Higher Kernick Farm

Why you'll love staying here

Situated just ten minutes from the centre of Launceston in the picturesque Kensey Valley, Higher Kernick Farm is a beautifully-appointed cottage on a 50 acre smallholding. With elegant, country-style interiors, an open fire for cooler days, and a baby grand piano for evening entertainment, it’s a lovely base for an extended family or group of friends looking to explore the countryside and coast of Cornwall.

Outside, the cottage benefits from a spacious enclosed garden, laid mainly to lawn with mature apple and plum trees, and a barbecue for al fresco dining, The garden is secure enough for dogs with DEFRA-approved netting along the boundary to prevent them disturbing the cows grazing in the neighbouring fields.

Guests are also welcome to explore the farm which includes wildflower meadows, areas of woodland, riverbanks, and hedgerows for blackberry picking in late summer.

Known as the ‘gateway to Cornwall’, Launceston is an ancient market town dominated by a Norman castle overlooking the high street. There are also the remains of a defensive wall, a 14th century gatehouse, and a row of Georgian houses that Sir John Betjeman described as the the most perfect collection of townhouses in Cornwall.

Take a ride on Launceston Steam Railway, a narrow gauge railway that winds through the unspoilt countryside of the Kensey Valley to New Mills, a rural hamlet with a farm park and plenty of scenic woodland walks. Families will also enjoy Hidden Valley Puzzle Park about five miles from the town centre where attractions include a Forbidden Mansion, the magical village of Tremuddlewick, and immersive detective trails. Other attractions nearby include Tamar Otter and Wildlife Centre, Trethorne Leisure Park, and Roadford reservoir ideal for fishing, sailing, and water sports,

Just a few miles away is the wild, rugged landscape of Bodmin Moor, home to granite tors, prehistoric landmarks, abundance of wildlife and free roaming ponies. Stop off for a pint of cider at Jamaica Inn, an 18th century coaching inn that inspired Daphne Du Maurier’s novel of the same name. Or go back in time at Bodmin Jail, to get a glimpse into what life was like for a Victorian prisoner.

Launceston is well placed for exploring some of Cornwall’s prettiest coastal villages including Boscastle with a natural fishing harbour and whitewashed cottages, and Port Isaac, famous as a filming location for Doc Martin.

A traditional Cornish village inn serving home-cooked food is just under two miles away, while Launceston itself has a good range of shops including a supermarket, pubs, cafés, and restaurants, as well as weekly markets.