This romantic, waterfront holiday house is comfortably furnished with books, paintings and items of family history. Every room has a peaceful river view; unique and unspoilt country side surrounds the house. Bishops Quay is a tiny riverside hamlet; there are only four houses here. The ever changing scene is of the tidal estuary with fascinating river birds and small boats to watch, from window, balcony or water. Lovely local beaches and gardens to visit are nearby. Many artists and craftspeople work in this area, and there are is an excellent farm shop within walking distance. It is a hugely popular self catering rental that draws guests to return, summer, autumn, winter and springtime. Over three centuries of history belong to Bishops Quay, now just waiting for you to discover and enjoy.

Afternoon tea, drinks and supper can be taken on the riverside patio or on the balcony in the long summer days when the sun stays shining on Bishops Quay until it sets behind the field opposite. The views from the house are of the quay, fields, boats, water and woods.


This large, long property is two homes, one of which is offered for holidays. There are only four houses in this tiny hamlet.

Because we also offer an extra room, for a higher rate, groups of around six can come or just a couple; this flexible set up suits many kinds of party. A family group of three generations can spread themselves comfortably or a couple alone can enjoy the main house for a special relaxing break.

We offer guests the use of several boats to explore further and to visit the pretty places down river, Helford, Frenchman's Creek, and The Ferryboat Inn. There is a 16' 8hp motor bass boat, a small 10' sailing dinghy and a 9' traditional rowing boat. Also we have three canoes that you can enjoy. These are all used at your own risk and we ask for a contribution for fuel and running costs when the motor boat is used. We have a full selection of buoyancy aids to lend to guests. All except the motor boat are put away for the winter from November until Easter. Some guests enjoy using the boats and others just enjoy looking at them, they are there ready for whenever they are required.

Swimming and Fishing are possible from the jetty and quay, also from the boats. Many guests have brought their own boats here - there is a slipway to launch from and a mooring that can be used. Boats can be used four hours either side of high water and tide tables are provided. We can help you to plan your trips, it is good to be on the water here when the tide is high and exploring the local beaches perhaps when the tide is low. You can also go out on the tide and return on it later.

Children love to go crabbing from the quayside with line and bacon. They can sail toy boats and paddle along the beach below the garden. We have fire baskets that burn logs for extra warmth when sitting outside by the BBQ and plenty of chairs, benches and tables.

The garden is private and pretty with a small lawn, terrace and path, enclosed with a gate. Steps lead down from the balcony to this. Roses, shrubs, bulbs, annuals and colourful pots fill the garden. There are garden lights for evening enjoyment.

Bishops Quay is a three bedroomed house - having one large bedroom with king size bed, a twin bedded room and a bunk bedroom - however for an extra 1/3 of the stated weekly cost - another large airy studio bedroom suite with its own warm cosy bathroom (including bath with shower over), balcony, door to quay, tv, well stocked bookshelves and comfortable furniture can be used.

This room has a king size bed and is popular with groups who need more sleeping space for adults. If you would like more information do call or email.

The house is not suitable for the disabled as there are steps. Also it is so close to the water that it may not be suitable for children who cannot swim. All boating and swimming is At Your Own Risk. The smaller boats are put away for the Winter from the end of October until Easter time.

Because the house is right beside the creek the living accommodation is set on the first and second floors. the rooms below on the ground floor are store rooms only. Guests can leave equipment, boots etc in these rooms which are warm and dry - dogs too when they are to be left alone or are wet.

We are pleased to accept well behaved dogs who will enjoy the many lovely walks nearby and can be exercised along the 1/4 mile lane from the house to the road. Dogs should not be left alone inside the house when you go out, there is a warm room they can stay in on the ground floor. Dogs should also be kept well under control and not left to roam around the property without their masters.

We the owners live next door and are around to help if you need us. We are committed to the house running smoothly and will do our best to immediately correct any snags that may occur.

The main quay is used by the two fishing boats, so you will hear and see the activity. Regina Maris and Sardia Louise each have a crew of two, setting out to catch lobsters, crabs, monk fish, turbot and other delicious species. We can sometimes supply fish to you they we are at sea.

There is an open fire in the living room and we provide logs for you, they are kept in the utility room just beside the kitchen. The central heating is efficient and guests can choose how much or little they like to use it. The house is very comfortable and well cared for.
Usefully, guests can order their Tesco shopping on line for delivery during their visit to Bishops Quay, or say from 10 am onwards on the day of arrival - let us know it is coming and we will put this away for you on Saturday if you are not here when it arrives. Also we have details of a friendly flexible catering service who would be happy to deliver ready made meals for you - details will be sent with other info on booking. The house is set up with all domestic requirements - kitchen and laundry supplies etc. A tea tray and some home baking will greet you on arrival.

Address : Bishops Quay St. Martin Helston Cornwall

Zip / Postal code : TR12 6DF