A four-bedroom clifftop bungalow offering unparalleled 180-degree panoramic ocean views has been placed on the market for £1.5 million. Located in a highly desirable coastal area of south Cornwall, the property, known as Down End Cottage, promises exceptional privacy and seclusion.
A Unique Coastal Retreat
Nestled on half an acre of private land, Down End Cottage provides direct access to a section of the renowned South West Coast Path. This scenic route stretches from Somerset to Dorset, with the segment near the cottage connecting the picturesque fishing village of Polperro to Talland Bay. Despite its proximity to the popular walking trail, the bungalow remains completely hidden from view, shielded by its elevated position and surrounding natural shrubbery, ensuring a tranquil escape for its residents.
Estate agents John Bray, handling the sale, describe the cottage as being “completely private and seemingly suspended between sea and sky.” They emphasize the rarity of such a waterfront property, noting its “sheer magnificence” and “rare beauty and quiet seclusion.” The opportunity to acquire a home in such a unique and unreproducible coastal setting is highlighted as increasingly uncommon in the property market.
Historic Charm and Modern Comfort
Dating back to the 1920s, the white-washed bungalow spans 1,924 square feet. Originally, many such Cornish cottages were built by local fishermen, farmers, and miners, designed to withstand the challenging coastal weather. Down End Cottage has been well-maintained throughout its history. The current owners purchased the property in 2019 and have utilized it as their permanent residence, embracing its appeal beyond the typical holiday home association of the region.
Interior Layout and Features
The interior comprises an entrance hall, a sitting room, a kitchen and breakfast room, and two bathrooms. Accommodation is provided by three double bedrooms and a fourth, smaller bedroom which could also serve as a study. The design thoughtfully incorporates the stunning surroundings, with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors leading from the bedrooms and the kitchen/breakfast room onto terraces that overlook the English Channel. Additional features include a garden room with sea views, a well, expansive gardens, a detached double garage, and parking space for up to four vehicles.
Proximity to Local Attractions
The property’s location offers convenient access to local amenities and natural beauty. A short walk in one direction leads to Lekerock Cove, a secluded sandy beach ideal for swimming, and further on to Talland Bay. In the opposite direction, the charming fishing village of Polperro is less than a mile away. Polperro, with its distinctive cottages built along steep hillsides surrounding the harbour, has a rich history, including a period of involvement in the smuggling trade during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Market Potential and Appeal
Josephine Ashby of John Bray Estates commented on the property’s unique character, stating, “This is a property that seems lost in time; it’s hard to believe that such a place can exist.” She noted that the property was sold via sealed bids when it last changed hands in 2019 and anticipates significant interest from multiple potential buyers. Ashby highlighted the “plot, the position and the single-storey footprint” as offering substantial potential for development, subject to obtaining necessary planning permissions. However, she also suggested that the cottage would be equally appealing to a buyer who wishes to cherish and maintain it in its current state.
Conclusion
Down End Cottage presents a rare opportunity to acquire a distinctive property in a breathtaking coastal location. Its combination of historical character, modern comforts, stunning ocean vistas, and potential for future development makes it a highly attractive prospect for discerning buyers seeking a unique seaside home.
