Entire home
Stunning house right by the sea, spectacular far reaching sea views in Polperro
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Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Polperro, Cornwall, ENG
- Place, Polperro Harbour1 min walk
- Place, Talland Bay17 min walk
- Place, Looe Beach9 min drive
- Airport, Newquay (NQY-Newquay Cornwall)57 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
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
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
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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 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
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.
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 Fowey Estuary are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Looe Beach and Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 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 mountain biking and cave exploring.
Polperro, Cornwall, ENG
What's nearby
- Polperro Harbour - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
- St John the Baptist Church - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
- Talland Bay - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
- Talland Bay Beach - 4 min drive - 2.1 km
- Looe Beach - 9 min drive - 8.6 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Sarah's Pasty Shop - 9 min drive
- The Jolly Sailor - 8 min drive
- The Ship Inn - 3 min walk
- Kitty's Lobster Crab & Seafood Snack - 1 min walk
- The Old Boathouse - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
About the host
Hosted by Amanda Roundhill
“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.
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!
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