The Water Mill

The Water Mill: Cornwall

Get away from it all at this 13th-century mill home, sitting pretty in a wooded river valley and just a five-minute drive or twenty-minute walk from Cornwall's mighty southwest coast path and the River Fowey.

Inside, there's nothing run-of-the-mill about this carefully and elegantly reimagined period abode. Once you're done gawping over the magnificence of the mill's inner working (make sure to ask your host about the fascinating history), you'll love the flairs of unexpected modernity of the home's interiors. Vibrant textiles and contemporary artwork bring a dash of colour, while period features and antique furniture ooze character and charm.

Sunny mornings call for alfresco breakfasts beneath the dapple of the apple tree in the private enclosed garden before an amble through the seven acres of water meadows and magical woodlands beyond. At night, rustle up a meal beneath the dramatic gabled ceilings of the sociable kitchen where cooking is a joy. Then hunker down beside the wood stove – the bookcases stuffed with classics and board games will be all the entertainment you need.

When it's time to discover the beauty of the Cornish Riveria, you've picked just the right spot. Perched between the picturesque fishing villages of Polruan and Bodinnick, ​you're just a leafy twenty-minute stroll to the South West Coast Path and the Fowey River. Or, if you're keen to get within sight of the sea straight away, you can leave your car at the nearby National Trust car parks (a five-minute drive) and dive right in.

Home truths:
*There is a private gated driveway with parking for two cars
*You’ll have your own private entrance at this home
*The closest train station is at Liskeard (a 25-minute drive away)
*There is a separate study with a desk for those wishing to work remotely
*There are steep stone steps all around the house and grounds which may be unsuitable for guests with limited mobility
*Guests travelling with children should be mindful that there is unfenced flowing and standing water in close proximity to the house
*There is space for one travel cot in the master bedroom – please bring your own cot and highchair should you require them
*Beach towels and picnic blankets are provided