insideKENT Magazine Issue 31 - October 2014 | Page 106

GETAWAYS

COSY UP IN CORNWALL AT

Boscundle Manor
Nestled between the villages of Charlestown and Fowey, and just two miles east of charming
market town, St Austell, Boscundle Manor is the ideal base from which to enjoy Cornwall. Boasting
luxury accommodation, award-winning fine dining and extensive facilities, this idyllic country house
and day spa is indeed one of the county's best-kept secrets. Until now, that is. BY GEMMA DUNN

It's hard not to fall in love with Cornwall. From
its unrivalled 300-mile coastline to spectacular
beaches, fishing harbours, picturesque towns,
landscapes, and vibrant art and foodie scene, it
is both diverse and forthcoming in its offering.
If you have been, you will understand the
enchantment. A hot spot for discerning
holidaymakers, mini-breakers, ramblers and
surfers alike, there is something for anyone and
everyone.
So here I am – a seasoned mini-breaker with a
penchant for the West Country. But for me,
Cornwall is much more than a staycation; it is a
place that triggers nostalgic childhood memories
of family fun, seaside stays, rock pool finds, ice
creams, the list goes on. A love affair that will
last a lifetime, it is my special place.

Boscundle Manor exists as a reputed luxurious
hotel, restaurant, wedding venue and day spa.
Flanked by pretty sloping gardens and ancient
woodland, this secluded 18th-century manor
house and its five-acre estate is striking from the
off. While lilac blossom cascades across the
frontage, well-kept lawns and perfectly appointed
flowerbeds make for a picture-perfect backdrop.
Inside, the story reads the same. From the cosy
lounge with its elegant furnishings and open
fireplace to the opulent dining room, contemporary
bar, Mediterranean-esque conservatory, and
tranquil spa, every room at Boscundle boasts an
interior that affords a wide clientele, without losing
sight of the building's authenticity.

In my eyes, if it is worth talking about, it is worth
visiting. So visit I do. And having pledged to make
a new memory each time, on this occasion I was
set to discover a beautiful boutique-style country
house hotel by the name of Boscundle Manor.
Located on the outskirts of St Austell, and just
one mile from the stunning South Cornwall Coast,
this idyllic find ticks all the boxes.

In addition to its public areas, the hotel offers 14
guest rooms, each individual in design and
purpose. Able to cater for all bookable parties
including families, couples, lone and business
travellers, guests can choose from suites and
rooms in the manor house or a secluded stay in
The Cottage, an entirely separate building located
at the top of Boscundle's grounds, with three
double or twin en-suite bedrooms, as well as a
kitchen/lounge.

Since taking the reins over 12 years ago,
husband-and-wife team, David and Sharon
Parker, have realised their primary vision of hosting
a small wedding venue – and then some. Today,

My guest and I were lucky enough to be staying
in The Charlotte Garden Suite, a showstopper
of a room, which also acts as the hotel's principle
bridal suite. Located approximately 30 metres

106

from the house, this chalet-build is entirely selfcontained and comes complete with a private
patio and panoramic views of the terraced
gardens, croquet lawn and outdoor pool.
Dramatically decorated in black, white and hot
pink, the suite blends contemporary prints with
modern furnishings. While the main room plays
host to a sumptuous super king bed, designated
sofa area with a large flat screen TV, and a mini
utility with tea and coffee making facilities; the
en-suite features a large double-ended whirlpool
spa bath, matching glass vessel sinks, an
overhead rain shower and unique wooden
decking.
However, while spectacular, it is the thoughtful
extras such as lavish Molton Brown toiletries,
bathrobes, a fresh fruit plate, flip-flops, and a
welcome note - complete with Sharon's 'list of
things to do' in the local area - that make all the
difference.
That same evening we had a dinner reservation
at the hotel's award-winning restaurant, an
intimate setting that offers a carnival of fresh
flowers, beautiful gl 77v&R