Location

Bracken Cottage is located 4 miles inland from the small fishing town of St Ives, nestled snugly beneath Trencrom Hill in the quiet hamlet of Lelant Downs. The nearest train station is St Erth, just 2 miles away.

The cottage is only a few miles from both Cornish coasts on the St Michael’s Way route and is the ideal base for relaxing country breaks and beach activity holidays. Above all, you will find Bracken Cottage the perfect retreat from which to explore the magic of West Cornwall.

The cottage

The upstairs of the cottage is light and airy, with one good-sized bedroom with a King-size luxurious memory mattress, and artisan fitted wardrobe and drawers. Also upstairs is a mezzanine floor with a single built in bed, which can be used as another sleeping space. The bathroom is the cottage original with Victorian bath, basin and toilet, all with brass fittings.

Downstairs is open plan, with a cosy living room on one side with a large inglenook fireplace and wood burner. The dining kitchen is light and spacious, with an induction hob and an integrated grill / convection / microwave oven. At the back of the house is a light and warm conservatory with another cabin bed that leads to a utility and wet room and another toilet. This overlooks the back private courtyard walled garden.

My cottage is normally lived in so it is fully equipped with fridge with freezer compartment, dishwasher and washing machine, TV, DVD and good WiFi. There is private parking for one vehicle in front of the house. There is no smoking allowed in the cottage and, due to the abundance of wildlife (pheasants, rabbits and a woodpecker) in the garden, I do not allow pets.

All linen and towels will be provided, but I would request that you bring your own beach towels.

* Unfortunately the cottage design makes it unsuitable for children. 

Things to see and do

Although it is tucked away, Bracken Cottage is only a few miles from both coasts and all the local amenities. There are 3 pubs and a farm shop within 2 miles and just a 15-20 min drive from either St Ives or Penzance. St Ives is a great place to eat, shop, wander round the art galleries or enjoy the beautiful harbour and beaches. Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden are both highly recommended. There are some fantastic local restaurants and pubs in the area – the fresh seafood and local cheeses are particularly worth sampling, and there is a thriving real ale and craft beer scene in Cornwall.

In the immediate area there is plenty to do. Bracken Cottage is situated right on the St Michael’s Way footpath, which runs from St Ives to Penzance and around the peninsula. There is a huge choice of beaches all within easy drive where you can windsurf, kite surf, surf, swim or just relax. You will also find bird watching on the estuary, fresh water fishing, horse riding and golf courses all within a couple of miles.

Our top tips for 2024 are: Newlyn Filmhouse; Lovetts Restaurant and 45 Queen Street.