Mowhay Barn is a reverse-level contemporary barn conversion, set in the peaceful Helford area. Hundreds of years of history has been lovingly folded together with contemporary features to create a living space that simply makes you feel good, from the moment you step in. Outside you can relax in your own sunny garden, or wander through into the sculpture garden of the Kestle Barton art gallery, beyond to the meadows and orchards, or a little further down footpaths to the beautiful Helford village or romantic Frenchman's Creek. Mowhay Barn is part of the ancient farmstead of Kestle Barton, the whole of which has been lovingly restored. As well as Mowhay, there is the original farm house and two further barns sleeping two, and eight, plus a cottage sleeping four — making this a great place to book separate accommodation with friends and family. Explore the Kestle barton collection here.
Inside
You are welcomed into Mowhay on the top floor through the rustic barn-style door and straight into a generous airy open-plan kitchen and dining area with high beamed ceilings. It is well equipped with ample worktop space and a lovely farmhouse style dining table in the centre — perfect for home-cooked feasts. Original artworks by some of Cornwall's best contemporary artists adorn the walls and beautiful wooden window shutters add pops of character. This is a wonderful social space, with a foosball table to enjoy as well. At the other end and on the same level is the living room — a calming space with generous sofas, high roof-beams, polished lime-plaster rendering and beautiful wide-planked oak flooring. The contemporary wood burner adds the perfect touch for relaxing on a chilly evening.

Bravely contrasting the historic feel of this barn, the unashamedly modern staircase takes you downstairs where you will find all three bedrooms. The principal bedroom is located at the end of the hall and has a plush super king bed (can be made into twin on request), sofa and ensuite with double-ended bath and walk-in shower. At the opposite end of the hall is the second super king bedroom (can also be made into twin on request). The third bedroom is a lovely, cosy twin and a generous family bathroom can be found downstairs too. The downstairs walls tell the history of this building — with hints of an ancient granite doorway here, new heritage plasterwork there… and everywhere a lovely sense of style and space.
Outside
Open the wooden gates from the car-parking area and step into your own large open storage barn. It's great for storing bikes and surfboards and comes complete with a table-tennis table for extra fun. Beyond this is your pretty garden which benefits from the sun all afternoon, and has elegant furniture in the summer for al-fresco dining. Beyond is the wonderful sculpture garden of the Kestle Barton gallery. During times the gallery is open you will also find your friendly hosts here, so there is a helping hand if needed. Kestle Barton also has a beautiful wildflower meadow and orchard — all here for you to soak up and enjoy...
Things we love
It's a joy to see such a wonderful combination of heritage architecture and contemporary design at Mowhay Barn. The reverse-living layout really makes use of all the space, making the upstairs living areas a superb place for families and friends — big enough to find a quiet corner, but all connected so a great space for socialising too. The setting of Kestle Barton is also unique. You are staying not only in a beautiful holiday cottage, but also in the heart of an ancient farmstead in the Helford that is now both a haven for escape, and a highly reputed centre for the arts with many of the artists showcased bearing international reputations. In turn, Kestle Barton is connected to the world by footpaths that lead to beautiful woodland and countryside, and you are close to the Helford village too. Mowhay Barn is a peaceful place whatever the season and with nature on your doorstep, you are guaranteed a restful and restorative break.