Whimplestone
Gunnislake, Tamar Valley, Cornwall, UK
Simple luxury reigns at this pared-back self-catering Cornish farmhouse on the banks of the River Tamar, and close to the stannary town of Tavistock on the western edge of Dartmoor, where Goosey Fair is held annually. A rural paradise surrounded by emerald countryside, Whimplestone sits on the Cornwall-Devon border in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Run wild within the 50 acres of private woodland, nature-filled gardens and cherry orchard, and cool down in the natural outdoor swimming pool.
Introduction
Approached via a winding track flanked by wildflower meadows, Whimplestone is a large Grade-II listed Cornish farmhouse set in 50 acres of magical woodland. Aesthetically pleasing and idyllically located near the old market town of Tavistock in the Tamar Valley, this luxury self-catering farmhouse is perfect for those seeking complete peace, seclusion and simple luxuries while on holiday, as well as a chance to re-attune with nature. Sit by the natural pool with a picnic of cucumber sandwiches and homemade lemonade and later, snuggle up in front of the fire with a glass of red or stay put outside to admire the moon's reflection on the river.
Inside
Epitomising refined country charm, Whimplestone's simple canvas is dotted with mid-century furnishings and time-worn antiques. With both spacious rooms and cosy nooks, come together for flowing conversation and fine cuisine, or curl up somewhere quiet to unwind and escape to literary worlds. Providing somewhere for everyone to rest their heads, Whimplestone’s three king-size (including two en suite) and two twin bedrooms are elegantly furnished and adorned with fine linens. The farmhouse also boasts a large family bathroom with claw-foot bath, as well as a wet room with walk-in rain shower.
Outside
Whimplestone farmhouse sits alongside one and a half miles of breathtaking river frontage with trees, the towering Morwell rocks (as painted by Turner) and a beautiful protected water meadow. A private gated entrance leads through the valley, where you can wander through the orchards and admire the scenery. The local pub is conveniently just a short stroll away, and there are wildlife-spotting opportunities all around en route. Keep your eyes peeled for osprey, barn owls, spoonbills, peregrine falcons, kingfishers and conferences of dragonfly – you might even be lucky enough to spot otters playing too.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 8 guests from £2,650 per week
Day hire options are available - Alternative group optionsUp to 4 or up to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsOne first floor double bedroom with a king-size bed and en suite bathroom hidden behind the partition wall, two first floor twin bedrooms, one first floor family bathroom with shower attachment, one first floor wet room with walk-in shower, one ground floor WC
View bedrooms - FeaturesTable tennis, natural outdoor swimming pool (available July - September)
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: FridayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10amTimes may vary due to Covid-19 requirements, please refer to your booking.
- FamilyBabes-in-arms and children are very welcome. One travel cot, one highchair and one toddler´s chair are available
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for three cars. The utility room has an additional fridge and dishwasher, washing machine and dryer. Please note there is no microwave.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper, 50" VideoWave TV with Bose surround-sound system and film library, Bang & Olufsen BeuPlay A9 speaker, iPad, WiFi internet, charcoal barbecue, linen, towels, logs and kindling to get you started.House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Gunnislake
Gunnislake and the Tamar Valley area are dominated by the stunning River Tamar. Surrounding areas such as Cotehele, Tavistock, Albaston, Morwellham and Kit Hill boast stately home and garden attractions and wildlife-spotting opportunities a-plenty.
Getting there
- On the Map This large luxury self-catering farmhouse is near the village of Calstock on the Devon-Cornwall border within the Tamar Valley. Not far from Tavistock, Plymouth, Gunnislake and Launceston.
- By Car From London, take the M4 toward Bath, take M5 South and A30 to Cornwall and follow the directions provided to the property.
- By Train Gunnislake train station is less than a mile away (up a steep hill!) and has regular connections to Plymouth, with regular train services running from Plymouth to Exeter and London Paddington.
- By Air Newquay airport is approximately one hour away from the property.
From the owner
“One of our favourite aspects of Whimplestone, the walled garden is a haven for the whole family to enjoy a Cornish game of Smite as the sun takes a bow and sinks behind the pines. We hope that the beautiful surrounds capture you every bit as much as they have us.”
The house was originally built around 1610 and we have worked hard to restore its original features. We do hope that you will enjoy the simple monastic feel of the original lime render and numerous antique fittings and furniture. We have also included lots of modern-day additions to make Whimplestone a truly relaxing and pleasurable place to be.
When you can tear yourself away, it is great to escape outdoors to explore the woods and walk along the tidal river in this special corner of the Tamar Valley. Rich in wildlife and truly magical, we hope that the beautiful surrounds capture you every bit as much as they have captured us.
The Ogden Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Gunnislake with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
On the River
Hire canoes for all the family from Cotehele Quay and experience the delight of gliding in a silent boat in some of the most beautiful scenery in the country; past steeply sloping woodland, old quays, mine chimneys, farms and boatyards.
To See
Homes & Gardens
Cotehele House is five minutes from Whimplestone, festooned with tapestries, textiles, arms and armour. Saltram House, also closeby, was home to the same family for nearly 300 years and provides a fascinating insight into country-estate life throughout the centuries.
To Do
Donkeys and Sealife
There is a charming donkey sanctuary nearby where children can meet ´Cornwall´s happiest donkeys´! Great for rainy days, the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is just a half hour drive away, as is the Warner Village cinema.
To Eat
The Springer Spaniel, Launceston
A delightful country pub with a freshly prepared menu designed to tempt and delight anyone looking for a fine dining experience. Whether it’s an intimate date for two or a family meal, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Guest Testimonials
It´s so rare to find somewhere that exceeds expectations - from the amazing setting and utter tranquillity outside to the ultimate in style and luxury inside. After lots of fresh air and long walks it was wonderful to come back to a roaring fire, hot water for all, a well-equipped kitchen and separate areas for adults and teens so we could enjoy ourselves while they did their thing. And then to the most comfortable beds possible. I wasn’t happy to leave but have consoled myself with the thought that we will be back soon.
We had a wonderful stay over Christmas at Whimplestone. The house and its furnishings are simply gorgeous! We particularly loved the keen eye for design throughout, from the Iittala cookware, through to Vola brassware and the Bose TV! We will definitely be back.
What a blissful stay! The serene quiet of Whimplestone is matched only by the impressiveness of the surrounding countryside. Roaring fires keep you toasty while enjoying the rustic charms of the stone floors, we loved it!
We just wanted to say that once again we had a wonderful time at Whimplestone, it truly is unique and magical. We sat there every evening talking about the amazing setting and your exquisite taste , we couldn´t ask for more. Thank you and hopefully we will return again.
We had a fantastic holiday and really respect the care and love put into the place; the design, finish and kit, it´s beautiful and the river in storm flow and location spellbinding.
We had a brilliant time at Whimplestone which has clearly been renovated recently to a very high standard, and in an extremely stylish way. The house sits perfectly in the landscape, welcoming people from far and wide, just as it has done for hundreds of years
It´s great to escape (the city) to a place where you are surrounded and embraced by natural beauty..waking in the morning to breathtaking views of a beautiful gorge and soothing sounds of a nearby river...then spending the day enjoying good walks and fresh air...then resting in the evenings in front of a roaring fire...only to sleep very soundly and deeply. We left Whimplestone rested and recharged by nature.
Usually houses of Whimplestone´s size can start to get chilly at this time of year, and I must admit I like my warmth, but was delighted when my cashmere was not even thrown over my shoulders let alone put on! My husband likes cooking and I liked just chilling in your lovely kitchen while he did all the hard work. We plan to return next year!
Many thanks for our stay at Whimplestone. Loved it! I´m very urban and am not used to grass beneath my feet, but found myself immersed in your land, pottering with the children... the backdrop is stunning and it really is a garden of interest. And the farm itself, every single nook and cranny is filled with good design, an interior fanatic´s dream house! I have never stayed in a place where I wouldn´t want to change a single thing.
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 Whimplestone 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
Rural Restoration
25 Beautiful Homes
August 2019A Rustic Cornish Cottage
Living Etc.
September 2021The Race to Book a 2022 Staycation
The Telegraph
September 2021Summer 2022 Escapes
The Times
September 2021September Escapes
The Telegraph
September 2021How to Create a Profitable Holiday Home
The Telegraph
August 2021An Ancient Folly
Living Etc.
August 2021Plain Sailing
Country Homes & Interiors
August 2021
Collections > Luxury Homes with Pools > UK > Cornwall > Gunnislake > Whimplestone
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.
