The Engine House
Holiday Cottage in Portscatho
Sleeps 4 - Bedrooms 2 - From £472
Property Details
The main property sits in 4 acres of land, the Engine House has its own enclosed garden area. The coastal path passes close to the end of the drive and from here you can explore one of the most unspoilt sections of Cornwall's dramatic coastline, with magnificent promontories, secluded coves and stunning beaches. It is a haven for walkers as there are miles of footpaths to explore. It is also only a short walk down the hill to Place, where during the summer season a little passenger ferry will take you across the bay to St Mawes from where you can catch ferries to Falmouth & Truro. This is true Cornwall at its most wild and beautiful. The coastline here is owned by the National Trust and the views all around the headland are fantastic. The beach at Towan (1 mile away) rarely gets very busy and the waters are clear and excellent for swimming.
Accommodation
Ground Floor: Entrance porch leading to the living area with comfortable chairs, woodburning stove and delightful bay window seat with views out to sea. The fully fitted kitchen leads off, there is a shower room with double size cubicle, WC and hand basin and rear lobby with a useful boot locker and drying space. Oak stairs to:
First Floor: Landing leading to main double room with 5' bed and sea views. Main bathroom has bath with handheld shower and WC. Twin bedroom with 3' beds.
External: A large enclosed lawned garden with a patio area around the building, heavy duty swing set and a separate drive to main property. There is a BBQ but you will need to provide your own charcoal.
Facilities & Services
Kitchen: Electric Aga, granite worktops & Belfast sink. Integrated fridge with freezer compartment, combi-microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, toaster and kettle. There is also a small freezer in the utility room. Lounge: Wood burning stove, TV, and DVD. WiFi is available at the property.
Miscellaneous
Bed linen, towels, electricity and oil fired central heating are all included. There is space for 2 cars on the drive. Regrettably, no dogs are allowed and smoking is not permitted. Regrettably no children under the age of 3.
General Booking Information
Arrival / Departure is a Saturday.
Short breaks are available during quieter periods.
£200 security deposit pre-authorised on your card.
Property Location
The Engine House is about 8 minutes drive along the St Anthony Headland from Portscatho, close to the little hamlet of Bohortha. The beaches at Towan and St Anthony are only a short drive away (about 1mile). Please do have a look at the location map for a more detailed idea of the position.
Property Reviews
4.2 out of 5
Nice location. Helpful owners.
Reviewed on 03/11/2021Enjoyed our week at The Engine House. However the fridge was a) too small for a family self catering when there are very little shopping possibilities in the locality, and b) broke while we were there. A new one was purchased quickly but it was even smaller! Fresh food transferred to a temporary fridge while we were out spoiled on the cooling element at the back of it. The kitchen was not particularly well equipped. The beds were very comfortable. The bathroom washbasin could do with more light. Small things like toilet roll holders were absent. The water pressure in the bath was non existent and the tap dripped. We could not turn it off. New washers required!
5 out of 5
Beautiful lactation
Reviewed on 16/09/2021We had an amazing time. Just what we needed Jude and Steve were lovely and helpful. Hole to be able to stay again soon. Thank you
5 out of 5
Lovely cottage located in one of the best places in Cornwall!
Reviewed on 03/08/2021Our stay at the Engine House was great. Jude and Steve were the perfect hosts - friendly and approachable but also valued our privacy and the importance of us enjoying our holiday (Brian the dog was a bit of a sweetheart too!). The house offered beautiful views across the surrounding countryside and sea and the tranquility of the garden, sitting outside to eat on an evening, rounded off each day perfectly. We also found the layout of the house inside worked very well - cosy and comfortable and having a bath, in addition to a shower, was a real treat. Although we stayed in July I would expect the house to feel extremely cosy in the Autumn/Winter too. We absolutely love the Roseland peninsula as it's relatively quiet and the coastal paths and walks are full of wildlife. The beaches around St Anthony Head are also beautiful and we were incredibly lucky with the weather the week we stayed so were able to visit three of the local beaches - Towan, Porthbeor, Molunan - all of them incredibly nice. The coastal path to St Anthony Head, along the Percuil river and back to Towan is definitely worth going on - we actually broke it up into two parts (as was so hot to do the full walk at once) as the location of the house (Bohortha) is halfway. Other good local walks are Towan to Portscatho and back, with a stop off for food at the Plume of Feathers in Portscatho. Church at St Just in Roseland is also worth a visit as well as Lamorran garden in St Mawes and the NT garden Trelissick. Kayaking from St Mawes was good fun too. All in all, had a fab week's holiday and wouldn't hesitate in returning to the Engine House when we next visit Cornwall.
5 out of 5
A wonderful stay
Reviewed on 29/07/2021This property was perfect for our little family. No fuss, no frills but just perfect. A little cottage on a hill on a very well kept property. We really enjoyed being in a rural area and yet could easily wonder down to Place Ferry to pop to Saint Mawes. We thank the owners for their pleasant demeanor.
5 out of 5
We had a wonderful stay. Great location. Quiet and peaceful. Can't wait to go back.
Reviewed on 15/07/2021We had a wonderful stay. Great location. Quiet and peaceful. Well equipped cottage, we had everything we needed. Lovely hosts. Can't wait to go back.
5 out of 5
Wonderful place with fantastic views
Reviewed on 08/07/2021We had such a lovely week in the Engine House. It has everything you want ( apart from the aga!) and beautiful garden complete with loungers. Sitting room has a wonderful view down to the sea. Beautifully furnished with comfy sofa's and a wood burner. The Roseland is so beautiful with so many lovely walks straight from the door. Great pubs and lovely cream tea places.
4.5 out of 5
Great location excellent walking
Reviewed on 20/05/2021Great cottage and excellent area to be in. Wildlife seen locally seals, deer, Buzzards, and loads of birds. Had a great walk around the headland with a boat trip to St Mawes, Fish and Chips there then back on the ferry to carry on the walk. Sadly this holiday was booked for last year but we went into covid lockdown. Holiday was moved to this year but 1st May meaning the only place you could sit indoors to have a drink and a meal was our cottage as the rules were not relaxed until 17th May. I fully recommend this holiday venue, if you like a remote place to stay without any traffic noises, enjoy walking, seeing wildlife, great views then this is a holiday for you. Coastal path is one field away. Take binoculars. When travelling around the area set your sat nav to avoid ferries as we ended up at a couple of wharfs doing a 3 point turn. The only plus point about the lock down for us was the roads were nearly empty. Though I would think normally it would be much busier and some roads are very narrow. Owners are very friendly as is Brian the dog.
5 out of 5
Amazing cottage getaway to a stunning spot in Cornwall with incredible views.
Reviewed on 06/05/2021Jude and Steve were excellent hosts. They really made us feel welcome right from the outset with their friendly welcome. They were always available if we needed anything. The cottage was far more than we could have hoped for. Tidy, clean, had all the kitchen appliances we needed and more. The views are incredible and the local beach was great for early morning swims! We honestly couldn't recommend this property and it's owners more highly and will definitely be going back!
5 out of 5
A delightful holiday!
Reviewed on 02/10/2020The Engine House is a lovely, comfortable cottage in a beautiful situation with views over the sea. We enjoyed walking along the coastal path to St. Antony Head, with its wonderful views across to St. Mawes and the riverside walk from Place Quay to Porth Farm and Towan Beach. Jude and Steve made us so welcome - we thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Engine House.
5 out of 5
Perfect
Reviewed on 29/11/2019A lovely tucked away location very close to the coast path. We stocked up on provisions and stayed for a winter hideaway. It was warm, cosy, beautifully furnished, well equipped and comfortable. I would highly recommend.
5 out of 5
Lovely cottage in a great location
Reviewed on 26/10/2019Five stars for the Engine House! Cosy, comfortable and well-equipped cottage with beautifull sea views. We really enjoyed our autum holidays in the Engine house despite of some rain-drops....! Ragni and Frank
3.7 out of 5
Wonderful location
Reviewed on 05/10/2019I find it very difficult to review as we do not often self cater so have little to compare with, particularly in terms of value for money. There were good aspects and some not so good. Location is superb and owners very friendly, and there is plenty of outdoor space. The sitting /dining room is spacious and comfortable .The only bedroom we used was small and the bed not particularly comfortable. One of the windows was impossible to close which made it draughty and noisy on a windy night.The bathroom and shower room were also small, the bathroom having a sloping ceiling. There was a problem with the central heating/hot water boiler when we arrived which was never totally resolved in spite of the ownerA?s best endeavours. To summarise, we enjoyed our stay, helped by the lovely sunny weather, but would probably look for a bit more luxury if we decided to go again.
4.3 out of 5
A luxurious hideaway in a gloriously isolated location!
Reviewed on 05/09/2019We stayed here with our two children stayed here for a week in the summer. The property was exactly what we were after: a comfortable cottage in a very quiet location close to the sea. The property is finished to a very high standard and is very well equipped. There are swings in the garden that our children made good use of. The owners live next door and are very friendly. We had never used an Aga before but once we got used to it there was no problem on that front. The location is idyllic and the property is close to good beaches and the St Anthony's Head lighthouse/former military battery (a National Trust property) so it is ideal for walks and rambling. The walk to St Anthony's Head lighthouse is highly recommended. There are narrow country roads to get to the property, but that is Cornwall. The closest grocery shop is 15 minutes drive away (Portscatho) so one needs to plan provisioning in advance. My only slight issue was that I found the entrance to the property's parking area to be tight, so driving in and out and turning the car around was tricky. All in all though a fantastic property and we had a lovely stay.
4.8 out of 5
Amazing setting for beautiful Cornish holiday
Reviewed on 30/06/2019Our stay at the Engine House was all that we hoped that it would be: beautiful setting, stunning views, for a quiet and peaceful holiday. We enjoyed relaxing in this beautiful cottage, cooking on the Aga, visiting stunning beaches and getting the small boat to St Mawes.
5 out of 5
Beautiful accommodation in a beautiful setting
Reviewed on 13/06/2019We were greeted on arrival by the owner who was welcoming, friendly and informative. The house is in an amazing location with wonderful views, and was very comfortable. It was well equipped and had everything we needed. We very much enjoyed the area and the house is close to the ferry stop to St Mawes where you can access the ferry to Falmouth and other attractions. We would recommend the accommodation without hesitation and would definitely like to return.
5 out of 5
Hate having to give reviews
Reviewed on 30/05/2019The place was great, the owners very helpful when required. Discrete and stayed out of the way for the rest of the time. Unfortunately I hate having to provide reviews. If it had been poor I would have complained at the time to the people who could do something about it. There was no need as the place was grand, so hence does not really need a review other than just to tick the boxes.
4.7 out of 5
Very good - let down by dishwasher
Reviewed on 16/05/2019All very good as advertised and an ideal location except..... The property is let down by the dishwasher which is very old and needs replacing. The bottom basket has lost two of the required 8 rollers which makes it very difficult (impossible with one hand) to push it in and out once the basket is loaded with crockery. We would have preferred a modern cooker rather than the old AGA which is not easy to use.
4.8 out of 5
A hidden haven
Reviewed on 13/05/2019Firstly, this has a lovely view of the sea and is fabulous for walkers. A very peaceful location with owners on hand but not intrusive. A couple of secluded coves meant that this was a lovely place to get away. The property was clean and well maintained. We did find the Aga a challenge at first. Wifi signal was good. Also the roads weren't too bad for passing places. We've stayed in places with much narrower access! The boat ferry was a surprise at first (depending on which direction you go in) but on the whole a good place to be able to access areas of Cornwall.
4.8 out of 5
A delightful cottage off the beaten track
Reviewed on 20/10/2018We thoroughly enjoyed our 2 weeks at the cottage. Within 5 miles (as the crow flies!) there is plenty we can see and enjoy: beaches in small coves, foot paths along the coast and inland, picturesque villages and churches, historic buildings... We cannot not mention the welcome, friendliness and helpfulness of Judy and Steve.
4.3 out of 5
Engine House Review
Reviewed on 05/09/2018A wonderful cottage in a beautiful location with such friendly and caring hosts! I would highly recommend this place as a quiet and picturesque base to explore that part of Cornwall.
4.8 out of 5
Lovely Location
Reviewed on 20/07/2018Lovely location. It takes a great deal for us to return to somewhere three times as it has to live up to The Cotswolds which is where is where we live and is quite beautiful, but the location has a different beauty, as in its remoteness, but with out feeling cut off. The sea breezes were especially appreciated this year. Thank you Jude for the rock cakes and hope your open garden goes well as it's beautiful.
5 out of 5
Perfect for an escape
Reviewed on 05/07/2018If you're looking for action and a wide range of eateries and music venues. This is NOT for you. This is the absolute best place we've ever stayed because what we need is seaviews, quiet and walks. The ferry is only a short walk away if you fancy a trip to St Mawes or Falmouth, but honestly. Just sitting in the garden looking at the ships sail by and then strolling along to the beach. That's enough for us. And the hosts are incredible. If you are a dapper hand with an Aga you're in LUCK. This is slow living at its best. Calm, meditative stay Xx
4.2 out of 5
Beautiful Location
Reviewed on 16/01/2018Lovely location. A little remote, which is what we like, sea view, lovely gardens - lots of space (inside and out) But I have to say missed the cakes upon arrival which we had in the summer. Loved learning to cook with an Aga. Only niggles are the mirror in the upstairs bathroom is a little too high, and things seem to be screwed down (lamps in double bedroom) Could perhaps do with another lamp in the large living room either floor or on a table (don't see the point of one being right next to the tv) But still love staying here.
5 out of 5
Just wonderful.
Reviewed on 12/10/2017Our stay could not have been better. We didnA?t want to leave will certainly go again. Very peaceful, didnA?t need to leave the house there was so much to watch going by on the Ocean.
4.8 out of 5
The Engine House, Portscatho
Reviewed on 04/10/2017We had a lovely stay at the Engine House. Amazing location with stunning views. We definitely hope to return.
4 out of 5
Coastal Path Cottage
Reviewed on 04/10/2017Cottage with stunning coastal views situated separately but within owners grounds. Be prepared for long narrow lanes (with passing places) mainly between Portscatho (about 5 miles distance) to reach property. Lovely quiet location, large private garden great for stargazing on clear nights. Within easy reach of St Mawes also Falmouth and Truro via King Harry ferry. Right on South West coastal path with great walks to nearby unspoilt beaches. Comfortable cosy detached cottage with attentive friendly owners.
5 out of 5
Stunning place to stay
Reviewed on 20/07/2017It was our first visit to the Roseland and it was stunning. The Engine House has amazing sea views and is close to the SW coastal path with lovely walks to St Anthony Head (1.5 miles) where you get amazing views of St Mawes, Falmouth and the Lizard.The house was very clean and welcoming with plenty of room. Steve and Jude were very helpful and friendly and gave us tips on places to visit. The garden is large with plenty of room to sit and relax.Would strongly recommend a visit and we shall be returning.
5 out of 5
Wonderful
Reviewed on 10/07/2017A beautiful cottage with amazing views! We stayed here recently and it really is a lovely setting, very comfortable and the owners were very welcoming. Our children loved the swings in the garden too! Thanks for a wonderful stay.
5 out of 5
Away From It All
Reviewed on 18/06/2017Peaceful cottage, with spectacular sea views from the cottage and garden. A great place to just unwind and relax. Close to coastal path for beautiful walks.
5 out of 5
What a view!
Reviewed on 16/04/2017We booked the engine house because of the stunning views in the pictures. The reality was even better. Amazing sea views from all aspects of this property including from the beautiful garden. Coastal walks were on our doorstep. The Roseland peninsula offers such tranquility. If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle this is the place. Yet the short ferry ride to st mawes brings amenities to your stay. We highly recommend this cottage and the owners are lovely.
Property Floorplans
