Guest testimonials
Fabulous property, so close to the sea. Just mesmerising listening to the sea at night and watching the tides during the day. The bed was amazing, big and comfortable with soft luxury bedding. Great views in the morning as we opened the blinds. The wood burner was so cosy in the cooler evenings. We can’t wait to come back.
All four of us thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Spyglass. The cottage was extremely comfortable and we were very impressed with the interior design detail. The highlight of our stay was a visit to The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Our son visited last summer and had a fantastic time. I thought it looked wonderful and immediately booked for 2022, the property did not disappoint! We loved spending time swimming at the beach.
We had such a great time that we did not want to leave! It was fantastic, absolutely loved it. We could not fault our time here, it was perfect! We already can´t wait to visit again- thank you!
Our family fell in love with Gorran Haven and The Spyglass. We will have memories of this place for a long time to come. We enjoyed the views over the sea, invigorating morning swims, and the scenery on the coastal paths. The home was very tastefully decorated and we all had the best sleeps of our month-long holiday there (probably a combination of the wonderfully comfy beds and sounds of the sea). When the tide comes in it almost makes a giant tidal pool in front of the house and when it goes out a lovely big sandy beach that the boys could run around on. Skimming rocks became a favourite past time!
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The Spyglass
Gorran Haven, Cornwall, UK
Up to 4 guests
Two medium well-behaved dogs are welcome
Children and babies are welcomeSurrender to the call of the sea and embrace your adventurous side as The Spyglass seduces you into the enchanting world of maritime Cornwall. With fisherman-style interiors and just a stone’s throw from the sea, this luxury self-catering beach cottage is one of Gorran Haven’s best kept secrets. Drop anchor and make yourself at home. Read more...
Allows babes in arms
Allows children
Two well behaved dogs welcome
Wi-Fi
Sea views
Real fire
TV
Barbecue
Pub within walking distance
Cot
Highchair
Sound system- More
Introduction
Full of history, The Spyglass was part of the original fort built to defend Gorran Haven during Napoleonic times. Whilst retaining much of its authentic charm, these days, The Spyglass offers a much more luxurious purpose. With crystal clear waters lapping at the wall beneath and intriguing interior touches, this unique homestay is an idyllic retreat for families. Break routine with long lie-ins and early evenings, and spend days exploring the surroundings. Gorran Haven lies on the fringes of the Roseland Peninsula AONB, commanding unsurpassed sea views and extensive cliff top walks.
Inside
Behind the strong stone walls of this luxury beach cottage, a vintage maritime theme weaves its way through every room, fusing the owner’s sense of adventure with tales of the property’s roots. Enjoy exquisite sea views and um-and-ah over which is your favourite spot; perhaps by the crackling fire in the lounge or around the dining table with Cornish wine and lobster. Maybe it’s nestled in the window-side armchair with views of boats drifting gently in the breeze, or in the master bedroom’s gorgeous super king-size bed wrapped in the thick duvet on a winter morning. Maybe it's all of them.
Outside
The Spyglass sits within touching distance from Gorran Haven beach, affording easy access to salty swims and sandy toes throughout the day. To get your legs marching and heart pumping, walk the coast paths and discover a labyrinth of tiny hamlets, lush woodland and secret coves. Upon return, set flame-grilled feasts on the barbecue, pick a blanket to snuggle up in and watch the sea change from silver to pink and squid-ink blue. A roaring fire and rum on the rocks will be the perfect complement to clear, crisp nights, with glittering seas and twinkling stars all around.
There is one double bedroom and one twin bedroom, both on the fist floor. They share the family bathroom, also on the same floor.
Bedroom One
First Floor Double Bedroom
The main bedroom, with its nautical interior and sea views, has a super king-size bed and shares the family bathroom with bedroom two.
Bedroom Two
First Floor Twin Bedroom
The twin bedroom, with its teal-and-ivory interiors, has a two single beds and shares the family bathroom with bedroom one.
Family Bathroom
First Floor Family Bathroom
The family bathroom has an impressive freestanding bathtub, walk-in shower, and WC.
- PricingFrom £1,595 per week, £1,150 per short break for up to 4 guests
An alternative group size of up to 2 guests is available during selected periods at a reflective rate - PetsTwo medium well-behaved dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per stay - FamilyChildren and babies are welcome
- PracticalitiesDue to the bijou nature of the village, luggage can be dropped outside but cars must park in the paid car park a five-minute walk away, with charges varying seasonally. The kitchen has an electric oven, washer dryer, microwave and fridge-freezer. The garden is not enclosed and the property is accessed via a steep, uneven path
- 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
Arrivals & departures
Arrival time: 4pm
Departure time: 10am
Other information
Fresh produce
- Fresh loaf of bread
- Cornish milk
- Local eggs
- Cornish butter
- Bacon
- Jar of local jam
- Jar of local relish
- Box of Cornish biscuits
- Sparkling water
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 amount of people comprising your party.
Those all-important little luxuries
- L’Occitane toiletries
- Luxury bed linen and towels
- Beach towels
- Laid fire with additional wood, coal and kindling to get you started
- A selection of teas
- Ground coffee
- Instant coffee
- Dualit Nespresso coffee machine
- Olive oil
- Magazines
- Sonos music system
- Blu-Ray DVD player
- Board games
- Wi-Fi (40mbs fibre-optic broadband)
- Hairdryer
- Dog bowls
- Condiments, dried herbs and spices
- Recipe books
- 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.
Gorran Haven
Nestled to the north of Cornwall´s Roseland Peninsula, this sleepy fisherman´s bay really is a haven for those seeking peace and tranquillity, with tiny streets, picturesque cottages and two sandy beaches perfect for picnics.
Getting there
- On the map This luxury self-catering beach cottage is set in the pretty village of Gorran Haven in South Cornwall.
- By car From London, take the M4 toward Bath, the M5 South and the A30 to Cornwall and follow the directions provided to the property. The journey time is around four and a half hours.
- By train The nearest train station is St Austell. Travel Cornwall service number 471 runs three journeys between St Austell Trinity Street (approx. 10 minutes' walk from the railway station) to Gorran Churchtown.
- By Plane Newquay airport is 23 miles away, with a journey time of around 45 minutes.
“The constantly changing view of the bay from the cottage is stunning, mesmerising and magical. Having the ability to relax and enjoy the proximity to the sea, while in your own garden is what makes this cottage so special. Listening to the waves while you fall asleep will guarantee sweet dreams too.”
Located on the site of the original fort that was built to defend the small hamlet of Gorran Haven, the cottage itself is shown on the 1841 Ordnance Survey map. You will see pictures of the cottage wherever you see pictures of the village, from any decade. It's part and parcel of the unchanged nature of Gorran Haven; a quintessential reminder of times gone by.
With its distinctive Cornish chimney, The Spyglass is one of the oldest properties on Little Perhaver Point and enjoys uninterrupted sea views. Each room is designed with comfort in mind so you can while away the hours watching the changing tides, listening to the waves lapping at the wall below or simply breathing in the intoxicating sea air.
Several original features remain, including the fireplace, which houses the welcoming wood burner in the lounge. The cottage has an enchanting timeless feel, and with mesmerising views, it is the perfect hideaway in which to relax and enjoy nature and the seascape.
The Cooper Family
Discover the best destinations, experiences and restaurants to visit during your stay in Gorran Haven. A larger selection of recommendations will be available in the property's digital house book.
To See
The Cornish Riviera
Cornwall´s south coast has long been dubbed the ´Cornish Riviera´, a tribute to the verdant landscape, sheltered coves and crystal-clear waters that make it so unique. With a little savvy, you can discover quieter, lesser-known areas within.
To Do
Mevagissey Feast Week
This wonderful village festival has been celebrated since 1754. Look forward to treasure hunts, boat building presentations on the harbour, Bhangra dance, Dhol drumming, street food stalls and, of course, the finale carnival procession.
To Do
Gardens
If gardens are your passion then you must visit the world renowned Eden Project, less than 15 miles away, and the wonderfully mysterious Lost Gardens of Heligan, only 5 miles away, with its 200 acres of magnificent flora-filled creations.
To Eat
Cakebreads, Gorran Haven
In the summer, the dog-friendly Cakebreads offers a full breakfast and lunch menu, as well as relaxed al fresco dining next to the bakery on Friday evenings. In winter, the patio heater is a particularly welcome treat.
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.
Is the garden enclosed?
No, the outside space isn't enclosed and leads directly down to the beach below.
Is the beach dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Gorran Haven beach all year, but must be kept on leads between Easter Sunday and 30th September.
How far away is the parking space?
Whilst luggage can be dropped off outside, the carpark is a five minute walk away.
Below are a selection of features in which The Spyglass 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
The best cottages to rent in Cornwall
House & Garden
June 2023Wild at heart
25 Beautiful Homes
August 2026The entrepreneurs cashing in on the £1.3tn wellness holiday boom
The Telegraph
August 20265 waterside stays to book
Country Living
August 2026Time to cool off
The Times
July 2026Broad horizons
Harper´s Bazaar
July 2026The Times art critic’s favourite holiday homes with artful interiors
The Times
July 20265 beach houses to book
Country Living
July 2026
Related collections
Collections > Waterside living > UK > Cornwall > Gorran Haven > The Spyglass
