Immortalised by Daphne du Maurier in her novel Frenchman’s Creek, the Helford River nestles between the western edge of Falmouth Bay and the sheltered eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula. More secluded than the main estuary are the river’s many steep-sided, tree-lined creeks, which provide a tranquil habitat for a wide range of bird and marine wildlife.
‘There are many compelling reasons why families return to Helford year after year, and generation after generation, usually to take advantage of the idyllic sheltered creeks and inlets of the Helford river, which is ideal for day sailing,’ says Ian Lillicrap, founder of Truro-based Lillicrap Chilcott.
Mr Lillicrap is handling the £1.1 million sale of the delightful Hotch Potch in Helford, which stands on high ground overlooking the water, the village and the creek below – it's the thatched cottage towards the top left of this picture:
This enchanting three-bedroom house, on the market for the first time in 40 years, overlooks the pretty, colour-washed and thatched cottages of a delightfully unspoilt village that hugs the shoreline of the tidal creek.
Re-thatched in 2016, and equally desirable as a main or second home, according to the agent, Hotch Potch was built in the traditional local style in 1964.
It offers luxurious accommodation on two floors, including a reception hall, a dual-aspect master bedroom and two further bedrooms on the upper floor.
On the lower ground floor there is a large living room, a handmade Richard Winfrey kitchen and a stunning recent addition – a splendid dining conservatory with breathtaking views over the river.
The house, which appears to belie its name, comes with gated driveway parking, a thatched studio/home office, landscaped and well-stocked gardens, terraces and a deck, with steps descending to the village.
Planning consent has existed to convert the loft space to a superb master suite with 360-degree views. The owners have also considered extending the house to the rear, but, as their children have now left home, they have not felt the need to do so.
Hotch Potch is for sale via Lillicrap Chilcott – see more details and pictures.
Budock Vean review: A heavenly spot on the Helford Estuary
Kate Green recommends the Budock Vean on the Helford Estuary.
‘The most beautiful spot on Earth’ for sale as Sir Christopher Ondaatje puts Glenthorne on the market
Glenthorne, Sir Christopher Ondaatje’s picturesque house on the hilly north Devon coast that incorporatesthe best of Georgian, Tudor and ‘mystical
The secret beaches of the West Country where you can escape the crowds
If you're heading to the West Country this summer, here's our pick of the best beaches where you can enjoy
12 wonderful things to do in 2018 which showcase the very best of Britain
If you're looking to make more of life in Britain over the next 12 months, Country Life's suggestions are here
-
What Britain's top garden designers are planting now to create dazzling spring meadows around their homesNon Morris reveals the techniques behind the contemporary take on William Robinson’s original idea of naturalising bulbs in long grass, creating an effect even more dazzling than a meadow.
-
Medieval Italian? 19th century French? 16th century German? You're spoilt for choice if you're looking to buy a gorgeous continental castleFrom hills of Italy to a Bavarian palace, Toby Keel takes a look at three of the finest castles for sale across Europe today.
-
Medieval Italian? 19th century French? 16th century German? You're spoilt for choice if you're looking to buy a gorgeous continental castle
From hills of Italy to a Bavarian palace, Toby Keel takes a look at three of the finest castles for sale across Europe today.
-
How to buy a house at auctionBuying at auction can mean you secure your dream property for a bargain price, but preparation is the key
-
The homes of two 1980s TV icons are both up for sale at the same timeThe houses where Bob Monkhouse and Sir Terry Wogan spent decades of their lives are currently on the market. Annabel Dixon takes a look.
-
Living on the edge? A lighthouse for sale on a clifftop on one of the most remote islands in BritainBressay Lighthouse was built by the father and uncle of the 'Treasure Island' author.
-
Alan Titchmarsh is selling his Hampshire home (and the garden that comes with it): Exclusive pictures and interviewAfter many happy years in Hampshire, the writer, broadcaster and national treasure Alan Titchmarsh is selling up and looking to move. He spoke to Penny Churchill about his years at Manor Farm House.
-
A Lake District escape with views that will make you feel like the king of all you can seeMellguards's many guest rooms and dual staircases make this property perfect for people who love to host, but tire of their guests quickly.
-
One of Yorkshire's great houses, burnt to the ground three generations ago, is back on its feet and on the market for the sixth time in a millenniumPenny Churchill looks at Riseborough Hall, a great house, rich with fascinating history and beautifully apportioned, which burnt to the ground but rose again.
-
Seven magnificent homes from Cumbria to Devon, as seen in Country LifeOur regular look at the best homes to come to the market via Country Life in the past few weeks takes in a breathtaking Lake District house and a superb home in Northamptonshire.
