Porthcurno Barns, The Cart Lodge – Cosy cottage, walk to Porthcurno beach, Pedn Vouder & Minack Theatre

Hotel Description

Okay, so I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to Trendrennen Farmhouse – honestly, the name “Cart Lodge” had me picturing some rustic barn conversion that might be charming but probably drafty. Well, I was half right about the charming part, but this place is actually incredibly cozy and thoughtfully done. You’re essentially staying in a converted farm building, but someone clearly put real effort into making it feel like a proper retreat rather than just slapping some beds in an old barn.

The location is what really gets you though. I mean, you can literally walk to Porthcurno Beach – and I’m talking a proper walk, maybe 10-15 minutes through some gorgeous Cornish countryside, not one of those “walkable” situations where you need hiking boots and a GPS. The path takes you right down to that famous turquoise water that looks almost tropical on a good day. What’s brilliant is you’re also within striking distance of the Minack Theatre, which honestly might be one of the coolest venues in the UK (imagine watching a play carved into clifftops overlooking the Atlantic). Most people don’t realize you can easily pop over to Pedn Vounder beach too – it’s this hidden gem that’s a bit more secluded if Porthcurno gets crowded during summer months.

Inside the cottage, everything just works. The heating is actually effective, which matters more than you’d think in Cornwall, especially if you’re visiting outside of peak summer. There’s proper hot water pressure – again, not a given in these converted properties – and the kitchen has everything you actually need rather than just the bare minimum. I loved that they’ve kept some of the original stone walls and beams but haven’t gone overboard with the “ye olde farmhouse” aesthetic. Parking is right there, which is honestly a godsend because trying to park near popular Cornish beaches in summer can be a nightmare. The whole setup feels private too; you’re not sharing walls with other guests or dealing with hotel corridor noise. Check-in was refreshingly straightforward – none of that awkward “meet us at the pub down the road” situation you sometimes get with these smaller places. You know what really sold me? Waking up to actual countryside quiet, then having that short walk to one of Cornwall’s most stunning beaches. It’s the kind of place where you end up extending your stay if you can swing it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $340. Two-Bedroom House with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Philip from Australia – 14 June 2025 (10/10)

  The location, the whole presentation and the warmth of the people!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Alan from United Kingdom – 28 April 2025 (9/10)

  Clean, very comfy beds, excellent facilities and provisions

• Gwen from United Kingdom – 13 April 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely cosy place that had everything we needed. The location was great for us all walking to the beach, the Minack Theatre and the local pub The Logan Rock Inn. We managed a bbq, swim and lie on the beach for 2 of the days and walking in the rain the next we put a welcoming woodburner on briefly.
  The waste and recycling was very well explained because our council has not started doing such a good job at recycling. Once we read the list it was easier.

• Gillian from United Kingdom – 31 December 2024 (10/10)

  It was right next to where my daughter was staying and they had a full house at the barn. It had everything I needed and in a lovely spot.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Verena from Germany – 15 July 2024 (10/10)

  Lovely cottage close to beach and hiking routes. We really loved our stay here. Really nice scandi style furniture. Extremely well equipped – everything was there that you needed. Especially loved the little basket with local food upon arrival as we did not need to go to the supermarket on the first night. Would definitely stay again.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect! The only tiny thing: In the bathroom it would be great to have a little shelf for putting stuff as the sink was very small.

• Anna from United States – 15 June 2024 (10/10)

  We really loved the location. We weren't sure about being outside a town or village, but it was so beautiful and relaxing to stay here. And so easy to get to the pub, the beach, Porthcurno and (especially) the coast path!

• Judith from United Kingdom – 11 May 2024 (10/10)

  We received an email in advance with all the information required. A well designed online booklet provided us with all the information.

• Stefanie from United Kingdom – 4 May 2024 (10/10)

  Perfect hideaway for father daughter walking the SW coast path
  Great decor and extremely comfortable beds
  Appreciated the welcome pack

• Bob from United Kingdom – 9 February 2024 (9/10)

  The location was superb for walking on the many footpaths. The cottage is very well equipped, the interior is cosy and lovingly designed, the beds are great. Would have loved to stay another week …. Thank you, Harriet and Sylvain, also for the wonderful welcome hamper!

• Tracy from United Kingdom – 8 January 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful property, quiet, super clean, comfortable and very well equipped property. Hosts had gone the extra to make us feel welcome and at home with welcome basket of local produce, and attention to detail throughout the property with added extra's.
  
  What could be improved: Only downside, was position of outside light while reversing to park, shines in face. Might be better at front door of property by slope.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities