Wildwood Holt
St Martin, Helford, Cornwall, UK
Enveloped in birdsong and cradled by scrambling blooms, Wildwood Holt sits at the heart of a deep Cornish valley near the Helford River on the Lizard Peninsula. With its own babbling brook, enchanting secret gardens and interiors designed to let the wilderness flow throughout, this rustic-luxe self-catering retreat is a true escape to nature, where getting lost in the woods has never been so appealing.
Introduction
Set amidst an impressive private estate near Cornwall's illustrious Helford River, this luxury self-catering cottage was designed to celebrate the romantic woodland setting in which it hides. Peeking out from the propped-up-by-trees porch covered in clambering vines, the powder blue front door is a welcome sight for weary travellers, presenting an escape so far from city dwelling that one could almost forget such things exist. Accessed via a footbridge over a crystal clear babbling brook and with fragrant rose bushes, delicate cosmos and climbing clematises at every turn, here is a home where all of the senses can be satiated. Pretty, charming and all-encompassing, there’s idyllic, and then there’s Wildwood Holt.
Inside
Exposed wooden beams foraged from the neighbouring woodland crisscross every bedroom, stairway and nook, while crooked branches hanging from thick garden twine dry bunches of wild flowers and sweet-scented herbs. Much of the furniture inside the cottage, including the kitchen bench and children’s cabin bed, has been handmade by the owners and their family, ensuring love and care has gone into every inch of this bucolic abode, while a cleansing palette of soft whites, muted florals and sun-bleached wood channels the atmosphere of elaborate garden rooms, where all attention is focused on the swaying greenery outside the hand-carved oak windows.
Outside
Oriental magnolia, vibrant azaleas and twisting rhododendra flow through Wildwood Holt’s potager garden which, even on the freshest of spring mornings, invites al fresco coffees and games of Pooh sticks over the footbridge. A rustic pergola, smothered in creeping ivy and topped with glowing festoon lights, encourages long summer suppers which linger well into the night and the lush lawn calls for afternoon siestas atop blankets, South-Cornwall style. Tempting as it is to stay within this stolen slice of Eden, the azure waters of the Helford River and golden sands of Kynance Cove await sandy adventures, Kingfisher spotting and rope swinging galore.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests
From £3,450 per week, £2,250 per short break - Alternative group optionsUp to 4 or up to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are three double bedrooms on the first floor of Wildwood Holt (one with an en suite shower room) along with one twin bedroom perfect for children, featuring one sleigh bed and one cabin bed. The family bathroom includes a freestanding rolltop bath and walk-in shower and there is a separate WC on the ground floor.
View bedrooms - PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: FridayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. A cot and highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking at Wildwood Holt for three cars at the end of a country lane (unsuitable for low-slung cars) by the footbridge. The kitchen includes an electric Aga, electric oven and hob, toaster, microwave, coffee grinder, dishwasher and an American style fridge-freezer. There is a separate utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer. Due to the open woodland, the stream running through the garden and steep drops, parents are advised to supervise children at all times. Owing to the charming nature, age and location of the property, although perfectly safe, due care is to be taken in the house and grounds.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local produce, Smart TV with Netflix, Bluetooth speakers, record player and vinyl, WiFi internet, coal barbecue, recipe books, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringDiscover your options for private dining and fully catered breaks.
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Helford
Down towards Cornwall´s Lizard Peninsula, Helford´s hidden creeks, harbour sunsets and country homes will charm guests seeking a peaceful retreat, with the river, valley and woods forming a naturally beautiful backdrop.
Getting there
- On the Map The cottage is situated near Helston, within close proximity to the Helford River.
- By Car Wildwood Holt is sat in Cornwall's remote Lizard Peninsula, just under six hours' drive from central London;
- By Train The closest train station is Falmouth which is a 40 minute taxi ride from the cottage (please note that advanced booking is essential).
- By Air The closest airport is Newquay, a 90 minute drive away.
From the owner
“This is the perfect place to relax and unwind from the stresses of modern-day living. Only a short drive away are surfing beaches, quaint Cornish fishing villages, the incomparable Helford river and the countless treasures to be discovered on the Lizard Peninsula.”
Built in 1800 for the then Governess of the Trelowarren Estate, Wildwood Holt is situated at the end of a long, winding lane in a deep valley near the Helford River. When we first bought the house over 30 years ago it had none of the modern facilities you would expect in the late 1980s, and the previous owners used to get their water from a well up the road!
We spent our first six months here cutting and burning the laurel which had covered the garden before discovering what lay beneath. We then planted it with all the beautiful flowers you see today, making it a real secret garden hidden within the woods.
Wildwood Holt is our much-loved family home. We have raised our children here and gone through all the ups and downs of life with this as our base. It is a real home in a fairy-tale setting, amidst enchanting woodlands with a magical stream running by. The jumping fish and darting dragonflies are your neighbours. Birdsong provides the background music and by the evening, as the moonlight glows through the trees, the babbling stream sings your lullaby.
Jane and Anthony
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Helford with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Kynance Cove
Golden sands and turquoise waters make Kynance Cove close to Lizard Point one of the UK´s most beautiful and infamous beaches. Wander the coast path, dip in the sea and grab a slice of cake from the notorious café.
To See
Frenchman´s Creek
Touted as one of the most romantic spots in Cornwall, this pretty creek on the Helford River was the inspiration behind Daphne du Maurier´s novel of the same name (and makes the perfect picnic spot!).
To Eat
Roskilly´s Farm
Wander the farm which famously produces one of Cornwall´s favourite ice creams. Watch the Jersey cows being milked, browse the pottery and gallery and amble around the ponds with a double cone in hand!
To Do
The Poldark Trail
Follow in the footsteps of 18th century Cornish tin miners on an atmospheric tour of Poldark Mine in the Wendron Valley, now a World Heritage Site.
Guest Testimonials
We had a wonderful stay at Wildwood Holt. The property was beautiful and well equipped. The owners are the most perfect hosts, thank you for providing us with a much needed break!
Unique extras
Enhance your stay with a unique experience from one of our preferred suppliers. From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Wildwood Holt 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
Hidden haven
Country Homes & Interiors
July 2022Best cabin stays in the UK
The Times
May 2023Staycation in splendid isolation
Country Living
May 2023Britain´s best holiday cottages
The Telegraph
May 2023Best holiday homes in the UK
Conde Nast Traveller
May 2023A look inside The Fable x The White Company
House Beautiful
May 2023Britain´s best offbeat escapes
Country Living
May 2023Follying up the folly
Country Living
May 2023
Britain in Wonderland > Cabins in the wild > UK > Cornwall > Helford > Wildwood Holt
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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.
