Glebe Cottage

• A cosy cottage near the South West Coast Path

• Close to the Helford River, on a quiet lane at the edge of a village

• Walk to beaches and the beautiful Glendurgan Garden, filled with exotic plants in its temperate climate

Glebe Cottage is on the edge of the pretty village of Mawnan Smith, near the mouth of the Helford River. Once a rectory barn, this romantic old building has masses of character, including a galleried landing that looks down into a beamed, open-plan living area. 

The South West Coast Path is just 150 metres away. Follow the path west for scenic views along the Helford River, with small beaches like Glebe and Durgan to discover. Heading along the coast path in the opposite direction will lead you northward to the sandy beach at Maenporth, about an hour’s walk away. The National Trust cares for over 300 acres of countryside and coastline near the cottage, and the money you spend on your holiday will help conserve the landscape and paths in the area.

You’ll have free entry to National Trust places during your stay, including Glendurgan Garden. This temperate garden meets the coast path in Durgan village, just over a mile's walk from Glebe Cottage, and is filled with exotic plants. Hydrangeas bloom here in summer, while tree ferns and giant gunnera create a jungle-like feel in the sheltered valley. There’s an ancient cherry laurel maze that's been entertaining visitors for nearly 200 years, plants from as far as New Zealand, and a tea-house.

Trelissick is only a 25-minute drive away, with 300 acres of parkland and a striking house with neoclassical columns that overlooks the River Fal. Further afield, Godolphin is 20 miles away, and you can drive to the dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and white sandy beaches of the Lizard peninsula. The Wildlife Watchpoint at Lizard Point is a great place to spot seals, Cornish choughs, seabirds and sometimes even dolphins and whales.

Falmouth is less than five miles away from the cottage, with shops, restaurants, harbourside walks and a castle. There’s also a golf club by the coast, on the outskirts of town.