A Blyton-esque bump along slender lanes with fat hedges to arrive at this 19th-century stone farmhouse, once part of the Pencarrow estate. Artist Janet (you can learn to draw or paint in her studio here) and cheery Derek have sprinkled house and garden with good taste and creativity: find beautiful art, slate floors, fresh flowers, books and light-filled, serene rooms. You walk straight into the kitchen with its big convivial table, pretty blue cupboards and garden views from window seats – there are all the basics for cooking and a starter pack, but if you feel idle just head out to one of the great restaurants nearby. Sprawlers and telly watchers will be very happy in the sitting room with its squishy sofas, plenty of books and big wood-burner but there’s a second, quieter room off the kitchen for escapees – and a utility room. You’ll sleep well in bedrooms with a nautical feel – painted wood panelling, striped rugs, quilted bedspreads, old pine; bathrooms are neat as a pin. You’re near both coasts for watery fun and stunning walking but it may be tempting just to stay put and have a barbecue in the fecund garden.
A fabulous afternoon spent with my 92 year old grandparents in Janet's studio learning how to use the right hand side of our brains! Fascinating, insightful and so much fun! Plenty of giggles, interruptions by George the affable cat, top tips from Janet and a lovely cup of tea too! Fully recommend the experience and drawing upon Janet's wealth of experience and obvious talent too. Janet, Derek and Ruby have been wonderful hosts, nothing too much trouble and a wealth of local knowledge offered up in a delightfully friendly fashion. thank you!!