4.8★
Cornish Cottage Holidays rating
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4 Guests
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2 Bedrooms
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1 Bathroom
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Pets No
Features
- Off road parking
- Ground floor accommodation
- Garden / Patio
- Cot available
- Highchair available
- Pub/shop < 1 mile
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Seaside
- Broadband / WiFi
Reviews & Ratings
* Based on a combined average customer score
55 Customer Review(s)
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Margaret 
“Perfect for the 2 of us in a well thought out accommodation.”
You can walk down the hill to Charlestown and the supermarket is a five minute walk. We used both garden areas. Thank you for the welcome cream tea!
You can walk down the hill to Charlestown and the supermarket is a five minute walk. We used both garden areas. Thank you for the welcome cream tea!
- Margaret, June 2025 -
Cara “We had another great stay at the property.”
The property is very clean and well equipped. It is in a great location with parking. The owners communicate well and are very helpful.
- Cara, May 2025 -
John “On arrival at The Mackerel’s we felt immediately at ‘home’ the scones,jam and cream were a lovely surprise after a long travelling day.”
Everything we needed was provided and a perfect location for visiting places of interest. We were very comfortable during our stay plus the use of two little gardens were a delight. This perfect holiday home scored highly for us and comes well recommended. Thank you .
- John, May 2025Thank you for wonderful comments so glad you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
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Paul “A real cosy "home from home ".”
Very well equipped and comfortable. Central to all amenities and easy access to all roads. The Mackrell was spotless on arrival and the Cream tea in the fridge was most welcome. We will certainly return!! Sue and Paul.
- Paul, March 2025So glad you liked the house and have booked it for next year, you were most welcome. Property Owner
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Louise “Fantastic property, perfect for a couple.”
It was clean and cosy. Very handy for supermarkets and plenty to eat and drink 5min walk away. Very central position in Cornwall, minutes away from the A390 and 15 mins away from the A30.
- Louise, March 2025 -
Paul “Lovely Accomadation,”
- Paul, March 2025 -
Gordon “We were a bit disappointed with the cheap bedding in the main bedroom.”
Nothing matched. There should really be a thermostatic valve fitted to shower. as hot water is very hot. Lastly we would have liked to have been in control Of our heating. A very odd idea for someone to control it remotely.
- Gordon, February 2025Thank you for the review Gordon. We fully agree with your point regarding the shower / bath mixer tap. A replacement with thermostatic control is being fitted this week. As you have modified your review since first posting, it is hoped this is the right time to respond to the other issues you raise. Regarding bedding, it isn't unusual to find duvet covers, fitted sheets and pillow cases in complementary colour mixtures, we deliberately chose to do this in blue/grey/white. As an honest assessment, the bedding fits into the "standard" category, following 250+ guest stays, this is the first time a guest has raised the issue. We did keep in contact with you during your stay and everything did seem in order at that time. We regularly stay in holiday properties around the UK ourselves, the majority of which in our experience, now have a similar heating arrangement to The Mackerel. Again, when we checked with you, you were warm enough and had full access to the gas fire in the lounge for extra local heat. The two aspects you don't mention are value and location, both of which we must assume you were happy with. We put a deal of effort into making sure guests are happy so we do hope you will return one day Gordon. Property Owner
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William “Really enjoyed our stay in a warm and comfortable cottage.”
- William, December 2024 -
Colin “This is an amazing holiday let of a very high standard.”
Situated in an easily accessible area for touring and in walkable distance of the historic Harbour of Charlestown
- Colin, October 2024Thank you for the very positive comments Colin. Really pleased to hear you enjoyed your stay and made use of the easy access to Charlestown and beyond. We hope to welcome you back in the future. Jackie Property Owner
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Norma “The Mackerel was a lovely property and had everything we required.”
- Norma, September 2024So glad you enjoyed your stay. Jackie Property Owner
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Hazel “Excellent location, clean and tidy with everything we needed.”
A lovely suprise of fruit and cream tea waiting in the fridge on arrival. The only thing that would be helpful would be some hooks on the back of doors to hang wet towels.
- Hazel, August 2024Thank you for the feedback Hazel Glad to hear you found everything you needed. We have fitted a strong towel-rail above the bathroom radiator to help dry wet towels. Property Owner
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Melanie “Really lovely little place.”
Perfect location for touring the local area or walking into Charlestown. Exceptionally clean and fully equipped for a self catering stay. Hopefully we will return one day.
- Melanie, July 2024Thank you for the feedback Melanie. we hope to welcome you back. Property Owner
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Christine “We would recommend the property for it's comfort, cleanliness and ideal location within walking distance to variety of pubs and restaurants.”
- Christine, June 2024Thank you for your great feedback, so glad you found the house comfortable and made use of it being so close to the many amenities . Property Owner
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Cara “We had a great stay at the Mackerel.”
The property was very clean and well equipped. Great communication from the owners and brilliant location. Looking forward to coming back.
- Cara, May 2024So glad you enjoyed your stay and will be delighted to welcome you back. Jackie Property Owner
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Margaret “Already been in touch with owners so nothing more to add.”
- Margaret, April 2024It was lovely to hear you had a great time and that you were comfortable and had everything that you needed. Property Owner
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Andrew “The property was extremely clean and well maintained.”
There was a great house manual containing everything. The owner was great with her communications. There was extensive quantities of kitchen equipment, far exceeding anywhere, where we have stayed before. We did find one major drawback and we are both 70 years of age , was getting in and out if the bath without a handle. Due to health conditions we both struggled without a rail. We had our bath removed at home and now have a walk in shower. The holiday confirmed where we are with our health conditions. We did not use outside due to poor weather conditions for most if the week. We had the heating turned down as it was too hot for what we are used to. The owner set it at the same times and temperature we had it at home which was excellent
- Andrew, March 2024So glad you enjoyed your time at The Mackerel. Property Owner
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Maurice “Guests should have more input over heating controls which were operated remotely.”
Also a grabrail in the shower area would have been helpful, otherwise a lovely property.
- Maurice, September 2023Thank you for your thoughtful review Maurice The boiler was recently replaced so falls under the mandatory Boiler-Plus regulations requiring relatively complex Smart controls. We have tackled this by simplifying the controls to run on a constant temperature basis, removing the need for guests to download apps or input heating schedules etc. As the Mackerel is a modern, well-insulated property we have found this has worked well and we always contact guests to ensure the temperature is their liking. We have retained the gas fire in the lounge to provide additional local heat as required. While re-furbishing the bathroom we fitted a bath with twin grab-handles which we hope guests will find useful. Property Owner
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Simon “Lovely cosy property that is a perfect base for sightseeing around Cornwall.”
Throughly recommended!
- Simon, September 2023Thank you Simon pleased to hear you found The Mackerel an ideal starting point for your excursions. Property Owner
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David “We were exceptionally happy with our stay at the Mackerel.”
The Mackerel is on a small housing complex and very quiet. We had a fabulous fruit basket and cream tea awaiting us which we very much appreciated.We were very happy with our stay in Charlestown, such a lovely area of Cornwall and within a short radius of so many things to see and do. Host was very attentive and went out of her way to make sure we felt welcome. Would definitely recommend the Mackerel and Charlestown as a place to stay.
- David, August 2023So glad you were happy with the house ,its so near to many attractions and coastal walks . Property Owner
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Laura “The house was was great.”
Although we didn't cook much the kitchen was well kitted out. The garden space was lovely. The location was excellent being only a short walk to the harbour and all the lovely restaurants. The local area had lots to do and the local beaches were all great. Would very much recommend this property!!
- Laura, July 2023 -
Tina “Our holiday was beautiful and the property enhanced our stay.”
Everything was available to us, little home comforts, the welcome pack was a lovely touch...scones, jam and cream, the fruit basket was extremely fruitful. The host was amazing. Would definitely recommend this property x
- Tina, May 2023So glad you enjoyed your stay ,you were most welcome . Property Owner
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Pamela “All fine could do with hand bar in shower for the not so young!”
- Pamela, May 2023 -
Dennis “We found The Mackerel was a lovely well kept home and had everything we needed.”
Great location. Good value and would recommend.
- Dennis, May 2023 -
Kris “Excellent property,very clean and tidy with everything you need,an excellent ...”
Excellent property,very clean and tidy with everything you need,an excellent location for exploring Charlestown and the local area ,the owners are extremely helpful aswell 5*
- Kris, April 2023 -
Katie “Lovely little modern two bedroom house that provides everything a family of four (with young children) needs.”
The house is nicely decorated, well maintained and equipped with many thoughtful touches to help make your stay a wonderful one. Jackie the owner kept in touch just enough and provided a generous welcome basket of fruit, scones and Cornish clotted cream. Charlestown is a lovely village, very picturesque but with great places to eat and convenient for local attractions. I’d highly recommend the mackerel as a base for your Cornish holiday.
- Katie, March 2023Thank you for the kind comments and recommendation Katie. Pleased you found everything you needed and enjoyed your holiday. Jackie Property Owner
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Andrew “Pleasant stay in convenient location.”
All is as described and very clean and comfortable. Bed very comfortable, and rooms warm and well decorated. Good internet and TV connections. Recommended!
- Andrew, November 2022Thank you for the positive feedback Andrew. We would love to welcome you back. Jackie Property Owner
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Julia Elizabeth “This is a beautiful, sparkling clean, well equipped and provided cottage in an excellent location.”
The welcome treats were very kind and gladly received. Would definitely recommend.
- Julia Elizabeth, August 2022We are so pleased you enjoyed you stay Julia, thank you for the kind feedback Jackie Property Owner
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Kris “Really clean and very well equipped property, decent size and an excellent ...”
Really clean and very well equipped property, decent size and an excellent location for Charlestown and surrounding areas ,a few supermarkets close by aswell which makes things very easy , Charlestown itself was a big surprise lots of places to eat and very pretty and clean , will definitely be returning
- Kris, July 2022 -
Briony “Property is located on a residential estate and wouldn’t say it’s a rental house really.”
Located next to a train line as well which honks on its way past so be prepared for that as your alarm call. Property was clean enough with a fruit basket left and some scones from tesco. No washing up liquid or dish washer tablets left. These were in a locked tub with scourers. The rear is very small and the terrace claustrophobic as no sun on it. And makes the house very dark. The garden at the top is ok but didn’t really use and up some steep steel steps to get to. For what this place i I thought it was very over priced.
- Briony, July 2022We are sorry that some aspects of your visit did not meet your personal expectations.Some issues are clearly misunderstandings and to help future guests and encourage you to return we clarify the situation. We have tried to be honest and accurate with the property description which states :“2 bedroom house in a quiet residential area”There is, indeed a rail line running through Charlestown, but the property is not located next to the line. We accept that trains can be heard distantly, but this can be clarified through over 150 individual guest visits where no mention has been made. We are not aware of the elements of the cleaning that you found unsatisfactory, it is difficult for us to understand the low rating you afforded this part of your stay, even though you state it was “clean enough “. Welcome packs have to meet certain criteria and to help guests with allergies we have to ensure scones, cream and jam are labelled with the ingredients. [Natasha’s Law] Fruit is, of course, easier and for this visit we provided a whole pineapple, a melon, oranges, bananas, strawberries, grapes and nectarines. All cleaning products, dish washing consumables and scourers are kept in a locked box for child safety. The key for which is freely available as stated within the property information folder. The rear decking receives sun throughout the afternoon and during the very hot weather most guests have chosen to use the garden furniture here, rather than in the upper lawned area [ where there is a further garden bench]. In light of your comments we will provide an additional table and chairs for the upper lawned area which receives sun earlier and longer. The first floor windows are tinted for privacy, which may explain comments regarding the light. The property details do state that the upper garden is accessed via a stairway. The property is priced by Sykes to reflect the season, the location and the ability to park in Charlestown. Thank you for booking the Mackerel. Property Owner
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Michael “Lovely property, nice touch with the welcome fruit and cream tea.”
With in easy walk to Charlestown Quay. Perfectly positioned for touring Cornwall. Would definitely stop again.
- Michael, June 2022 -
Neale “Having stayed in many similar properties we would say that this is WITHOUT DOUBT the BEST we have ever experienced -- Mrs Schofield's care & thought for her guests is evident everywhere!”
!! -- THANK YOU AS ALWAYS Mrs S !!!!
- Neale, March 2022 -
Christine “Everything was first class.”
From the time we moved in until the time we moved out. We would have liked to stay another two months but it was already booked. The cleaning service did an outstanding job. The house was immaculate! The landlord checked several times to make sure that the heating was to our liking. I cannot think of anything to complain about. Charlestown is a charming place to live. The locals are extremely friendly. There is no shortage of places to go.
- Christine, March 2022 -
Douglas “It was good to find a full size fridge/freezer.”
There was everything you need in the property and is ideal for 2 people - adults might a bit more a squeeze in the lounge. The owner responded to queries very promptly and was very helpful.
- Douglas, October 2021 -
Gail “The house was in a perfect location for us, clean, comfortable with full amenities.”
Car parking a bit tight for a large car as opposite street parked on the road. Welcome package of cream scones and fruit greatly appreciated.
- Gail, September 2021 -
Janette “The property shouldn’t be described as a cottage - it is a very small modern terraced house on a housing estate, much smaller than photos lead you to believe.”
The parking space is tiny; our car only just fit on it and was practically touching the window of the house! The tiny seating area at the back got no direct sunlight and really wasn’t pleasant to sit in. We felt the property was very expensive for what it was. That said, it was beautifully clean, well equipped and nicely decorated.
- Janette, July 2021I am sorry to learn that the stay did you not match your expectations. I am somewhat perplexed by your comments surrounding the way the property is described as it states it is a "cosy contemporary house" and the front of the property is shown in the pictures. With reference to the parking, it is believed that many neighbours and previous occupants have managed to park rather large vehicles in this space without any trouble, apologies if you had any difficulty yourself. The seating area does manage to get direct sunlight in the afternoon and there is a lawned area further up the steps which receives sunlight throughout the course of the day. Thank you very much for your comments and for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. Customer feedback is very important to help us continually improve our standards. Property Owner
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Pat “A wonderful welcome pack from the owner was a lovely gift to have waiting for us when we arrived.”
How thoughtful! The cottage was very well placed for the village and for further afield. Would thoroughly recommend The Lost Gardens of Heligan, for a fabulous garden and Mevagissey, for a beautiful, working harbour. The facilities were excellent with everything you could possibly need. I only wish we lived closer for a repeat visit.
- Pat, June 2021 -
Simon “The Mackeral is a lovely small house in a great location.”
The house was clean, tidy and comfortable. The garden is up a flight of metal steps and is level with the first floor, there is a small yard outside the back door. The kitchen has everything that you would need. The heating cannot be turned on when required, it is set to come on twice per day. I messaged the property owner who happily set a third heating period. This isn’t great for a wet cold week in Cornwall, thankfully there is a gas fire in the lounge that we used to warm the house. The shower over the bath doesn’t have a thermostatic mixer so if somebody else uses a cold tap or flushes a toilet the shower temperature increases to very hot. Apart from these minor issues the house is great and has everything you would require for a comfortable stay. The cream tea was a very nice welcoming treat.
- Simon, April 2021 -
Jodie “This is a lovely little place with everything you could possibly need.”
It’s beautifully clean and looks newly refurbished. I had with me my partner and two (taller than me) teenage daughters who also enjoyed the cottage. We were welcomed with a package of scones, Jam and clotted Cornish cream, which was a lovely added extra. The pubs down then end of the main road were fab and had plenty to offer. Very picturesque place to stay. We ventured to all sorts from The Mackerel and it was a great base to go from. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Jackie the owner was also quick to respond to any message I sent her to, which is great communication.
- Jodie, August 2020 -
Beverley “A stunning village and an equally beautiful house.”
The owner has thought of everything and we felt very safe with our 2 children (7&2years) Safety gate, little steps up the the beds, plug in night lights & locks on cleaning products-brilliant! The house is a small walk from the stunning harbour, which is breathtaking. The sea is crystal clear and the beach is lovely. Will be back!
- Beverley, August 2020 -
Nicola “Wonderful home from home .”
. the hosts had thought of everything. Very good location for exploring Cornwall
- Nicola, July 2020 -
Sarah “Very comfortable and nicely decorated holiday cottage.”
Well managed and can’t find any fault really. WiFi did fall out a couple of times but a very minor issue. Many thanks!
- Sarah, April 2019 -
Lesley “The mackerel is a lovely cottage comfortable and well equipped.”
What made it extra special was the lovely decoration and splendid location. Near many attractions. Charlestown it’s self is lovely and historic. Lovely pubs. Arty shops. Ice creams and two beaches and a museum. Three supermarkets within 10 minuets drive. Marvellous would love to go again!u
- Lesley, March 2019 -
Avril “It was lovely right from beginning to end the cottage was peaceful and relaxing ...”
It was lovely right from beginning to end the cottage was peaceful and relaxing 5 mins walk from cottage to Charletown the children loved the facilities and wanted to stay longer definitely 5 stars from us
- Avril, February 2019 -
Julie “The cottage was fantastic, clean, modern and had everything we needed.”
It was a home from home and we thoroughly enjoyed our week there. We will definitely return and recommend to family and friends.
- Julie, November 2018 -
Jo “Fantastic little house which was perfect for our stay in Cornwall.”
Great location and the house was immaculate and very comfortable. Thank you so much.
- Jo, October 2018 -
Chris “Great location, lovely property, made my holiday easy and stres free.”
- Chris, October 2018 -
Yvonne “High quality cottage with excellent facilities.”
Well situated but pleased that my daughter was with me to park the car! Close to harbour and coffee shops and not far from supermarket.
- Yvonne, October 2018 -
Ruth “The Mackerel is a lovely property and ideally situated for the Harbour, which has a great selection of places to eat.”
Also the fish and chip shop, butchers and bakers in Holmbush are excellent. We'll be back!
- Ruth, May 2018 -
Chris “Lovely cottage.”
great location,
- Chris, February 2018 -
Ian “Very nice house, extremely clean and homely.”
Had a slight issue with the heating but the owners were very quick to offer a solution. We were not on holiday but had we been so this property is well located for a base and with the port practically on the doorstep you have a great first place to visit. Cant thank Jackie and her Husband enough for making our stay comfortable and for the advice given to us as new residents comers in Cornwall.
- Ian, November 2017 -
Derrick “We weren't sure what to expect of this property, but it certainly looked okay on the internet.”
However, when we arrived we were very pleasantly surprised. The property was very clean, had every appliance you might possibly have in your own home and more. Did we have any regrets about this booking? Absolutely not, and we not hesitate to recommend this property to anyone else. A short walk away down toward the Harbour are several restaurants that offered a wide range of choice, although we ended up in The Rashleigh Arms on more than one occasion. They have a wide range of food choices and a particularly nice Cornish Lager. In brief, if asked to provide feedback in three words it would be :- Excellent, Excellent, Excellent
- Derrick, November 2017 -
Francis “Everything needed for a self-catering holiday was available at the cottage and the premises were very clean, spacious and warm.”
- Francis, October 2017 -
Pip “Extremely comfortable and clean property - excellent location, would book again”
- Pip, September 2017 -
Brian “Very Helpful owners.”
Excellent local advice folder, offered additional help,. Fully equipped kitchen. Liked the welcoming scones!
- Brian, July 2017 -
Charles “Location very good.”
. Excellent bus services. We loved Charlestown.
- Charles, October 2016
Summary
- Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x twin
- Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
- Ground floor basin and WC
- Sitting room with gas fire
- Kitchen with dining area.
- Gas central heating with gas fire
- Electric oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, DVD, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs
- Fuel and power inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Highchair and stairgate
- Off road parking for 1 car with unlimited roadside parking opposite the property
- Split-level rear garden with lawned upper area and lower decked courtyard with furniture
- Sorry, no pets and no smoking
- Shop and pub 5 mins walk.
- Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping Bond of £100.00
The property
The Mackerel is a delightful cottage that offers warming accommodation for friends and family to come together and enjoy any time of year.
With the world-famous Georgian village and working port of Charlestown on your doorstep, along with the tropic biomes of the Eden Project and the golden bays of St Austell also close by; the location of this property is hard to beat.
Hidden down a quiet road, the house benefits from peace and quiet while only being a short walk from the village’s amenities, including the distinctive harbour.
You enter into the hallway before finding the bright and airy sitting room that hosts a refreshing, nautical-themed colour scheme.
The kitchen is finished to a high standard and includes a dining table for which you can gather at mealtimes.
Upstairs are the two bedrooms, a double and twin which are both tastefully decorated, along with the chic bathroom.
The decked courtyard with furniture is a relaxed spot and can even be used for some alfresco dining weather permitted.
From the property, take a short stroll into the village of Charlestown where you will find an excellent selection of cafés, restaurants, bistros and pubs with something for everyone.
Even closer by is the iconic harbour which has been used in many film projects; fans of the popular TV series Poldark will find the surroundings familiar as the harbour was used extensively throughout the show.
Charlestown also has a small beach but there are some grander choices in St Austell which can be reached in a short drive.
A wonderfully modern base set in a exciting location.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.
View on map
About the location
CHARLESTOWN
St. Austell 1.5 miles; Eden Project 2 miles; Truro 16 miles.
A delightful and much sought-after coastal village of stone cottages and Regency houses, on the south coast near St. Austell. Famous for its collection of tall ships riding at anchor in the harbour, the shipwreck museum, excellent pubs and restaurants and easy access to the coastal path, it’s the perfect holiday destination. It has even been used as a filming location, most well known for appearing in Poldark. The area is rich in golf courses with Carlyon Bay and Porthpean close by. The picturesque fishing village of Mevagissey is 20 minutes' drive away by car, while the Lost Gardens of Heligan, several stately homes and gardens and the fabulous Eden Project are all within 5 miles, with Newquay and North Cornwall coast only a 35 minute drive away by car.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping Bond of £100