Paul and Lesley Stapleton are natural hosts – genial, welcoming and knowledgeable about the area. In 2014 they rescued this handsome Grade II-listed manor, together with its eight-acre garden, from a state of dilapidation. They have refurbished the place immaculately, retaining fine architectural features whilst bringing the house into the 21st century. The seven bedrooms – including a brand new double and a suite – have been beautifully and individually decorated, with emperor-sized beds and state-of-the-art bathrooms. The little things haven’t been forgotten either, with hotties and robes upstairs and crackling fires, delicious breakfasts and an honesty bar downstairs. Cream teas and crusty bread are hand-baked by Paul’s mother, while the large sitting room is a real home from home. The location could hardly be better, within striking distance of some of North Cornwall’s best and prettiest towns, beaches, golf courses and restaurants. This boutique B&B just for adults is a great place to escape the kids.
Why not walk the beautiful North Cornwall coast from Polzeath to Rock, via Daymer Bay and take in St Enodoc church, the resting place for poet John Betjeman, on the way to Rock and the ferry to Padstow.
North Cornwall is gastronomic heaven – try Nathan Outlaw’s two Michelin star restaurant in Port Isaac, his 1 star Fish Kitchen restaurant in Port Isaac harbour, Paul Ainsworth’s michelin-starred No.6 restaurant and of course the Rick Stein Empire in Padstow.
Take a trip just up the road to the internationally renowned Camel Valley Vineyard, where you can experience a full tour and if you fancy sample, and even buy, some of the top sparkling wines in the world.
Nota Bene
The Domesday Book dates the house to 1211, making it one of the oldest in the country.
