Welcome to The Barley Mill; A little fairytale hidden deep within the wilds of Cornwall. Tucked away in the Marsland Nature Reserve, just metres from the Devon border, The Barley Mill is an enchanting 19th-century Cornish mill surrounded by ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and the gentle sound of the river. Described by guests as something straight out of a fairytale — think Hansel & Gretel, but with a rather more comfortable bed — The Barley Mill is one of the very few holiday cottages nestled within the reserve itself. It is a truly magical place to escape. From the Mill, you can look out across the ancient woodland and simply slow down. Listen to the river flowing past, watch the light change through the trees, curl up with a book or step outside and let the wildness of Marsland do the rest. And then there is the coast. From the front door, a beautiful mile-long walk winds through the woods and follows the river all the way to Marsland Mouth Beach — a secluded stretch of coastline accessible only on foot. It feels wonderfully undiscovered. But the coast is only a tiny part of what makes this corner of Cornwall so special. The Marsland Nature Reserve has been described as: “A magical, secretive mix of woodland, one of the UK’s wildest coastlines and butterfly-filled meadows — all in a single stream valley.” With an abundance of walks right from the front door, there is adventure for all ages and abilities without ever needing to get in the car. And when you do want to explore further afield, Bude and Clovelly are both around 12 miles away, with countless beaches, coastal walks and outdoor adventures in between.
The Barley Mill was bought by Amy & William Searle in 2021 and lovingly transformed before welcoming its first guests in 2023. It became the third property in their collection, joining Celyn, perched on the side of a mountain in Snowdonia, and No.4 Coastguard Cottages, sitting dramatically on the clifftops of Porthgwarra near Land’s End. The brief for their cottages has always been simple: Unique. Historical. And very, very wild.
And now, just a short walk down the lane, their next property has joined it. Rosemarsland, newly refurbished and welcoming guests from 2026, sleeps nine and sits within the same magical landscape. The two properties are close enough to make them perfect for families or groups wanting to holiday together, but are tucked away so privately that you can’t see or hear Rosemarsland from The Barley Mill. So if you’re looking to bring the whole family — four-legged members included — Rosemarsland may be the perfect companion to your stay at The Barley Mill. Or perhaps you simply want The Barley Mill all to yourself. Either way, you’ll be staying somewhere rather special. A real-life fairytale, hidden in one of Cornwall’s wildest corners.
SLEEP
Sleeps two in a double bed.
All linen provided.
WASH & DRY
We do not have Washer or Dryer but we have a drying cupboard for wet walking gear.
SOAK
Shower room with WC, sink & shower. Towels provided.
EAT
Fully equipped kitchen with hob, combi-microwave, fridge / small freezer. (NO cooker)
PARKING
There's parking. The lane to the Mil is narrow & steep.
OUTSIDE
Balcony & Garden with spectacular views. Outdoor seating & firepit provided.
CONNECT
We have superfast Fibre Wifi
RELAX
Cosy lounge with log burner (initial fuel provided) , 2 seater sofa & smart TV.
