Morse | Luxury Design-Led Coastal Retreat | Porthcurno, Cornwall

Morse

St Levan, Porthcurno, Cornwall, UK

What may, at first glance, appear to be an unassuming green mound camouflaged into this corner of West Cornwall, is a home waiting to have its secrets revealed. For this is a WWII bunker like never seen before – whose position, moments from the most sublime slice of Cornish coastline, important past and clever design when you step 'underground' evoke an irrepressible, clandestine awe.

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Introduction

Constructed as a communications bunker to facilitate secret messages being transmitted across the sea to the USA during WWII, it’s impossible not to feel an appreciation for Morse's important role in the UK's wartime history when setting foot inside. To celebrate this, original elements of the building have been left untouched, including ventilation pipes and concrete walls – made to Ministry of Defence standards. Now, post renovation, light pours in through glass doors and windows on all four sides. For war buffs, design lovers and nature enthusiasts, Morse is out of hiding. 

Inside

Brutalist and distinctive, the pebble-grey palette of floor-to-ceiling concrete flirts with designer furnishings. Charcoal-black additions from the architect owner immediately draw the eye in the living space, including the iconic Ligne Roset Togo sofa by Michael Ducaroy and 1950s leather Coconut chair by George Nelson, with Artemide light fixtures bringing a touch of Milanese chic. The kitchen, visible through an opening sliced through the concrete, spills onto the west-facing ‘gin and tonic’ terrace; whilst two honeyed, wood-clad bedrooms provide snug dens for slumber. 

Outside

Emerging from the grass-covered bunker, the half-acre garden has many seating spots speckled around. Choose to gaze from various vantage points at the encircling countryside, relax with a book or socialise with loved ones – local Polgoon cider in hand. From Morse, Cornwall’s famed Pedn Vounder, Porthcurno and Sennen beaches (whose turquoise waters and white sands rival that of any Maldivian isle), trendy food spots of Penzance and Newlyn (where fresh seafood is the star of the show) and iconic cliffside Minack Theatre are all in touching distance by car, foot or bike.

The Facts

  • SleepsUp to 2 (+ 2) guests
    From £1,250 per week, £995 per short break
  • Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are two bedrooms: one with an en suite and one with use of the second WC and shower room.
    View bedrooms
  • PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
    Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof
  • Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
  • FamilyYes, children are very welcome.
  • PracticalitiesThe approach to the property is along a country lane, less suitable for low slung cars. There is parking outside for up to four cars, and a bike rack. The kitchen is well equipped; featuring an oven, induction hob, microwave, fridge, a range of modern appliances including an air fryer, as well as a dishwasher and washer/dryer. Dogs are very welcome and the land is fenced, however it is not guaranteed to be dog proof. Animals also graze in the fields surrounding the property, so dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and must not enter the fields.
  • Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper including champagne, fresh bread and a range of savoury and sweet treats, Wi-Fi internet, Smart TV, board games and firewood to get you started.House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
  • Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options.
    Explore private dining
  • RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book.
  • Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions

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Wood-clad walls and pops of green bring warmth
Light pours into the space from all four sides
The kitchen is visible through an opening in the concrete

Prices & Availability

Penzance

Set on Cornwall’s rugged coast, Penzance blends maritime heritage with a booming creative and foodie scene. From Chapel Street’s independent stores to the Art Deco Jubilee Pool, this town has a laid-back vibe steeped in smuggler lore.

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Penzance
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Getting there

  • On the Map St Levan is a small hamlet located in West Penwith, near Porthcurno.
  • By Car From London, the journey time is approximately six hours and 15 minutes, or under four hours from Bristol.
  • By Train There are regular trains departing from London Paddington to Penzance. Penzance train station is approximately a 25-minute drive from the property. 
  • By Air Lands End Airport is approximately a 14-minute drive from the property, and Newquay Airport one hour and 15 minutes.

From the owner

“A recently retired architect, Nick was excited to take on the challenge of converting an iconic concrete underground transmitter station into a luxurious home. He was keen to retain as much of the original structure as possible and brought in light through carefully considered new openings. He loves the respectful juxtaposition between the new and the old and enjoyed sourcing the designer furnishings.”

From the owner

Living locally, we recognised the unique nature of the building, its amazing history and the importance of its beautiful rural setting – and so took on the challenge to transform it into what is now a stunning two-bedroomed, two-bathroomed home. The project took three years to complete, and there is a book of photographs charting the journey in the living room.

We knew from the start that a suburban-looking formal garden with neat rows of bedding plants would be completely inappropriate, so we've mown grass paths through what is becoming one large wildflower meadow. Having bought extra land from the neighbouring farmer to allow Morse more privacy, we have planted over a thousand native tree and hedging saplings – hawthorn, wild rose, gorse, blackthorn, wild cherry, sycamore, pine and willow.  

As well as the warm and cosy nature of the house, we love the privacy of sitting in the garden, listening to skylarks trilling and buzzards mewing, with Penwith’s Dark and Bronze Age standing stones silhouetted on the skyline. We walk the ancient paths to the coast before an evening barbecue on the sunset terrace as the dark skies fill with stars. This is an ancient place with special stories to tell. We hope you enjoy it all as much as we do.

Nick and Tim

Owner recommendations

Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Penzance with an insider's perspective.

Porthmeor Beach Cafe, St Ives

To Eat

Porthmeor Beach Cafe, St Ives

Our favourite of a huge number of restaurants in St Ives. An imaginative modern menu served in a laid back, seaside style. Booking is crucial in the summer. Ask for a pod on their terrace to watch the sun set over the sea.

The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno

To See

The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno

This world famous open-air theatre is carved into the cliff, overlooking Porthcurno Bay. With a full programme of live performances, you can explore the dramatic site and glorious sub-tropical gardens, too.

Pedn Vounder, Treen

To Do

Pedn Vounder, Treen

Not far from Penzance and with its white sands, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, Pedn Vounder is arguably the most beautiful beach in Cornwall. Reached by foot only, be sure to check tide times when visiting.

Mousehole Deli & Kitchen, Mousehole

To Shop

Mousehole Deli & Kitchen, Mousehole

A busy restaurant and deli right on the harbour in Mousehole. They do takeaway, so we suggest nipping in for a pasty or sandwiches to eat on the beach below, before stocking up on the wide range of wine on offer.

Guest Testimonials

Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google

We escaped here to avoid the early stages of empty nest blues. Morse kept us happy and busy. There are so many wonderful places to visit. We loved Newlyn and ate delicious lunches at The Falcon Inn. Porthcurno Beach is stunning, as are the coastal paths around it. We visited Porthgwarra and walked almost as far as Nanjizal Beach. We loved Sennen Cove; the beach is incredible and surfer-watching is mesmerizing. Morse is an extraordinary house - so comfortable and peaceful.

Thank you so much for the hamper of vegan goodies, we were very touched. We have loved our stay at Morse; unique and rich in history. It´s a beautiful place and well worth our long drive from the North. The Cornish tea has gone down very well, and that´s from Yorkshire folk. Five stars!

I can´t believe we are the first people to experience this amazing place. It´s the perfect place to unwind. It´s bright and comfortable, it´s extraordinary and fun. Fabulous interior. We love the contrast of warm furnishings with the brutal exposed concrete and best of all light pouring in from glass doors on three sides. The setting is lovely, surrounded by fields and lovely nooks and plenty of cosy places to sit. Loved it and we had a magical week.

OMG! Wow wow wow! We loved everything about Morse. The peace and tranquillity, the light during the day and then the cosiness of the evenings with the shutters closed. Fabulously finished and let it be so comfortable. It´s an amazing conversion. Well done to the owners. You´ve kept the brutal nature of the concrete and paired it with luxury. The beds are sublime! Thanks for doing the project and making it available to people who wish to experience. We will be back!

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're curious about pet policies, the nearest walkable pubs, or wild swimming spots, we have the answers to common property-specific queries here. For everything else, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Press

Below are a selection of features in which Morse 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.

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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.