
Guest testimonials
We booked as we were looking for an extra special place to stay the week of our elopement, which was at Holywell Bay. The ´theme´ of our elopement was beachy, coastal, and so the aesthetic of the accommodation was exactly the vibe we were after. It was perfect, like a little sanctuary to sneak away to! We have photographs from The Cotton Tree that we will treasure forever! We hope to be back for our ´big´ anniversaries over the years to come.
Absolutely fabulous stay at the Cotton Tree, the property is simply stunning. The attention to detail was incredible and we could not have asked for a more amazing stay, already cannot wait to return.
This has currently been the only accommodation we can say we relaxed into immediately, it usually takes a couple of days. From the moment we walked through the door we knew we would enjoy our stay. It was exciting to explore the property and discover all the little touches and décor. I would highly recommend Unique Homestays and this cottage in particular. It was so light, airy, and just a dream. I have booked another property with you, we cannot wait to see where that one takes us.
The property was absolutely perfect for us and exactly as described in a great location. The pictures on the website don´t give the property justice, it was lovelier than expected! Having a completely enclosed garden gave us peace of mind that our dog was safe and couldn´t escape. The housekeeper is exceptional, really warm, welcoming and gave us lots of useful info for local dog walks. I have already recommended Unique Homestays to my friends and would definitely book through you again.
Perfect bijou cottage for two people to escape to Cornwall for a week. Always a bonus to find somewhere of such high standards that allows dogs. We will definitely book again, thank you.
We were delighted with the standard of The Cotton Tree, beautifully decorated and excellently maintained. The gardens were lovely and safe for our dogs which is important. The hot tub was an absolute treat. First visit to Holywell Bay, it´s so pretty, we´ll be back.
This is the most beautiful place. We have loved looking at and appreciating every last detail. We have enjoyed BBQs in the garden, and soaks in the hot tub. Thank you for the bubbly! I have spent so much time just looking at all the grasses blowing in the garden. Perranporth beach was incredible and the Lost Church. We enjoyed a local walk across the fields and dunes to Holywell Bay too. We would absolutely love to come back one day.
We have been very impressed with the whole experience from booking through to the wonderful week we’ve just enjoyed at The Cotton Tree. Would definitely recommend. Thank you.
The Cotton Tree looked beautiful on the website and was even more wonderful in real life. It was complete luxury for our family for the week. The house is practical whilst maintaining amazing boho decor and we can´t wait to book again. Unique Homestays always offer an amazing service and we would never dream of holidaying with any other company in the UK.
What an absolutely stunning house and just the most wonderful birthday stay. Thank you for creating such a haven. It has been the most perfect time and we will be back. Thank you.
A beautiful and very chic house, The Cotton Tree is very relaxing and just what we needed. Thank you so much for the welcome gifts in the hamper, they were very much appreciated. We look forward to staying with you again!
We just would love to say a big thank you. We found a new home at The Cotton Tree, something so outstanding, beautiful, fresh and welcoming. A cosy place, with a lovely fireplace that just called us to return in the evenings. Thank you for having us and with a warm heart, we wish you all the best.
We booked The Cotton Tree two days before arriving and it has been the perfect, last minute getaway - it´s absolutely stunning! We´ve enjoyed blustery walks to Holywell Bay before relaxing in the hot tub! We hope to be back later in the year!
Just the perfect Christmas week! Such a wonderful house and although the weather wasn´t overly kind, we had some great long walks; the beaches and scenery are stunning! Thank you for making The Cotton Tree so welcoming and Christmassy.
The entire property is stunning. Everything is beautifully presented, the property has everything you would need for a little getaway. Arriving with the music on and a bottle of bubbly plus other lovely things was such a wonderful touch. And the fireplace is divine! We love design, attention to detail and beautiful interiors and everything is so beautiful and all the small details made our trip really perfect. Our experience with Unique Homestays was outstanding and we will definitely be going back for future holidays.
We loved it! Having the Sonos playing when we arrived was a lovely touch, as was the local produce which we tucked into after our journey! The dog bowl and bed were very sweet. Being able to let our dog, Teddy, wander in the enclosed garden was great! The bathroom is my favourite, so well styled and with big powerful showers and underfloor heating; all very luxurious. The vintage, reclaimed, industrial fixtures and fittings worked well and combined with the mod cons it´s a very well-designed property. If only we could have stayed longer!
Well, what a perfect start to married life! Our honeymoon here was absolutely perfect! The Cotton Tree is just amazing and we don´t want to leave. We were lucky and have had some truly beautiful weather. We love Holywell Bay and The Treguth Inn is a lovely pub, plus it serves my favourite gin! There are great walks to be had all around, we had a great wander to Crantock and a good soak in the hot tub when we got back! The perfect place and perfect location!
Read more reviews on TrustPilot and Google or hear from the owner
The Cotton Tree
Tresean, Holywell Bay, Cornwall, UK
A clapperboard retreat settled in a quiet north Cornwall village, The Cotton Tree is just minutes from the rolling surf of Holywell Bay and Polly Joke beach. A fresh approach on coastal living, this luxury self-catering cottage is a place to soak in the hot tub with a glass of fizz under the midday sun and hunker down with the dog in front of the woodburner. Read more...
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Introduction
Taking inspiration from the owner’s extensive time spent on Australia’s north coast, this luxury self-catering cottage near Holywell Bay embodies the very essence of Queenslander-style living. Here is a dog-friendly bolthole that oozes laid-back romance; you'll find thick linens, salvaged sailing relics, and exposed wood behind The Cotton Tree’s walls, while a wraparound sun deck and gurgling hot tub combine to create elevated outdoor living. Just one miles' walk over undulating hills is the surf and sand, making this stylish beach house-inspired escape one of north Cornwall's coolest coastal homes.
Inside
With a beachcomber edge to the scheme, open plan indoor-outdoor living combine in this Antipodean-esque abode. White-washed walls and age-worn wood create a timeless aesthetic at The Cotton Tree and, despite its light and bright summer-vibe interiors, this luxury self-catering cottage is as cosy a winter retreat for couples as it is a stylised summer getaway. There's a romantic edge to the bedroom, where loose linen casually drapes from floor to ceiling within this zen zone. If parents are travelling with little ones, there is a single bedroom that can be taken in addition to the master bedroom.
Outside
From the hot tub that leads directly from the bedroom, to the pergola covered seating area and alfresco dining veranda; whatever the Cornish weather, you can still be assured of a fresh air fix. Inspired by the simple coastal planting scheme, head beachward for an on-foot exploration that will have your toes sandy in no time. Those seeking new experiences can partake in a surf lesson, kayak trip, or fish for your supper expedition. Some of Britain's best dog-friendly beaches are within close proximity of the cottage for those travelling to this romantic couples' retreat with four-legged friends in tow.
A small set of steps separate the double bedroom from the rest of the house, where there is a single bedroom (available on prior request at an additional cost of £75) and a bathroom with cast iron bath and separate double shower.

Bedroom One
Ground floor king-size bedroom
A small set of steps separate the double bedroom with king-size bed from the rest of the house

Bedroom Two
Ground floor single bedroom
The single bedroom can be made available on prior request at an additional cost of £75. This bedroom is suitable for children.
- PricingFrom £1,250 per week, £950 per short break
Day hire options are available - HousekeepingAdditional housekeeping can be arranged
- FeaturesHot tub
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - FamilyChildren and babies are welcome
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for two cars. The kitchen has an oven and hobs, dishwasher, fridge, freezer and a washer-dryer. The single bedroom can be used, on request, for an additional £75; a rail can be attached to the side of the bed, perfect for toddlers
- Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a special meal to mark an occasion, you'll find private chef options in your house book, available once your booking is confirmed
- 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
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point available
Arrivals & departures
Arrival time: 4pm
Departure time: 10am
Other information
Fresh produce
- Freshly baked bread
- Locally sourced milk
- Free-range, fresh Cornish eggs
- Cornish butter
- Furniss West Country cheddar biscuits
- Davidstow reserve cheddar cheese
- The Bay Tree spicy tomato and caramelised onion chutney
- Burts hand cooked sea salt crisps
- Chateau de l’Aulee Cremant
Please note - the owners strive to source the best produce for your welcome hamper, however, the contents may vary slightly depending on the season and availability. If you have any dietary requirements, please contact us at the time of booking and we will accommodate this wherever possible.
Those all-important little luxuries
- Noble Isle luxury toiletries
- Luxury bed linen and towels
- Hammam towels for the hot tub
- Linen bathrobes
- Sonos multiroom system
- Netflix
- iPad
- Logs and kindling to get you started
- Nespresso coffee machine and pods
- Cafetiere and ground coffee
- A selection of teas
- Instant coffee
- Olive oil
- A selection of books
- Board games
- Hairdryer
- Condiments, dried herbs and spices
- Dog treats, bowl and towel
- Bed guard for single bed
- Highchair and travel cot
House book - your property and destination guide
Together with the owners, we've collated everything you'll need to make the most of your experience, from insider tips on local gems to practical property information, all in one digital house book, shared the moment you book.
Holywell Bay
A mile of golden beach, a handful of rock pools and a backdrop of dunes: no wonder this beautiful Cornish bay is deemed a blissful holiday hangout.

Getting there
- On the map The cottage is situated in the hamlet of Tresean close to Holywell Bay and Polly Joke on the north coast of Cornwall.
- By car From London, take the M4, the M5, then the A30 into Cornwall and follow the directions provided to the property.
- By train Nearest train station is Newquay (15 minutes drive), although services are infrequent. Bodmin Parkway train station (approximately 45 minutes drive) or Truro (20 minutes drive) offer more frequent services.
- By air Newquay Airport is approximately 20 minutes drive away.

“Taking me back to my days spent in Australia, the design for The Cotton Tree took all the elements of a beach cottage that I´d seen/stayed in/admired to create a holistic wellness inspired abode, that´s at once uplifting and rejuvenating.”
Living in Australia for over 10 years with a young family, I had always wanted to recreate the laid-back essence of beach cottages that can often be found along the Queensland coast.
With the family now all grown up, I now find myself able (when time permits) to enjoy indulgent escapes with my partner, and when the opportunity to purchase the piece of land on which The Cotton Tree now resides came about I immediately had in mind the property I might create.
With whitewashed interiors, lofty ceilings and a focus on indoor/outdoor living, we created a space that offers tranquillity for busy minds.
We both have demanding jobs that take up a lot of our time and when I'm here I relish waking to birdsong, spending a relaxing afternoon in the garden and mostly the fact that I can walk to Holywell Bay and Porth Joke Beach! There are also some really lovely eateries nearby for those who want to truly relax during your break!
The Stanleys
Discover the best destinations, experiences and restaurants to visit during your stay in Holywell Bay. A larger selection of recommendations will be available in the property's digital house book.
To See
The Minack Theatre
The Minack Theatre is a stunning open-air theatre carved into the hillside overlooking Porthcurno Beach. Watching a play unfold as the sun sets over the sea is a truly magical experience; don´t forget a cushion, blanket and bottle of preferred to really get into the spirit!
To Eat
The Fish House, Newquay
An award-winning restaurant run by chef Paul Harwood, so be sure to book early. Enjoy fantastic views out over the ocean, delicious fresh fish dishes, wonderful wine and a superb atmosphere.
To Do
Camel Trail
A great day out for all the family to enjoy, The Camel Trail runs between Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Enjoy peaceful views across the estuary and stop off for the afternoon in Padstow for treats and a trip to the Lobster Sanctuary.
To Do
Cornish Wine Tours
Cornish Wine Tours offer trips to visit the best of the Cornish vineyards. From Camel Valley, Trivibban Mill, Knightor Winery and Bosue Vinyard, tours run Tuesday to Saturday with the option of half and full day tours with lunch.
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.
How close are the neighbours?
The Cotton Tree sits within a cul-de-sac of four homes, and whilst the garden has screening, there are properties on either side.
Can an adult use the single bedroom?
Yes, this room can accommodate an adult as the bed is a standard sized single.
Can I walk to the pub?
Yes, the Smuggler’s Den Inn is 1.6 miles away, or a 45 minute walk. The walk is via farmland, country lanes without footpaths, and through the village.
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.
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7 dramatic castles for faithfuls and traitors alike
Country Living
September 2026
21 cosy cottage breaks for autumn
The Times
September 2026
Yearncations are the travel trend set to take over this autumn
Condé Nast Traveller
September 2026
The endless horizon
COAST
September 2026
Ease into autumn
Country Living
September 2026
More characterful cottages in the UK
The Times
September 2026
8 lesser-known islands to explore around the UK
SheerLuxe
September 2026
The secret UK getaways where you can escape Britain´s summer crowds
Daily Mail
August 2026
Related collections
Collections > Luxury staycations in the UK > UK > Cornwall > Holywell Bay > The Cotton Tree





