Entire home

Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro

Photo gallery for Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro

Welcome to Willy Wilcox Cottage!
Aerial photo.  Willy Wilcox is the house on the end right opposite the quay.
Newly refurbished kitchen/dining room
Newly refurbished kitchen/dining room
Newly refurbished kitchen/dining room
Reviews
10 out of 10 Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendlyPet-friendlyPet-friendly
  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • WasherWasherWasher

Check out the area

Map
Polperro, Cornwall, ENG
  • Popular LocationPolperro Harbour1 min walk
  • Popular LocationTalland Bay Beach22 min drive
  • Popular LocationLooe Beach31 min drive
  • AirportPlymouth (PLH-Plymouth City)53 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

The Beach Room

1 King Bed

The Boat Room

2 Single Beds

The Harbour Room

1 King Bed

The Quay Room

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

En Suite Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining Area

About this property

Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro

REGARDING OLD REVIEWS PLEASE SEE COMMENTS AT THE END OF THIS TEXT, PREVIOUSLY BOOKED LISTING REVIEWS WERE NOT ABLE TO BE TRANSFERRED TO NEW HOMEAWAY SITE UNFORTUNATELY: Please note lack of recent reviews is down to owners residing in the cottage recently.

Willy Wilcox Cottage is the listed seafront cottage, with the bright blue door and shutters, seen on so many paintings and postcards of both Polperro and Cornwall. The cottage is one of Polperro's historic landmarks partially built over a cave and previously belonging to the late 18th century fisherman, Willy Wilcox, reputedly believed to have been involved in smuggling. It has four bedrooms, all have sea and fishing harbour views. The beamed sitting room has an open fire with copper canopy and an ancient pickling well for nets. The well and the mysterious narrow passage between the cliff face and the cottage are illuminated and visible from the sitting room through a glazed window. Legend has it that Willy was trapped by the sea whilst secreting contraband into the cave and on the beach below! The room also boasts a large deep bay window, a perfect vantage point with seating to enjoy the heavenly views looking over the fishing boats in the harbour and views out to sea. The unique raised beach terrace has stunning far reaching sea views, a great place for breakfast, a nightcap or any time in between and there is also an enclosed rear terrace. We welcome you with a home-made cream tea.

Willy Wilcox comfortably sleeps eight is just feet from the beach in this historic village. Its idyllic location has the National Trust South Coastal Path leading from steps behind the cottage which is situated over the cave and beach in Polperro providing fantastic walking along this unspoiled coastline. Looe, Polruan and Fowey are also within close proximity to here and are all also quaint fishing harbours with plenty to do and see. The pubs, restaurants, art galleries and shops of Polperro are just seconds away with its quaint narrow streets and colour washed cottages nestled into the valley surrounding the working fishing harbour. We are very dog friendly and they are welcomed widely in Polperro. The house also comes with a private parking space a short walk from the property.

This listing has a small number of reviews in the review section simply because we are the new owners of the property, however all previous reviews (of which there are many) are posted below which will hopefully give any future guests a clear outline of what to expect from this wonderful cottage. The house remains unchanged and so the previous reviews are an accurate representation. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any queries. Kindest regards
Amanda

PREVIOUS REVIEWS:
Date of Stay: 9th June 2018
"Amazing location"
We had a fantastic holiday in a beautiful cottage in an amazing location. It was everything I thought it would be and more. I would highly recommend this property and hope to return one day. Thank you Amanda for all your help. C Evans - 22nd June 2018

Date of Stay: 1st February 2018
"Breathtaking"
Property couldn't be situated in a better place. In a beautiful little village with a picturesque coastal views. Best place I have been. Will definitely be returning. Gary B - 4 February 2018

Date of Stay: 20th January 2018
"Utterly perfect"
An absolute gem of a property and place and a real reminisce for me as I used to play on the beach as a child. 43 years later I get to revisit. Hoping to be a regular at Willy Wilcox and huge thanks to Tracey for making it all so welcoming and sparkly. Toasty warm on arrival with delicious scones and clotted cream waiting for us. The house is incredibly well equipped, nothing has been left out. Only sorry we didn’t bring a suitable smart fizz bottle to add to the collection, will endeavour to remedy this next time! Had a lovely chat with Gina the local artist with a gallery in pole position in the village, although she pretty much has another gallery in Willy Wilcox as a there are lovely pieces of hers dotted around and about the property. The staff at The Blue (Blue Peter pub) and The Three Pilchards are all delightful. Try the Foy gin in The Blue. Wonderful coastal walks, log fire, board games and just general perpetual gazing at the stonkingly stunning view. Go and stay it’s so worth it. Thank you for all the very prompt and helpful communication, hope to speak to you again.
Kindest regards and thanks once again.
J, A, A & S – 24th January 2018

Date of Stay: 8th January 2018
"Every time we stay we are enchanted"
We stayed in summer, autumn, spring and winter since our children were small. Now we bring our grandchildren too. Warm, welcoming and unbelievable location on the harbours edge. The Blue Peter Pub does lovely food and a take away service. Alison P – 17th January 2018

Date of Stay: 24th November 2017
"Cosy cottage ideally placed in the harbour"
We had just a wonderful time at Willy Wilcox. We fell in love with Polperro after visiting it for the first time in the summer but it's just lovely at this time of year - the streets are quiet, the fires are lit, the Blue Peter pub was especially welcoming, and we felt very comfortable tucked up in the cottage. Most of the local artist shops seemed fairly pleased that we visited them as well judging by how much of their work we brought home - a large photo of Willy Wilcox with the waves crashing over the roof is going to take centre stage in our living room soon. We even made some new friends sitting in the Blue Peter who we've kept in touch with since so we've left with very fond memories all round.
Andre P – 17th December 2017

Date of Stay: 9th September 2017
"Don't book it....I want it all for myself!!"
Our fourth stay at Willy's, if there is a better location in a quintessential Cornish harbour I would love the hear about it please
Carole T – 16th September 2017

Date of Stay: 19th August 2017
"Quaint cottage in fabulous location"
This is a really nice place to stay directly on the harbour.
Lesley C – 29th August 2017

Date of Stay: 29th July 2017
Absolutely charming property with its own part to play in a smugglers story.We stayed for a week, family of four plus 2 grandparents. The house is really well equipped and clean. It could not be better placed in Polperro and the pub a couple of doors down is the best in Polperro. I guess my only dent would be the parking arrangements not only for the house but Polperro in general. Space is at a premium so be prepared for some precision parking. Looe is only 15 minutes away and has a bit more in the way of supermarkets etc. Overall a great booking and would love to return. Tony R – 8th August 2017

Date of Stay: 8th July 2017
"Idyllic location, beautiful views"
This cottage is just what we needed for the idyllic break. Spent many hours watching the boats from the top terrace. Gorgeous views, beautiful place . Would definitely like to go back. Sharon M – 17th July 2017

Date of Stay: 1st April 2017
"The perfect seaside house"
Our 5th stay at Willy. Such a relaxing place. Our teenage and adult children still love to be in Polperro. House is very well presented with a good range of kitchen gear. Also, children's games and a good selection of DVDs. Perfect position overlooking the sea.
Anonymous – 10th April 2017

Date of Stay: 27th March 2017
"Location! Location!!.....Location!!!"
The weather was a bit off, but even watching the choppy sea out of the bay window of Willy's cosy lounge was a real treat.
Carole T – 2nd April 2017

Date of Stay: 25th January 2017
"Wonderful holiday home in a superb location"
We stayed here for 3 weeks and certainly could have stayed longer. The property is a home from home with all the amenities you could wish for. I'm not sure there is a better location in all of Cornwall, we loved hearing the crashing waves and the proximity to the beach and the coastal walks were great. Polperro is a lively village and although we were there very much out of season there were pubs and some shops open. Couch's restaurant has a great tasting menu and the Blue Peter inn was very friendly and cosy. Take away fish and chips from the 3 Pilchards not to be missed. Further afield there are great places to visit in under an hour: Eden Project, lost garden of Heligan, Fowey (do try the ferry!) and Padstow (great restaurants) to name a few. We went to quite a few beaches with the dog, Constantine near Padstow was our favourite, however nearer Par was good to exercise the dog and Polkerris with Sam’s on the Beach was lovely. The owner Deborah could not have been a better host and the house keepers Tracey and Carl were brilliant This will definitely be our next stop in Cornwall again, if it's not booked up!
Deborah B – 16th February 2017

Date of Stay: 21st January 2017
"Unrivalled location"
Another great stay @ Willy's, lots of very thoughtful touches by the owner. Carole T – 8th February 2017

Date of Stay: 7th January 2017
"Magical Place"
It's a magical place and we love staying. We will be back, we hopefully intend booking a Christmas in the near future also. My only regret is that on the day we left, the fishing boats were called in early and the Storm Gate was ordered to be shut. I love the stormy weather and drive my wife mad going on about it. I have a friend and his wife making a booking in the future too. They'll love it. I am a London Cabbie and tell everyone about it. As we say in the trade.........Be Lucky. Karl – 1st September 2017

Date of Stay:12th December 2016
"Cosy, quiet, charming with lots of character"
My husband, 3 year old son and myself all enjoyed our stay at Willy Wilcox. It is perfectly located with amazing views. Tracey and Deborah were great in the lead up to our stay and we really appreciated the passes the hotel in Looe. Our son loved that. The cream teas were outstanding too and a lovely Touch. The open fire was lovely too. We would definitely recommend. Melissa T – 16th December 2016

Property manager

Amanda Roundhill

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lb per pet (limit 2 pets total)

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Please ensure dogs are dried before entering the house, there is a back door into utility room for dogs to dry thoroughly. Thank you.
Please ensure dogs do not climb on the furniture and beds. Many thanks.
Please ensure dogs do not foul on any external part of the property. Many thanks.

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

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
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 deadlock

About the area

Looe

Located in Looe, this cottage is in a rural area and on the beach. Polperro Harbour and South West Coast Path Section 34 Trailhead are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Lantic Bay Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Eden Project and Polperro Model Village. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and cycling.
Map
Polperro, Cornwall, ENG

What's nearby

  • Polperro Harbour - 1 min walk
  • Polperro Model Village - 4 min walk
  • Talland Bay - 16 min walk
  • Talland Bay Beach - 22 min drive
  • Looe Beach - 31 min drive

Getting around

  • Sandplace Station - 12 min drive
  • Newquay (NQY-Newquay Cornwall) - 60 min drive

Restaurants

  • Dogs & Donuts - 7 min drive
  • Sarah's Pasty Shop - 9 min drive
  • Blue Peter Inn - 1 min walk
  • The Three Pilchards - 1 min walk
  • The Old Sail Loft Restaurant - 9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lb per pet.

What time is check-in at Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro located?

Nestled on the beach, this Looe cottage is just steps away from Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Polperro Harbour. Polpero Beach and South West Coast Path Section 34 Trailhead are also within 5 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

Katherine M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location with best view but not very private
This cottage is absolutely lovely inside- it’s been renovated but kept so much of its history. The view is incredible but this comes at a cost- you share it with many tourists especially when the weather is good. it got very noisy with people standing outside the whole time and walking past the kitchen windows to the viewing deck. (Sometimes peeping in!) We also had a few nights with drunken youths till all hours of the morning making loud noises rights outside / in the beach waking up my young kids and grandparents which isn’t fair for our holiday. Perhaps a quieter spot out of the summer holiday season.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

jeremy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing location yet it isn't just about that but the whole package
I'm not one to normally leave reviews if there's nothing positive to say but this cottage and our stay is worthy of a review. Spending a week in this lovely cottage was just the ticket. The cottage perfectly situated for the harbour and centre of the town without having to climb steep hills which for Polperro, I found can be quite the asset. First impressions of the cottage don't give way to disappointment at any time and whereas it had a couple of quirks it's a few hundred years old and allowed. Front door leading one way to fully equipped kitchen and wonderful to have plenty of glasses, mugs, cutlery etc. Far too often when renting a place there's only enough for single use per person before having to clean. The adjacent sitting room with a glorious viewing window also, again, has plenty of very comfortable seating. Upstairs beds and bedrooms galore with a fine selection of towels, gels etc laid on and an excellent hot water system providing bountiful supply to the showers etc. Open beams in the roof vaulted ceilings give rise to the warm homely feel. The garden terrace off one room is one quirk but well worth the quirk... makes for brilliant views and quite the sun trap. A barbeque rested there for use but we didn't partake preferring the offerings of the local amazing eating places. It can be said that the harbour and beach area is a main attraction of the village and it can appear busy at times in front but it's just not that busy at all in the bigger picture of things and it's below the cottage and whereas it could appear amongst it all from the outside it's totally the feel of away from the Madding Crowd inside. All in all the cottage, the situation, the amenities and the genuinely nice friendly local people and holiday makers alone mixed with location and all local walks etc makes for a perfect place Oh a Cream Tea awaiting our arrival was lovely and I as normal had cream first! :)
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Diane D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent property. Perfect location
Communication with Amanda was excellent. Helpful and prompt responses. She gave excellent recommendations for places to visit and eat. House was very comfortable and homely, it has everything you would need. The window seat is an excellent place to watch Harbour life. The view from the terrace is 2nd to none. The position of the house is perfect for fun in the sea, walking coastal paths and enjoying the friendly village. We had the perfect family holiday!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carol S., Manchester

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Willy Wilcox Cottage Holiday
We had the most fantastic holiday at Willy Wilcox Cottage, the cottage is amazing, very high standard all round it was immaculate, the cottage is on the beach and the views are amazing, magical, everything you need is already in the cottage. Amanda the owner was excellent very helpful. This was the perfect place for me and family to recuperate and explore Cornwall we loved it !! Many thanks Amanda & John.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Viv C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful cottage
This is the most perfect cottage in the best location in Polperro. Steeped in history with a view over the sea and harbour, Willy Wilcox gives is a short walk from all the restaurants and facilities of Polperro. It is kitted out with everything you need, warm and cosy and exceedingly comfortable. Amanda was really helpful. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Amanda Roundhill

Host profile image
“A house by the sea” he said...
Little did we know we would ever own a property virtually in the sea! Willy Wilcox Cottage is a truly unique property and its position speaks for itself we hope.

Fondest childhood memories of Polperro, buckets and spades, fudge, fish & chips, obligatory seaside paraphernalia – nothing has changed, and it feels like home.

The desire to be by the sea is driven by a few things, the assumption that having a salty sea dog sailor as a husband was the catalyst to this event coming to fruition is only part of the reason.

It dawned on us a few years ago when we were away with our two sons, now both in their 20s, that the most fun we have ever had with them involved islands and coastline, not your posh overseas sort of islands but the rugged, mostly British coastal sort where quay jumping, pebble stacking, walking, camping on the sea water’s edge, toasting marshmallows, lying on camomile filled grassy verges watching shooting stars and endless games of cards over mugs of hot chocolate (occasionally laced with rum) and no WIFI were the order of the day, (I hasten to add that Willy Wilcox does however have fabulous super-fast fibre Wifi!).

The best part of all was that our boys absolutely got it and still relish a holiday like this, there is no doubt that at the first opportunity they will be jumping off the quay wall whenever they go to Polperro. I have no doubt that they will at some stage in their lives, return and share all these experiences with their own families and friends.

Willy Wilcox offers views that are out of this world from every window of the property and and a calm quirky cosy interior that I hope will wash your cares away. Whether it’s a balmy sunny day enjoying life outside the cottage, maybe a sundowner on the terrace or seeing a storm brewing outside, knowing that you are toasty and safe inside, we hope you enjoy your time at Willy Wilcox as much as we do every time we come home.

Why they chose this property

You won't find many properties that have exceptional views from every window in the house whilst being quirky and unique inside. A true working fishing village in the most picturesque of settings where the locals welcome you with open arms. Fall asleep and wake up to the waves lapping below the house. Enjoy the suntrap terrace in the summer and the comfort of seeing the changing seasons with fishing boats or spectacular storms and weather fronts coming into the harbour whilst cosy inside, and if you feel the need to venture further than your front door there are so many wonderful things to do and see in the area.

What makes this property unique

The reason the cottage features on so many photos and postcards is that it is hard to imagine a better location. A historic property of character and charm, a beach on your doorstep with a private terrace looking to open sea. Polperro with it pubs, galleries, shops and restaurants less than a minute away. The peace of the coastal path leading from steps behind the cottage. You can feel completely secluded yet so much life and activity is just outside - the best of both worlds!

Languages:

English
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

More Holiday Rentals ideas

People also search for