for sharing, Gwendolyn is both a family and dog-friendly abode, but if it's a romantic seaside retreat you crave, then this luxury coastal cottage is perfect for couples looking to reconnect. From lazy summer mornings to languid winter evenings, Gwendolyn will inspire you to kick back, relax, and settle into a more "Cornish" pace of life.
Inside
From breakfasting in the contemporary farmhouse kitchen, to reclining fireside and dining in the 'potting shed' garden room, you'll be assured an atmospheric stay at Gwendolyn. Beamed ceilings rise from hobbity-low in places (vertically gifted, mind your heads) to lofty in others, adding country charm throughout. In the bedrooms, soft hues and crumpled linens set the scene for a restful slumber; all that'll be left to decide is who gets first dibs on the main bedroom on the first floor, complete with its striking four-poster bed. A ladder leads to the loft snug in the eaves of the house, the perfect spot for children to retreat to read and play.
Outside
From the wildlife-filled garden to the bubbling walled hot tub, Gwendolyn's enclosed and private setting is a real lure for guests of all ages. An al fresco dining table with a view, summer's eves at this North Cornwall cottage-en-luxe will mostly be spent with over-flame creations accompanying sunset vistas. Combining the best of coast and country, from horse riding to surf lessons, Gwendolyn is the perfect base for whatever adventure you crave. Alternatively, if it's simply an escape from the everyday that you desire, then hunker down and make the most of the tranquillity that this elegant self-catering home affords.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 6 guests
From £2,495 per week, £1,895 per short break
Day hire options are available - Alternative group optionsUp to 2 or up to 4 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsOn the first floor you´ll find two double bedrooms; one with super king-size bed and en suite shower room the other has a king-size bed. The final bedroom is a zip-and-link which can be made into a king-size bed or twin. The family bathroom with large bath and handheld shower is also located on the first floor, while the ground floor features a separate shower room.
View bedrooms - FeaturesHot tub, al fresco BBQ area
- 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; one travel cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesAccess to Gwendolyn is via narrow and bumpy country lanes, ample private parking is available in the cottage car park. The kitchen is equipped with range oven, American fridge-freezer, washing machines and tumble dryers. Due to the historic nature of the cottage, guests should be aware that all downstairs ceilings and doorways are low (less than 6ft). It is advised that children under eight should refrain from using the loft snug, as access is via a wooden ladder and not suitable for young children.
- Homestay includesTV with DVD player, Netflix, Sonos multi-room sound system, iPad, WiFi internet, hammam towels for the hot tub, local produce, wine, charcoal barbecue, linen, 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 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.
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point available
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor plan
Weddings
With a thatched roof that feigns to keep a lid on the joy within and wise ivory chimneys that preside over garden love scenes, this is perhaps the most poetic luxury elopement wedding venue in all of Cornwall.
Prices & Availability
Perranporth
With its expanse of sandy beach, a natural pool carved into a rock and surf breaks that suit novices and more experienced surfers alike, Perranporth on the north Cornwall coast is a haven for beach lovers.
Getting there
- On the Map Gwendolyn is located down a short public byway lane just a 30 minute walk from Perranporth beach.
- By Car From London, take the M4 toward Bath, take M5 South and A30 to Cornwall and follow the directions provided to the property.
- By Train The nearest train station is in Newquay, less than a 15 minute drive away. There are more frequent services from London to Truro which is approximately a 20 minute drive away.
- By Air Newquay airport is a 25 minute drive away or Exeter airport can be reached in an hour and 30 minutes.
From the owner
“With endless coastal views and unassuming charm, Gwendolyn exudes a timeless appeal. As beautiful a property for a family escape as it is a haven for two, it´s the tranquillity we love.”
Such a characterful home; from its thatched roof to its incredible position overlooking Perranporth Beach, Gwendolyn is a home with a real personality!
The setting is the perfect fusion of coast and country, and our aim was to create an abode that celebrated the setting. All the design choices were made with relaxation in mind, from the tonal hues to the cosy blankets and interesting books that line the shelves.
Perched high above the beach, the setting of the cottage is simply magical. I love that we can walk to Perranporth Beach within 30 minutes and that there are a wealth of lovely restaurants to be enjoyed too.
It's such a great house for a larger group, with many shared living spaces for us to enjoy, then the communal areas are perfect for gathering to share our daily adventures. The deck is the perfect place for an alfresco supper; the sunsets from here are nothing short of extraordinary.
When it's just the two of us staying, we rarely leave the house, simply making the most of the house and gardens.
The Stanleys
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Perranporth with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Rojanos, Padstow
Paul Ainsworth´s Rojano´s in the Square serves rustic Italian and Mediterranean influenced dishes in the heart of Padstow. Open 7 days a week, from 10am to late, whether you are looking for lunch, dinner or something in between.
To Do
Reen Manor Riding Stables
Reen Manor Riding Stables are based just next door just to Gwendolyn. They have over 20 horses at the stables which vary in size, from quality horses and ponies to cobs, with a range that will suit both beginners and advanced riders.
To Do
Camel Trail
Take in the beautiful views on the Camel Trail, a cycle path that runs between Wadebridge and Padstow. Perfect for a leisurely bike ride on the level, you can enjoy peaceful views across the estuary as you zip happily along.
To Do
Cornish Wine Tours
Cornish Wine Tours offer unique trips to visit the best vineyards in Cornwall. From Camel Valley to Trevibban Mill, and from Knightor Winery to Bosue Vineyard, tours run Tuesday to Saturday with half and full day options.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
We had a wonderful stay at Gwendolyn, it was so comfortable and just the perfect place to relax. The view to the sea was a lovely thing to wake up to each morning! The house keeper was very helpful and accommodating, the facilities were all in good order, and the flowers and hamper was a very nice gesture.
We have enjoyed a fabulous week here in this beautiful cottage. Such a comfortable relaxing place to stay and in the perfect location to enjoy the best of Cornwall. We would love to return one day.
What a tranquil and magical cottage overlooking the sea. We enjoyed bracing beach walks, cosy naps by the fire, and evenings in the hot tub. Such a glorious way to enjoy midwinter. Thank you for sharing such a special place with us, we immediately felt at home here at Gwendolyn. The resident ducks are so very cute!
We´ve had a wonderful stay here in Cornwall. The home is a perfect abode to return to each day after exploring the shores and cliffs. Visiting Kynance Cove and St Ives is a must! Some wonderful lookouts here to enjoy watching the sun go down.
Our stay was exactly what we had hoped for and more; the perfect way to start 2022! The highlights were many, but exploring beautiful Holywell Bay and the local shops were especially fun. Thank you and we hope to be back again soon.
We came to Gwendolyn after booking months ago, fearing another Christmas of not seeing one another. We are a separated family at the best of times, but being here was a home-from-home. A husband back from overseas, two teenagers and two dogs and equated to a happy family of six. The fact that dogs are so welcome means everything! A wonderful part of the world, a wonderful stay and a beautiful house. Thank you so much.
What an amazing place. We could not have had a better time, despite the wild and wintry weather. Everything in this beautiful house is perfect and we can´t wait to come back.
A wonderful, cosy place to stay with friends enjoying food, drinks and those amazing views. Sitting next to the warm fire watching a movie while the rain fell outside was a real treat. We hired a private chef for a birthday celebration one evening which was lovely and the dishes were made with amazing, locally sourced food. We will definitely be back!
Gwendolyn is such a beautiful place to escape to and the hot tub was a big hit! Really fabulous views enjoyed with a morning coffee and lovely local towns which you must visit. Thank you for welcoming us into your gorgeous home.
A wonderful stay! A little sun, a little rain, a little wind, perfect autumn weather! The hot tub in the cool air and light rain was truly incredible. We recommend driving to St Ives which is a fabulous, beautiful Cornish town. Also to St Agnes, as there’s a lovely 18th century pub right on the waterfront, highly recommended!
We have had a wonderful holiday and were blessed with fabulous weather. This is a part of Cornwall we haven’t visited previously, but we would certainly do so again. The cottage is beautiful and very comfortable, we highly recommend Gwendolyn!
We had a wonderful time in your beautiful home, and we loved the pond and the views. We enjoyed a lovely birthday lunch at The Summer House, which had really good food and wine. We also had a great time surfing, and having the dogs on the beach all day at Holywell Bay with the leads off - which is rare in August! Thank you.
We have had an absolutely lovely holiday at Gwendolyn. The place is stunning, the weather hot and sunny and we have come back to London a lot more relaxed than when we left. We also met the housekeepers who are incredibly helpful and were delighted when we complimented them. The house looked truly lovely on our arrival! Thank you.
We absolutely loved Gwendolyn and were really blown away by the space. Everything has been thought of, so we had everything we needed. The property is absolutely stunning and is one of my favourite places I’ve ever stayed at. Thank you for providing such beautiful homes, we will all be highly recommending this one and we will definitely be back!
What a lovely home! I can´t believe we got to enjoy our holiday here. So many memories with my family that I shall treasure forever! My favourite memories will be sat on the pergola with my morning coffee in the sunshine, sitting in the snug room reading my book with the sea in the distance through the windows and playing games and spending time with the family in the garden room most evenings. Such joy, happiness and memorable times! I am booking again as soon as I am home! Thank you so much!
We have had the most fantastic stay in this incredible property. Such a find! We really have got perfect memories of our birthday celebrations. I have even purchased the same mattress and bed linen. What more can I say!
We were looking for something cosy yet coastal to celebrate our Christmas and New Year. We absolutely loved our stay at Gwendolyn, everything was amazing. We would highly recommend!
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Gwendolyn 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
Where Each of the G7 Leaders Should Stay Around Carbis Bay
The Telegraph
March 2021Snow white
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2024The UK´s cosiest boltholes for Christmas
The Times
December 2024Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 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 2024
Collections > Surf Retreats > UK > Cornwall > Perranporth > Gwendolyn
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.
