Guests say
Penlaurel in Launceston, Cornwall, is a highly praised holiday cottage, renowned for its cleanliness, comfort, and beautiful garden. Guests have enjoyed the spaciousness, the hot tub, and the thoughtful touches such as gifts, though these are not guaranteed. While some minor maintenance issues were mentioned, the overall experience is one of a luxurious and welcoming stay, with many expressing a desire to return.
The cottage is consistently described as clean and well-maintained, with only a single mention of finding rubbish in a drawer. The high standard of cleanliness contributes significantly to the guests' enjoyment.
The location is generally appreciated for its good positioning in North Cornwall, with easy access to local attractions. However, some guests noted the busy nearby road and the tricky driveway exit, slightly affecting the score.
Guests frequently mention the comfortable beds and various cosy areas within the house, indicating a high level of comfort. The property provides a relaxing environment, even during poor weather.
The facilities, including the hot tub and kitchen, are well-received, but some guests reported issues with the hoover, dryer, and garden maintenance. The presence of a PlayStation and secure garden for dogs were positives.
Many reviews highlight the thoughtful touches like decorations, gifts of prosecco and chocolates, and personalised items. While these gestures are greatly appreciated, it is important to note that such gifts are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
This magical, Georgian home is tucked away in the hamlet of Daw's House, near Launceston. Set in the heart of Cornwall, this is perfect for families and friends looking to tour a wonderful area. Feel instantly at home as you walk into the sitting room, snuggle together with your loved ones and watch your favourite films. The snug convenient located off the kitchen provides an additional viewing choices and gaming too. The large kitchen is great for rustling up those hearty meals to be eaten in the dining room. The woodburner at the head of the table warms those wintry nights, whilst you engage in a late night chat.
For those looking for a peaceful seclusion, the study is filled with natural light and is perfect for getting lost in a book. A restful night's sleep awaits you in each of the three beautiful bedrooms upstairs, boasting views of green pastures. The master suite benefits en-suite facilities, whilst the other two king-size rooms are served by the country-style bathroom. To the exterior, the mature enclosed garden is filled with lush shrubbery, pretty flowers in a riot of colour and a charming outdoor swing enjoying a balmy afternoon, this enclosed area is perfect for your four-legged friends too! This is the ideal spot to sit and reminisce on the day's adventures.
A soak in the covered hot tub is also a must. There are many activities right on the doorstep, Cornwall's picturesque landscape makes it ideal for cycling the year-round. For a family day out, why not take a trip up to Roadford Lake, within a safe off-road environment? A short drive will bring you to the edge of Bodmin Moor, where wild grassland is roamed by the famous ponies. Follow the Copper Trail from the village of Minions and find natural stone formations in vast areas steeped in history. For the thrill seekers, Adrenalin Quarry is simply a must, it provides hours of fun on a 450 metre long zip wire.
Further afield Dartmoor National Park hosts a wealth of activities throughout rugged terrain, from mountain biking and steep hiking to picnics beside trickling streams. This is a fantastic luxury base, with fun for all the family!
Launceston is situated on the Devon and Cornwall border and is dominated by the ruins of a Norman castle sitting high above the town. Visit the Tamar Otter Park just 3 miles away or take a trip on the steam train from Launceston through the beautiful Kensey Valley on a 5-mile round trip. Launceston is within driving distance of the seaside resorts of Bude and Padstow to the north, and Plymouth to the south, as well as the stunning Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor.
Accommodation
Three bedrooms: 3 x king-size doubles (one with en-suite shower room with shower, basin and WC).
Bathroom with roll-top free standing bath, separate shower, basin and WC, ground floor cloakroom.
Kitchen/diner with TV area.
Utility.
Dining room with woodburning stove.
Sitting room.
Study
Central heating with wood burning stove.
Belling Professional range cooker with electric oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, coffee machine.
Smart TV with Sky, PlayStation 4, WiFi, selection of books.
Fuel, power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Highchair and travel cot available.
Ample off-road parking.
Enclosed garden with patio, hot tub and gas barbecue.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop and pub 1.6 miles.
Note: There may be steps around the internal and external areas of the property.
Note: Welcome Hamper.
Note: Airport transfers available for additional fee.
Note: Check in time 16:00
Reviews (56)
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Suzy
Very comfy and plenty of space to relax, cook, or enjoy the lounges in. Also a nice welcome of bubbly & chocs. The garden was large but due to some wet weather I found some flagstones very slippery underfoot. I kept my dog on his stretchy lead as parts of the garden seemed less secure for my dog and animals were entering overnight and toileting. However the garden is so big, my dog still had plenty of space to play in. The hot tub was large and welcome after a day of walking and exploring Cornwall. The hot tub is set back in amongst trees and shrubs, which was nice and private. But as the light fades in autumn we found there was not enough garden light to clearly see the entrance to the hot tub and tripped against steps partially hidden by an overgrown bush on the first night. Defo grab a torch from the property or use the one on your phone if going into the hot tub during the evenings. A garden broom would be useful so visitors can sweep away fern leaves etc away from the hot tub as we tracked some back into the house. On the last morning I found the neighbours gardener in our garden using an electric saw at height chopping down tree branches, with our side gate open. Thankfully my dog was on his lead, or he wouldâve run straight out of the gate. The bloke didnât seem remotely concerned with his behaviour and I had to quite firmly tell him to leave and shut the gate. He hadnât even knocked at the property to ask if it was ok to come into the garden. I was fuming. I would recommend a lock for the gate to prevent another near miss. Overall we had a fantastic time, in this beautiful property. It is well located for visits to Tintagel, Bude, Padstow, Bodwin moors to name a few. I would recommend.
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Andrea
A couple of small maintenance issues but nothing that would take away from a wonderful stay
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Alex
There were several issues that we were extremely disappointed in that really took the shine off our trip given the amount we paid for the week. The kids were very excited about the hottub but it was surrounded by large bushes preventing any natural light getting through, our kids were too scared to stay in after 10 minutes. The garden had an extremely rusty bench that only had 3 legs that was both dangerous (giving we have young children) as well as being an eye sore. The bbq was tiny and filthy so not fit for use. The garden was full of sharp leaf holly bushes that injured both our kids and dogs on a daily basis. There were several weeds/nettles across the garden which was generally unkept. Another dangerous point is that the angle of the driveway was about 45oC from the road facing downhill, we had several near misses when reversing out into a very busy road linking local towns. I also attempted to walk our dogs on a daily basis prior to going out for the day but the country roads by the house are very narrow with no pavements with cars often driving at 60mph. Unless youâre willing to drive there are no places within a reasonable and safe walking distance. Overall, whilst the house was nice, we do feel we overpaid considerably for our trip on reflection, which is a first for us having used Sykes for years⦠I had pictures to back up all of our claims including the hot tub and bench but there doesnât appear to be an upload option.