The Meadows
Retyn, St Newlyn East, Cornwall, UK
There's a hint of Balearic island style to this rustic stone retreat. Tucked away within a secret location seven miles inland from Crantock and Watergate Bay in rural north Cornwall, this luxury self-catering barn is a haven for babymoons and romantic escapes. With a pacifying whitewashed aesthetic, hot tub and floating egg bath overlooking the swaying wildflower meadow, this is country living on modern terms.
Introduction
Carve through the Poldarkian scenery of Bodmin Moor, follow Cornish stone hedgerows and rattle over a cattlegrid to reach this sublime self-catering escape near the north Cornwall coast. Tucked into private grounds within an old farm settlement, this agricultural barn conversion is a haven of modern style. Spend days stomping through the scenery and evenings trialling the local restaurants; choose from fresh fish by the beach in Newquay or crab and chips in Padstow. Alternatively, for those wanting to close the doors on the outside world, simply settle by the log burner with a bottle of red and let the days blur in a romantic haze.
Inside
A design-led interior pairs poured concrete floors and worktops with lime-washed wood to bring about a clean, contemporary aesthetic that is soothing and relaxed all at the same time. The open-plan design incorporates high apex ceilings for plenty of space and light, with large glass windows to merge what is outside and in. From the cushions by Chickpea to the crockery by Pippi and Me, local producers have been used wherever possible. Brass monsoon showers twinkle in the sun, and a floating resin bath sits by a tall window in the master suite offering a serene spot to observe the morning mist lift from the meadow.
Outside
Flanked by fields of wildflowers, the rockery garden looks west towards distant hills dotted with windmills pirouetting in the Atlantic breeze. Paving stones bordered by heady lavender beds lead from the bedroom doors to the hot tub, inviting starlit evenings in the open air. As evening falls and the burning sunset fades, couples can dry off by the outside fire with a Cornish G&T. For excursions, discover the rare poppy fields by Polly Joke beach, or throw down a blanket and watch the sunrise over Watergate Bay with a barista-made coffee in a paper cup. Here, you will savour the simple things.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £1,650 per week, £1,250 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsThe master suite features a king-size bed, with french doors leading to the garden and a large freestanding resin bath at one end of the bedroom.
- FeaturesHot tub, outside fire
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms are very welcome, the dressing room converts to a peaceful nursery, with a cot and highchair set up on request.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for two cars on the private gravel drive beside the barn. The garden is private and opens onto fields. With everything needed for a luxury self-catering escape, the kitchen features poured concrete tops and built-in appliances including two under counter fridges with freezer compartments, a dishwasher and electric oven plus a washer-dryer, Nespresso machine, kettle and double Dualit toaster. As well as the log burner, underfloor heating runs throughout.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper with local produce, organic gin, luxury linen and towels, bath salts, linen bathrobes, Wi-Fi internet, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- 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 foraging weekenders to crash courses in cold-water therapy, our bespoke retreats bridge the gap between luxury and back-to-nature philosophies. Create a hand-crafted stay that puts connectivity at the fore.
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point, bee bricks in build
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Retyn
This tiny hamlet is a rural paradise, seven miles inland from the golden surf beaches of Newquay and Watergate Bay on the north Cornwall coast. The closest villages are St Newlyn East, Crantock and Mitchell - with pubs, strawberry fields and golden beaches for all weathers.
Getting there
- On the Map The Meadows is located in the tiny rural Cornish hamlet of Retyn approximately seven miles inland from Watergate Bay, Newquay and Crantock.
- By Car From London, take the M4 towards Bath, the M5 South and the A30 to Cornwall, the house an easy four miles off the A30 from Fraddon.
- By Train The nearest train station is in Newquay, around a 10 minute drive away, but there are more frequent and direct services from Bodmin Parkway, a 20 minute drive away, to London Paddington.
- By Air Newquay airport is a 15 minute drive away, where taxis and car hire are available in advance.
From the owner
“The Meadows was part of my parents farm, which they bought when I was two. With a small number of cows and horses it was more of an idyllic country home than a working farm. Five years ago, the farm was broken up and sold and I took on the challenge of renovating one of the barns - a project only possible due to the support and guidance from my family and friends.”
Back when my parents bought the farm in 1988, our modest smallholding comprised of a farmhouse, two simple but sizeable barns and a few smaller barns that were more tumbledown in stature.
Five years ago, my parents decided to relocate, and so the farmhouse, large fields and this plot were all due to be sold. As a child I have fond memories of playing football, climbing trees or flying my kite in the meadow. I could therefore see the huge potential this barn had with its stunning views.
Although I had little knowledge or experience with building, I had spent many hours watching Kevin McCloud pick apart similar projects and thought I could do the barn justice. I had a small obstacle in that I was imminently due to relocate to Hong Kong, which meant the whole journey from planning to completion has had to be managed from 9500 miles away.
The project has most certainly been a labour of love. I am particularly proud of how it was converted by local tradesmen, incorporating Cornish stone, slate and reclaimed timber, as well as environmentally-friendly details such as the Green and Blue bee bricks which we hope will encourage the bee population.
The Haines Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Retyn with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Watergate Bay
With a sweeping expanse of golden sand at the foot of the cliffs and some excellent eateries to choose from, a trip to Watergate Bay is a must. Hire surfboards from the Extreme Academy, walk the pooches on the dog-friendly beach or settle into some live music over a cocktail at Watchful Mary´s - the newest addition to the chic collection of hangouts in the bay.
To Eat
Basket, Newquay
New to the artsy food scene in Newquay, this tiny independent coffee house is the perfect pitstop on your way to the beach. Load a paper box up with slices of homemade banana bread and chocolate-dipped florentines, before heading on your way to find a sheltered spot for brunch in the dunes.
To Eat
Paul Ainsworth at No. 6, Padstow
Paul Ainsworth and his team have something quite special here in the narrow backstreets of Padstow Harbour. Featured in the 2020 Michelin Guide, Paul´s Georgian townhouse offers attractively presented dishes and first class flavours served-up in six individually styled dining suites. Be sure to book ahead.
To See
Bedruthan Steps
The huge granite stacks rising from the beach were once, according to legend, stepping stones for the Giant Bedruthan. Access to the beach can be restricted by tide and rockfall but the coast path along the top is stunning. Pack a picnic for the secluded beach at low tide or pop into The Scarlet for a Champagne cream tea en route home.
Guest Testimonials
This is genuinely the nicest cottage we have ever stayed in. It was absolutely perfect! The housekeeper was also incredible - extremely responsive and the property was absolutely immaculate. We want to come back again and again!
We had an amazing time at The Meadows. Could not fault any of it! Stunning property.
What can we say? Wow! The Meadows is out of this world - we have stayed in many places in Cornwall over the years and this place has blown each and every one out of the water. The attention to detail, the cleanliness, the hamper, flowers, dog treats on arrival - all are second to none. Then combine this with stunning weather, glorious coastal paths and white sandy beaches, plus the bonus of the incredible sunsets and you have the best combination. Thank you!
Our stay here couldn´t have been any more perfect and we are both truly grateful. The attention to detail and the little touches are so lovely. The Meadows is absolutely stunning! We´ve had the most amazing little holiday here and have been able to switch off completely and take it all in. The view of the sunset every evening was just perfect. Thank you so much for everything. Hopefully, we will be back one day.
Thank you for an amazing stay! The little touches here and there really made it all the more special. You have an amazing property here and we cannot wait to come back to The Meadows!
What a total treat! We´ve had the best honeymoon here and are leaving feeling so relaxed. Who needs to go abroad when you have gems like this in the UK?! The design is flawless, and the little touches throughout are the cherry on the cake. Thank you so much for the fizz! Our first cork popped as husband & husband! We´ll be back!
The Meadows is absolutely gorgeous! Everything has been done to a very high standard - the bedding is lovely and soft, the toiletries provided are really nice, and the finishing touches, like the fizz, scones and mince pies just made our arrival really special. Thank you.
The Meadows is extremely well designed and very comfortable. It is clearly apparent that a great deal of thought went into the quality and ease of use of this gorgeous barn conversion!
We loved the style of the property, the minimalist approach, and the attention to detail. The hamper was much appreciated - never tasted sparkling wine like it and we loved the toothbrushes!
We had a wonderful time and The Meadows has exceeded all our expectations. It is a peaceful retreat and we are going home feeling de-stressed and relaxed. Thank you for the thoughtful extras and the obvious hard work you have put in to make the barn immaculate and very comfortable. It really has been appreciated! We hope to visit again soon.
A stunning property in an idyllic location! The lovely, thoughtful touches like the hamper, candles, bath salts and wildflowers from the meadow were wonderful. Thank you.
Our stay was wonderful, the property is incredibly beautiful and all of the personal touches were so lovely - engraved toothbrushes, pasties left with instructions for how to bake and how they are made, little flowers sprinkled throughout the house... We couldn´t have been happier!
Unique extras
From private chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and adrenalin-fuelled retreats, once you’ve booked your stay we’ll introduce you to our owner-recommended suppliers to create a truly bespoke, memorable escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which The Meadows 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
Dreamy Christmas cottages
The Times
October 2022Christmas window decoration ideas
Living Etc.
November 2021Home from Home
Elle Decoration
September 2020Smart sleepovers
Condé Nast Traveller
September 2023Design tricks from the UK´s most stylish holiday lets
The Telegraph
September 2023Homes from House & Garden you can rent for a holiday
House & Garden
September 2023Travel by design
Condé Nast Traveller
September 2023The UK´s best stargazing spots
House & Garden
September 2023
Collections > Long Let Holiday Homes and Properties > UK > Cornwall > St Newlyn East > The Meadows
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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.
