The Engine House

• Sleeps: 8
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 2
• Minimum stay: 3 nights

Described by Grand Designs’ Kevin McCloud as “one of the more successful conversions I have seen”, The Engine House is a unique, Grade II-listed retreat that oozes charm and character.

An integral part of Cornish heritage, the striking Porthtowan building was originally constructed when Cornwall was the mining centre of the world, famous for its production of tin, copper, and silver.

Now transformed into a welcoming coastal retreat, the clever reverse-level layout means you can enjoy sublime ocean-beach views from the relaxed living space at the top, or when the sun is shining, out on the huge wrap-around deck.

Plenty of love and attention has gone into The Engine House’s conversion, in which carefully preserved historic elements blend beautifully with modern home comforts.  

Solid stone walls and beamed ceilings evoke a sense of travelling gently back in time, yet all the conveniences you might expect are on hand, including a microwave and a dishwasher, a TV and DVD player, and even a washing machine (which is handy, when you’re so close to the beach!)

You’ll also find a wealth of comfy spaces to snuggle up in, from cosy beds and sofas, to a hammock that’s perfectly positioned next to a top-floor window.  

Oh, and there are two bathrooms to choose from, too: a shower wet-room for morning freshen-ups, and a family bathroom for indulgent bubble-soaks. Whichever you opt for, there’ll be a stack of fluffy, freshly-laundered towels waiting for you afterwards.

At a glance

• A fascinating Grade II-listed retreat, steeped in Cornish mining heritage and perfectly positioned in the village of Porthtowan, moments from the Atlantic Ocean.
• The retreat has featured on TV numerous times, including Grand Designs and Homes by the Sea, with positive reviews.
• The reverse-level layout means you can savour magnificent beach views from the top-floor living space, or out on the vast wrap-around deck.
• There are three bedrooms – two doubles and one twin – plus a double-extending daybed in the lounge, to sleep 6-8 guests.
• Take a walk along the South West Coast Path and explore ‘Poldark country’, indulge in swimming and watersports, or take in a round of golf.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Large Groups
• Seaside Breaks

More information

Whip up tasty meals in the kitchen, or al fresco feasts with the wood-fired pizza oven on that stunning wrap-around deck. Just add a glass of your favourite tipple, and you’ll have everything you need to help you savour incredible scenes of the sun melting into the Atlantic horizon.

When it’s finally time to turn in, take your pick from two double bedrooms and a cosy twin (there’s a double-extending daybed in the living space too, just in case you couldn’t bear to leave anybody off the holiday list!)

What to do after a dreamy night’s slumber? Well, since you’re right by the sea, you could always start with your favourite watersport, or by taking an invigorating dip. The nearby Victorian tidal pool is a highlight – described on Robson Green’s Wild Swimming Adventure as “perfect”.

Get delightfully lost in ‘Poldark country’, with spectacular walks along the South West Coastal Path, or spoil a good walk with a round of golf! Designed by James Braid, Perranporth Golf Course offers excellent links and excellent views, from its stunning location on the cliff tops.

However you choose to spend the day, its highlight is sure to be coming ‘home’ to The Engine House.  

(“I could definitely live here!” Charlie Luxton exclaimed when viewing the house on Channel Four’s Homes by the Sea – and we challenge you not to feel the same!)

Things to note

Sadly not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Please bring your own beach towels.