Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours!
If you are looking for a wonderful spot and enjoy kayaking on the water, then you will love Rock Cottage. The week commencing Saturday 23rd May is up for grabs! Book before it's too late.
Rock Cottage Cornwall is a 16th century traditional Cornish property which sits completely alone in one acre of private grounds within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It has a riverside woodland which leads to the jetty and private foreshore where our sturdy rowing dinghy 'Peggy' is moored during the holiday season.
The large terraced garden hugs the two borders of the spectacular and ever-changing Mawgan Creek of the Helford River. The view is amazing! For those who love the outdoor life, you will witness abundant water and garden birds with fishing, kayaking, rowing, sailing, paddle boarding as well as wild swimming all possible from Rock Cottage. Children will have great fun crab fishing. Bring your kayaks or canoes with you as these my be stored and launched from our large jetty.
Parking is directly outside the property and is solely for up to two of our guests' vehicles. No neighbouring properties within sight or sound!
This well appointed 'home away from home' has all you need for a relaxing and comfortable stay and with full central heating by radiators, Rock Cottage is welcoming whatever the season and accommodates up to six persons in total.
The kitchen/diner has a picturesque view of the garden, river, surrounding fields and sessile oak woodland. It is fully equipped with a new AEG steam oven and washer/dryer, Smeg ceramic hob, 60/40 LEC fridge/freezer, the latest Bosch dishwasher with smart technology and a Panasonic microwave oven. You will find everything clean, working and in its place.
On the ground floor of the cottage, is the newly renovated bathroom. This is beautifully tiled with underfloor electric heating, an electric shower over a large bath, toilet and a built-in wash hand basin. This room also serves the Garden room guests.
Step into the fully carpeted and beamed lounge with its thick and original cob walls. There are two cushioned window seats, quirky walls and alcoves, a copper canopied inglenook housing an electric wood burner, modern and very comfortable soft furnishings, an oak sideboard, table and chairs complete with wall lighting and ship's lantern. For entertainment there is an ipod dock music system, LED Smart TV, DVD player, stacks of games and puzzles as well as a great selection of Cornish novels, including many books relating to Cornish culture and maps to help you plan your outings.
At the far end of the lounge is the open tread wooden staircase. This has a short wall-mounted handrail and leads to the landing, children's and master bedrooms. These two rooms have a fabulous view of the river, are well furnished, comfortable and have top quality beds, mattresses and linen.
Ten paces from the front door is the fully carpeted Garden room. This is set up for adults or teenagers only. It is arranged with two single beds which can be zip and linked to form a fabulous 6ft, when requested by a couple. You will wake up to a marvellous view from this room which is complimented with white New England style furniture and a 40" wall mounted TV and an easy chair.
On the patio is the new outdoor dining table and chairs with parasol, recliners and a drinks table. For a different aspect, there are two more seating areas in the garden, and down by the water there is a large picnic table set under the shade of the trees. Here, you can get up close to the water birds and watch the fish as they circle to feed.
Our boat 'Peggy' is included in the rent. She is moored on a running line from Easter until late October, tide and weather permitting. At 3.5M long, she is ideal for four persons. We supply lifejackets in various sizes, crabbing lines for children as well as a Tide Table to plan your activities.
Our rates are fully inclusive of boat and life jackets, bed linen, towels, tea towels, bath mats, BT superfast fibre broadband (wifi), heating oil, electricity, luxury toiletries and dishwasher tablets, etc. For a baby we can supply a travel cot, highchair and changing mat for a small supplement. If you wish to bring a dog, there is an extra charge. Please read and agree to our Terms & Conditions which contain details regarding limitations with a pet.
Master Bedroom - One king size bed (5ft) Children's Bedroom - Two single beds (2ft 6" wide) Garden Room - Two single beds (3ft wide) can be linked to form a super king sized bed.
Within the village of Mawgan is a shop, church and The Ship Inn pub with restaurant. By foot it is no more than fifteen minutes. If you venture in the opposite direction towards St Martin, you can visit Gear Farm pasty shop, the Prince of Wales and further on the Gwella Dairy for their homemade ice cream. Helford village is a short drive away where you can take a boat ferry across the river and visit Trebah Gardens.
The location makes it easy to explore the Lizard Peninsula including the wonderful Kynance Cove. Sandy beaches, quaint fishing coves, coastal path walks, pubs, restaurants, art galleries, numerous gardens, tin mines, museums, boat and fishing trips are all accessible. At nearby Gweek is the Seal Sanctuary and Helston Town is only 10 minutes by car.
You will make many memories when you holiday at Rock Cottage since it offers something for all age groups. We look forward to welcoming you to our family owned property and sharing this delightful area of Cornwall with you.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Strictly No Smoking or Vaping inside the property
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Extra persons may not visit/stay/use the facilities. Number of persons is as agreed at the time of the booking.
No smoking or vaping inside the property.
Sorry but we no longer accept pets through this website.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 5922
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Helston
Located in Helston, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Marconi Centre and Poldark Mine are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit The Old Cider Barn Arts and Crafts Centre and Trevaskis Farm. Travelling with kids? Consider Bonython Estate Gardens and One2Eleven. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and cave exploring.
Is Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours! pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours!?
As of 13 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours! on 27 Jun, 2026 start from S$387, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours!?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Waterside 16c Cottage Helford River, private parking, view, boat, no neighbours! located?
This family-friendly Helston cottage is located on the waterfront, steps from Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within 6 mi (10 km) of Bonython Estate Gardens and One2Eleven. Flambards and Potager Garden are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Peaceful, full of Birdlife, walking and swimming heaven.
Anna D.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept, 2022
Thank you Anna.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Angie P.
21 May, 2018
Perfect Cottage, Stunning Views and Ideal Hosts!
Our holiday to Rock Cottage was perfect in every way; from the glorious setting on the river, to the cosy cottage with all mod cons topped off with lovely hosts who give a warm welcome and willingness to help in any way. And what a lovely bonus to have a rowboat to take out on the river. It really is a very special place and we can’t wait to get back there!
Angie P.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
I'm so pleased you had a wonderful stay and thank you for being such lovely guests. Looking forward to welcoming you back next year. xx
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Bridget S.
31 Aug, 2011
Well equipped cottage in stunning location
Everything you could need in the cottage, and a stunning view. Lots to do very close by (if you want to leave the house !) - coastal walks, beach, surfing, national trust gardens, sailing, amongst others. We had a wonderful holiday.
Bridget S.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
Very helpful comments, and thank you Bridget for the compliments. We are so pleased you all enjoyed a wonderful two week holiday at Rock Cottage, which you had booked in 2009. Thank you once again for choosing our property.
This property and location is perfect it is exactly like the pictures if not better. Linda and Robin are the perfect hosts and do everything to make your stay special. “ Peggy” is a dream, and definitely worth going out in her to see the sunrise. It is truly an experience not to be missed.
Binnie A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jul, 2023
We were delighted to welcome you to Rock Cottage and so pleased you had a fabulous stay. Thank you so much for your great review. Do come and see us again soon!
Rock Cottage is a lovely property in an amazing location. The views out of the back of the cottage are absolutely stunning. We had a wonderful time walking the lizard coastline and playing on the beaches. The kids had hours of fun in the boat and crabbing from the jetty. The cottage was well equipped and everything well thought through for our stay. I’d highly recommend staying here
Paul S.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jun, 2022
Thank you Paul very much for your great review. We are so pleased you all had a wonderful time at Rock Cottage. Kind regards Linda & Robin
Verified
8/10 Good
Lisa B.
14 Oct, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Holiday
Overall really good experience but would have benefited from knowing how close it was to a road which is quite busy especially early in the morning.
Lisa B.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
The benefit of having Google maps on an advertisement is to provide the guest with the location and of course show them the exact position of the property. I can only assume this guest may not have seen this before making her booking. The 'road' in question is unclassified, narrow, follows the contour of the creek and used mainly by the locals. Unfortunately, building work taking place in the nearby village has, in the short term, increased the number of vehicles.
A unique holiday cottage. Spotlessly clean, beautifully situated and clearly a labour of love by the owners, who make the cottage even more welcoming by the little touches they add - teacups and cake waiting on your arrival, and fresh flowers in every room. At last the internet is good for something!
Rock Cottage is truly a special place! A beautiful location, spotlessly clean, with the most comfortable beds & everything you could need in the cottage itself (as well as use of Peggy, the rowing boat!). As a family with two children, aged 8 & 10, plus grandparents who stayed in the beautiful garden room, we had the most wonderful week. Thank you Linda & Robin!
Clare D.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Sept, 2022
It was a pleasure to welcome you and your family to Rock Cottage and we are so pleased you had a wonderful holiday. Thank you very much for your splendid review and we do hope to see you again!
Really lovely spot, and lovely cottage. Direct access to Mawgan creek a real benefit for us to use our kayaks as well as the grandparents using Peggy.
A couple of BBQs throughout the stay, but every evening, bar the last, sat outside with a stunning backdrop.
Lots of wooded grounds to explore for children
The cottage and annex (Garden Cottage) were pristine.
Our stay will stay long in the memory.
Neil C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
We are delighted to receive your 5* review Neil and thank you for this. As you mention, having direct water access is a real bonus especially for those who love to be on the water. So pleased you and your family all had a great time. See you again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Loveday J.
13 Apr, 2019
Idyllic creekside cottage
We had a lovely week at Rock Cottage. The weather was kind. We kayaked on the creek and took out “Peggy” the cottages own rowing boat. The local pub that is within walking distance serves excellent food and we ate there twice. There is also a good local store in the village. There is loads to see and do on the Lizard. A great base for a fantastic Cornish holiday.
Loveday J.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
We are delighted to receive your review Loveday which is our 100th on HomeAway! Thank you very much for this. It was a pleasure to welcome you all to Rock Cottage and hopefully you will return to this unique spot on the Mawgan Creek of the Helford River.
Fantastic cottage at the end of Mawgan Creek.
Own Jetty. Rowing boat. Privacy. Birdlife. Seals. Paddle boarded to our hearts delight. Stunning view from the back garden. Helston and Porthleven near enough to visit.
Warren C.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug, 2022
Thank you Warren for your splendid review. We are very pleased to receive this and it's great to know you and your family made the most of what Rock Cottage and its fantastic surroundings have to offer.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
jon B.
30 Oct, 2018
a chilled break with everchanging view to die for
Top location at the top of Mawgan Creek - cottage with its own decked landing stage. Family spent the week in racing kayaks and SUPs exploring the river between Helford and Gweek. felt like gone back in time - felt connected with the flood and ebb of the tide. Sheltered, great birdlife wildlife and amazing sunsets on the water. Tidal creek dries out at low water but we got in & out inside 3hrs either side of HW. Recommended. Seal sanctuary at Gweek also worth visit- food at Ship Mawgan fab
jon B.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
Thank you Jon and family for your much appreciated review. It was lovely to meet you and really good to hear that you loved kayaking on the creeks of the Helford River.
Lovely cottage with a lot of history and atmosphere. Very comfortable and well equipped - we used the bbq almost every night. It was beautiful out on the creek In the boat. I also swam in the creek a few times (in a wetsuit - but the water seemed to get warmer as the week went on, or Ingot used to it!). If you get tired of watching the changing vista of the creek - the tide coming in and out, the fish and the bird life - there is plenty to do within a 30 min drive: coastal walks, gorgeous beaches and pretty fishing villages. Be prepared for single track roads, rough car parking steep slopes though! A great place to stay.
Amanda H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Jul, 2022
Thank you Amanda for your splendid review on Rock Cottage and for pointing out that there is lots to see and do in the area. We hope to see you all again in the not too distant future.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Martin B.
13 Oct, 2013
Rock cottage retreat
If you are looking for a private retreat in a well appointed and comfortable traditional cornish cottage, Rock Cottage is hard to beat. Linda and Robin, the owners, have clearly put in a huge amount of time and effort in making this a great place to stay and maintaing a high standard for their guests. It seems to have every home comfort you could need. I spent a lot of time watching the ever changing scenery and wild life, day and night. There are lots of lovely places to visit within the Lizard and all within easy driving distances. Of course, there is lots for walkers as well. I enjoyed my stay and was very impressed. Thanks Linda and Robin.
Martin B.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
We really appreciate receiving another great review. Thank you so much for taking the time to write about your experience of staying in Rock Cottage.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
7 Apr, 2011
Heavenly View
The view. For me it was the view. It does not get any better than this. The feeling that it is all yours and you are its custodian.
Many thanks to Linda for allowing us to stay in her lovely cottage. Rarely have we stayed anywhere with such standards of cleanliness and the little welcoming touches were very much appreciated too.
If you want to 'get away from it all' then come to Rock Cottage; it allows you to do just that. Listen to the birds, the trees and the sound of silence.
My only regret was that I can't draw or paint because that view would be the subjects of all subjects.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
A superb review. We are most appreciative and thank you very much for taking the time to write about your recent holiday at Rock Cottage.
The Spring time is picturesque in the garden and along the shoreline, and the view never fails to please our guests. Hope to see you and your family again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Chris C.
29 Jul, 2013
Idyllic Creek-side Cottage
Rock Cottage is stunningly beautiful. The first view of the garden and the Mawgan Creek beyond was breath-taking, and the cottage itself a real home-from-home. We had everything we needed and a lot more besides. We enjoyed crabbing off the jetty and explored the creek in the rowing boat as far as Tremaine Quay. The wildlife in the creek is a joy to watch at all states of the tide. We were celebrating my wife's 50th birthday and could not have wished for a more peaceful location within easy reach of some fantastic beaches. Church Cove and Gunwalloe Fishing Cove were our favourites but we also visited Land's End, St Ives, Kynance Cove, Polurrian Beach and the tip of the Lizard. We would certainly recommend a visit to the Minack Theatre if you can fit it in - an experience not to missed. Thank you Linda and Robin for all your careful attention to detail and for making our stay so enjoyable.
Chris C.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
A splendid review. Thank you so much for this and for identifying all the great benefits Rock Cottage and this part of Cornwall has to offer future guests We are really pleased to hear your holiday was so enjoyable and hope to see you all again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
John H.
10 Sept, 2018
Perfect location
It's no exaggeration - you really do get these wonderful views sitting at the table outside, or even from the big window in the kitchen/breakfast room. We spent a good part of every morning and evening just gazing and looking at all the interesting birds, such as Redshanks, Curlew, Little Egrets, even an Osprey!
The cottage itself is immaculate. Everything is new or in very good condition, and it's all there - both filter and cafetiere for coffee, two ovens and a microwave, etc. etc. and lovely bedding.
The local pub has excellent food, but you really do need to book in advance. It's a 15 minute walk there, maybe a bit less on the way back as it is then downhill... And the village shop has a lot of excellent local produce.
The only possible downside to Rock Cottage is that there is only the one bathroom, downstairs. And if you are in the lovely annex bedroom you have to go across the little courtyard to reach it, but you do have the compensation of lovely views of the creek from your bed!
So thank you Linda and Robin, we really enjoyed our stay.
John H.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
It was a pleasure to meet you both and we are delighted you had a very enjoyable stay at Rock Cottage. Thank you so much for your much appreciated compliments, for being super guests and for taking the time to write a great review.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
28 Jul, 2010
If you want to get away from it all .....
This was our first visit to Rock Cottage and our wish to get away from it all was realised once we arrived at this delightful location. Even though the details provided give you some idea, it is not until you look out over the estuary that you realise what a beautiful place this is. The cottage was spotless and the owners made us feel very welcome, supplying some local ‘goodies’ which were very welcome. Flowers in all the rooms gives the cottage a very homely feel. Everything is provided and you only need to bring a change of clothes!
The views from the kitchen window particularly are a delight and it must be the best place to have your breakfast whilst watching ever changing scenery as the tide comes in and out, bringing with it a huge selection of birds, plus a pair of swans which seemed to patrol the creek on a daily basis! If the weather is good, eating outside is also a must and you may be lucky enough to share the garden with a visiting woodpecker or nuthatch, as well as the resident pheasants.
Rock Cottage is also well situated for visiting many attractions which are only a short distance. The Lizard Point is well worth a visit as is the little port of Porthleven, both only 20 minutes or so by car.
We had a lovely week and were very sad to leave – we hope to return one day soon!
Thank you Linda and family!
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
Thank you so much for this super review and your compliments. It is great to know that Rock Cottage has once again given our guests a thoroughly enjoyable holiday and we look forward very much to seeing you again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
21 May, 2008
Best Christmas Yet!
After years of doing Christmas at home with all its delights; overcooked sprouts, undercooked turkey, family punch ups, lop sided trees, and annadin extra! We decided to try something a bit different and we booked Rock Cottage for a week over the holiday period. My husband and I were joined by our daughter (21), our son and his girlfriend both are in their mid twenties. We did our last minute shopping on Christmas Eve in Taunton M&S. We spent an evening or two getting tipsy at the local pub (The ship.. I think) and giggling down the lanes on the way back. We ate Christmas lunch at the pub too; it was a real treat and not a soggy brussel sprout in sight! We wrapped up and went for long walks on various beaches including Church Cove which was a so invigorating. We lingered over breakfast each day just enchanted by the view from the window. When the kids got withdrawal symptoms and left us to head back to party in the big cities ( London and Birmingham), a couple of friends joined us and we did the same things all over again. The cottage is so lovely, and immaculate. Linda is brilliant and caring she took so much trouble to make sure we were comfortable. If there is a vacancy book it! You wont regret it!
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Aug, 2024
Christmas comes but once a year - however, we hope that these excellent Guests will return to Rock Cottage in the future, and once again enjoy some of the many wonderful places that the Lizard peninsula offers.
During the festive season, it is worth visiting Mousehole where a fabulous display of Christmas lights adorn the fishing harbour and hillside. The City of Truro and Helston also have a fine display and many of the small villages make the effort too.
Even during December, the weather can be fine and taking an after lunch stroll on a pretty deserted beach, is quite exhilarating! For either a leisurely lunch or dinner, there are a number of fine restaurants to choose from, and all within a short drive or walking distance of Rock Cottage. However, whatever you decide to do, the cottage is a warm and welcoming retreat at the end of the day.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Carolyn Z.
19 May, 2017
A Magical Place
We are a retired couple from the USA. who found the property description to be accurate - even more private and charming than anticipated.
Rock Cottage is a beautiful, private property. There are no neighbors in sight! The charming cottage is well-decorated, well-equipped - kitchen utensils/library - and well-maintained to a high standard. My husband says the cottage is mechanically up-to-date and to a high standard. Because of these things, we feel the rental rate is very reasonable.
The owners were nearby to answer any questions with kindness and helpfulness.
The cottage was so idyllic we had difficulty in leaving to sightsee. Even on rainy days the sitting room was warm and cozy.
The location is an easy in/out for day trips, yet it is secluded.
We didn't use Peggy, the dinghy, as much as we liked; however, the creek/river is magical and begs for discovery paddles.
We enjoyed a meal at the Prince of Wales in St. Martin. We were unable to dine at the local Ship Inn but enjoyed their frozen entrees (brand name Freshh) available at Mawgan Stores which is a treasure trove of goodies.
Helford River and its environs are an area of outstanding natural beauty and world class. Rock Cottage is a most comfortable way to enjoy it.
We would certainly recommend it to a friend or relative. And, we would certainly return to this special place and delightful cottage.
Carolyn Z.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr, 2020
We are absolutely thrilled to bits to receive your wonderful review which gives an excellent insight for anyone thinking about booking a holiday here. There is a great deal to do and see, and as you say, the location is an easy in/out for day trips, yet secluded.
Thank you Carolyn and Laddie so very much for taking time to write about your three week stay at Rock Cottage, and for your recommendation too. It really was a pleasure to meet you both and to learn also that you would certainly return to this special place.
Kind regards. Linda and Robin
What a fantastic property, I cannot recommend Rock Cottage highly enough! We had the most wonderful week here - everything written about it is 100% true but it's so much more than that.
Firstly, the cottage's location is ideal - despite being a very short drive/walk away from Mawgan village, the cottage itself is fantastically private and there's literally nobody in sight in any direction. It has, without question, the best view possible of the tidal river and the wonderfully gnarly trees that line it - we were mesmerised, no matter the time or the weather. The avid bird watcher among us was similarly thrilled by the fabulous variety of feathered friends that were continually present.
Secondly, the cottage itself is beautiful. It's in excellent condition and fabulously maintained. We were especially touched by the thoughtfulness of the welcoming scones, cream, home-made bread and many more treats that awaited us after a long journey to Cornwall - thank you so much Linda! Everything we needed was there and in addition there was plenty of space for all of our fulsome paraphernalia. The kitchen's vista is incredible and we spent a great deal of our time there, it really is the heart of the house. Every room in the house is just great, but the Garden Room in particular is also gorgeous and it too has the most spectacular view. Indeed, its being separate from the main cottage made it an ideal retreat for the 13-year old in our party!
Finally, the privacy of the cottage really is its selling point for us. There's a great deal of land attached to Rock Cottage, which is so much fun to explore. The main part of the garden is on a significant slope, but the very manageable steps, the charming stepping stones, the different levels, the well-placed benches, the fantastic jetty and the excitement of the neighbouring wood make it an outdoor wonderland. Being able to use Peggy the rowing boat was such a bonus, as was the crabbing equipment. Wetsuits are highly recommended when swimming, but this is true of all British waterways! Also, wellies are essential because of the mud when the tide is out.
There is no downside to Rock Cottage whatsoever - it's wonderful. The tides mean there's a limit on how much time you're able to spend in the water. Happily, however, the mud flats are gorgeous to look at and the plethora of stunning Cornish beaches are about 20 minutes' drive away, depending on which direction you choose. We'll definitely return!
Rhian M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2021
Such a fabulous review to receive; we feel very humble but so pleased to know that after many years of letting Rock Cottage, we are still delighting our guests. During these troubled times, the property is a haven to escape to and recharge one's spirits. We are grateful to Rhian for pointing out the many benefits of a holiday at Rock Cottage. Thank you and see you again!
A wonderful stay for 4 days in a fantastic cottage. The cottage was spotlessly clean with everything you need for a short or long holiday. The garden and views were stunning, it was very hard to drag ourselves away from the window..! The location was great for The Lizard and surrounding area, everything within a short drive. The owners are very friendly and provided excellent service before and during our stay. They made us feel very welcome we instantly relaxed on arrival. 5 Stars are not enough....!
Peter N.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Dec, 2021
We are absolutely delighted to receive your review on your recent stay at Rock Cottage. Thank you so very much and should you wish to return to this delightful part of Cornwall, you will always be more than welcome. Linda x
Friendly and easy.
The property was presented in an excellent and spotless condition.
We lacked for nothing.
The setting and location of this delightful cottage suited us and our dogs perfectly.
Giselle R.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Aug, 2021
Thank you very much Giselle for your review. I'm so pleased you all enjoyed a wonderful stay at Rock Cottage.
Rock Cottage is a beautiful home to relax and refresh yourself. The cottage is set in a very privileged position overlooking the creek where no other dwelling or human activity can be seen. You feel like you've got the entire valley (if that's what you call the view) to yourself and can't believe it is the most popular holiday destination in the country. We enjoyed a row in Peggy and the rise and fall of the tide, the cry and songs of the birds and the calming shades of greenery all around.
The cottage is very cosy, clean and well equipped and furnished tastefully. We enjoyed sitting at the kitchen table most of all, where the birds and the ever-changing creek kept us always entertained. At night we enjoyed the stars and the Milky Way high above us.
Linda was a lovely host, who welcomed us warmly and left a lovely cream tea set-up on our arrival. She didn't tire of my endless questions ( although I am sure she would be - I'd be tired of my own questions!) I asked via email and answered them swiftly. One thing I would note is that the garden is very steep in some of the slopes given the fact that it's on a rock and you can't do much about that. So you need extra extra care with children under 5. We knew we wouldn't be able to let the kids run free whilst at the cottage but we still booked because we can manage that with the positives the cottage has to offer. We had three adults to supervise and they were happy enough on the patio. Plus the children ran free on the many beaches on offer so they didn't feel restricted. So altogether it was a beautiful place to stay.
Shifia B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Aug, 2021
This lovely family were a pleasure to welcome to Rock Cottage and I am so pleased that after such a long, tiring and eventful journey to Cornwall, they were able to relax and enjoy their time here. Thank you so very much Shifia for your wonderful review of Rock Cottage.
Rock Cottage really is in a beautiful, peaceful location but well located to visit many nice beaches
The cottage is very well presented and the owners are on hand nearby if you have any questions.
Graham R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jun, 2021
It was a pleasure to welcome you, Pam and Bumble & Max for your second stay at Rock Cottage. Thank you for being such lovely guests. See you again.
About the host
Hosted by Mrs Linda Dandy
Hello from Linda Dandy. For me, it is a real privilege to assist with the managing of Rock Cottage which has been in the Dandy Family for 69 years. On a holiday to the area in 1954, Rock Cottage was ‘discovered’ by Robin's parents, Eleanor (Peggy) and Leslie Dandy. They immediately recognised the special nature of this 16th century cottage and its unique location, which stands alone within an acre of land bordering the Helford River on two sides. Later that year the property was purchased at auction for their retirement.
Why they chose this property
At the time of purchase, the cottage was condemned as unfit for human habitation and was also Grade II listed because it was then the ‘only recorded example of a traditional Cornish cottage built on a projecting rock foundation’. There was no mains water or electricity, so rainwater was collected for washing and oil lamps and candles provided the only illumination. Drinking water was collected from a nearby spring. A comprehensive renovation programme took place and this was completed by January 1956. The main building was demolished to ground floor ceiling level except for the chimney end which was preserved. The traditional cob (mud, straw and stone) walls retained where it was possible. A Bathroom was created from the old Scullery, the Sitting Room extended and a new Kitchen constructed.
The Garden Room was formerly a separate cottage and had been altered in the early 1900s to become a Meeting Room for game shooting for the Trelowarren Estate. Both families living in the cottages’ had shared the semi-detached privy with their own pathway to it. This building has been preserved and still exists at the bottom of the garden. It must have been quite tricky to keep a candle lit in order to see where you were going! An 1876 map also shows a boathouse and the original two stone walls of this still remain.
The objective of the renovations was to modernise the cottage but still retain its character and originality as much as possible. We believe this has been achieved and many guests think so too. It is a superb waterside retreat and there is nowhere quite like it!
What makes this property unique
Rock Cottage is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with very convenient and easy access to many of the local amenities. However, it retains a tranquil and idyllic outlook. The Dandy Family are pleased to share the wonders of the Mawgan Creek and the peaceful atmosphere of Rock Cottage with you where a sincere and friendly welcome beckons.