The Artist’s Retreat
Michaelstow, Wadebridge, Cornwall, UK
Between the moors and sea in mystical North Cornwall, where folklore and truth twist to forge history, a bohemian home festooned in wisteria lies. Inside awaits roaring fires and whimsical taxidermy, ceiling-high piles of novels and a warmth that only exudes from a house filled with love and playful family memories. A rural self-catering manor that comfortably dances with the rhythms of life; welcome to The Artist's Retreat.
Introduction
Filled with colour and an abundance of home comforts, The Artist's Retreat is an inspiring self-catering escape for those looking to hide from the rest of the world. In one direction, the craggy coastline between Port Isaac and Tintagel conjures images of bootlegging pirates and siren songs, while in the other, Bodmin’s bewitching tors tempt moorland rambles and pub lunches by the fire. Back home, this unique manor exudes a dignified, free-spirited air which welcomes deep rest; whether sunbathing by the pool or thumbing a paperback.
Inside
An eclectic mix of antique pices and modern design, prodigious original art and authenticity intertwine inside this Georgian country house, showcasing the owners’ life well-lived through the film industry. Bibliophiles will be in their element at The Artist’s Retreat, with over 20,000 books lining the shelves of the four double bedrooms, living spaces and dining room conservatory promising escapes to faraway lands over freshly brewed coffee on quiet mornings. Come night, sink into the fireside freestanding tub, stars twinkling above the treetops outside.
Outside
Wend through the eight acres of garden, through the heady herb beds and past the ancient wishing well to the heated pool, where the lion’s share of summer days is sure to be spent evolving from morning dips, to waterside picnic lunches, to sundowners. A tipi hidden in the orchard makes for an adventurous den for children to play in between picking September apples for home-cooked crumbles, while a Bali day bed, football goal and al fresco dining area ensure the whole family are catered for.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests
From £2,750 per week, £1,995 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 4 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are four bedrooms on the first floor, one with super king-size bed and en suite bathroom with freestanding bath, walk-in shower and separate WC, along with three further bedrooms which share the family bathroom with freestanding Lusso stone bath and handheld shower attachement; two with king-size bed and one with double bed. There is also one separate WC on the ground floor.
View bedrooms - FeaturesOutdoor swimming pool (heated June - September), outdoor ping pong table, fire pit, croquet lawn, badminton
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Monday or FridayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabies and children are very welcome. One cot and one highchair are available.
- PracticalitiesAccess to the property is via single, narrow country lanes and there is space for four cars in the yard outside. The kitchen includes an Aga, Range cooker, fridge/freezer and two dishwashers. There is a separate utility room including a washing machine and tumble dryer. Due to the unfenced pool and pond, parents are requested to supervise children at all times.
- Homestay includesHamper filled with local produce, two turntables and vast selection of records, Bluetooth sound system, Bose sound system, Smart TV with Netflix, DVD player and DVDs, Chemex coffee machine, Superfast WiFi, seasonal freshly cut flowers...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Michaelstow
Whether pottering between North Cornwall´s picture-perfect fishing villages of Port Isaac and Tintagel, or exploring the wilds of Bodmin Moor´s imposing tors, Michaelstow offers the best of all worlds in this remote corner of England´s first and final county.
Getting there
- On the Map The Artist's Retreat is located in the Cornish village of Michaelstow, between Bodmin Moor and Port Isaac. The nearest proper town is Wadebridge.
- By Car From London, take the M4 towards Bath and the M5 South; the property is around five hours by car and just over an hour from Exeter.
- By Train The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway 12 miles away, which is around 25 minutes from the house by taxi.
- By Air Newquay airport is around a 30 minute drive away, while Exeter airport is around an hour away. Both have car hire available and we advise you book in advance.
From the owner
“The Artist´s Retreat has been the most wonderful family home for us and our children over the last 15 years; its most special features being secret, delightful and unexpected spots hidden in the house and throughout the gardens.”
There are so many things we love about the house; the three large reception rooms with roaring open fires, the slate floored kitchen and conservatory gathered full of friends, family and food. Floating in the swimming pool surrounded by oak, beech and alders. Sitting in the wild meadow with a good book. Playing badminton or croquet on the lawn. A picnic lunch under the grand oak. We could wax lyrical until the cows come home!
Being just five miles from the closest surfing beach, Tregardock, on the magnificent North Cornwall coastline and only three miles from Bodmin Moor´s wild woodlands, places the house in an exceptional spot of outstanding natural beauty, perfectly positioned for adventures both on land and sea.
If you can bear to tear yourself away, you can be swimming, surfing, or hiking in the gorgeous Cornish countryside within minutes, all before returning to the luxury of our beautiful country home.
The Whiteblooms
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Michaelstow with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
St Kew Inn
A 15th century inn chock full of original features and character, where all food is seasonal and wines carefully selected. Cosy in winter and with a large garden in summer; here is an inn that foodies should not miss.
To See
Explore the north coast
Explore Cornwall’s wild north, where quintessential fishing villages cling to the edges of cliffs; Port Isaac and Tintagel are a must, while seafood lovers must not miss Bostcastel´s The Rocket Store.
To See
Stand up Paddleboarding, Port Quin
A long, narrow and protected cove west of Port Isaac where paddleboarders can safely navigate the coastline´s caves and rockpools. Explore with a guide and group, or hire boards to go it alone.
To Do
The Camel Trail
Just eight miles from the start of the trail in Wadebridge, keen cycling enthusiasts can hop on their bikes to join the Camel Trail from the property. From here it´s all wine stops and lunch breaks until Padstow, where Rick Stein´s fish and chips awaits.
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 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
Upgrading Your Bedroom Floor
Living Etc.
June 2022Great British Summer
The Times
June 2022Cosy Sleep Spaces
Living Etc.
June 2022Orangery Inspiration
Living Etc.
June 2022Creating a Backyard Oasis
Living Etc.
June 2022Take a Dip, Stay the Night
The Times
May 2022Bright Outlook
Country Homes & Interiors
May 2022The 10 Most Stylish Villas
House & Garden
April 2022
Collections > Alternative Group Option > UK > Cornwall > Wadebridge > The Artist’s Retreat
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.
