The Old Byre

Why you'll love staying here

Tucked away on the outskirts of Mawman Smith, just five miles from Falmouth, The Old Byre is a well-presented “upside down” barn conversion on a 160 acre farm with a Grade II listed farmhouse in the grounds. Thoughtfully restored to retain original features including an oak stable door, vaulted ceilings, and exposed timber beams. With stylish, contemporary interiors, it’s ideal for a family or couple looking to explore south west Cornwall’s beautiful beaches and countryside.

Outside, The Old Byre benefits from a shared garden with a barbecue reached across a quite country lane, perfect for exercising dogs. From here you can take in the stunning views over the surrounding farmland, which comprises mixed arable land, pasture, and, grassland, interspersed with pockets of woodland, with a flock of breeding Ryeland sheep.

Falmouth is a picturesque harbour town, home to the National Maritime Museum which houses a collection of vintage boats and interactive displays showcasing the area’s maritime heritage. Its high street has an excellent range of indecent shops, pubs, and places to eat.

From the harbour, take a ferry to the lovely fishing village of St Mawes on the Roseland Peninsula with one of Henry VIII’s best preserved coastal fortresses, sail up the River Fal to Truro, or hop on a wildlife cruises for the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and a multitude of seabirds.

Trebah Garden, a subtropical paradise with a Gunnera jungle, a stunning array of hydrangeas, rhododendrons, magnolias, and camellias, and its own private beach, is a short drive away, while The Eden Project can be reached in around an hour.

The Old Byre is also well placed for exploring the Lizard Peninsula, famous for its unique serpentine rock, dramatic coastal scenery, and rare plants and wildflowers.

Other attractions nearby include Trelissick Garden, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, and the Museum of Cornish Life.

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close to the mouth of the Helford River, Mawnan Smith has a village store and thatched pub that serves food and welcomes dogs. All other amenities including supermarkets, railway stations, and good bus links can be found in Falmouth.