10 bed detached house for sale

Cape Cornwall, St. Just, Penzance, Cornwall TR19

Built in 1909 for Captain Francis Oats, the former chairman of De Beers, Porthledden is a magnificent Grade II listed coastal home occupying an elevated position above Cape Cornwall. Commanding spectacular uninterrupted sea views, this striking English Renaissance-style residence has undergone a careful and comprehensive restoration over the past two decades, blending historic architecture with modern comfort.

The house is entered via an impressive oak-panelled reception hall, complete with a galleried landing and fireplace, setting the tone for the rest of the home. The principal reception rooms offer generous proportions and panoramic views across the Atlantic, with both the drawing room and dining room opening onto a west-facing stone terrace. Original fireplaces, timber detailing, and large sash windows create an elegant, light-filled atmosphere throughout.

At the heart of the home lies a beautifully appointed bespoke kitchen by Rozen, featuring granite worktops and an electric aga with companion module. This space connects naturally to the dining room and outdoor entertaining areas, making it ideal for both informal family living and formal occasions.

The accommodation is arranged across two upper floors, with seven bedrooms in total. The first floor houses two principal bedroom suites, each with glorious sea views and well-appointed bathrooms. The remaining five bedrooms are positioned above, ensuring flexibility for families, guests, or multi-generational living, with most rooms benefitting from the elevated coastal outlook.

Guest Apartment
Discreetly linked to the main residence is a self-contained guest apartment, finished to the same exceptional standard. This versatile space includes three bedrooms, a vaulted kitchen/dining room, utility area, a private sitting room, and a luxurious principal suite with captivating views across the coastline—making it ideal for extended family, visitors, or staff accommodation.

Gardens and Grounds
Porthledden is set within approximately 7.2 acres of private grounds, approached via a long, tree-lined private drive. A formal walled garden sits adjacent to the house and includes raised beds, a newly constructed greenhouse, and abundant planting. The expansive coastal gardens sweep gently towards the cliff edge, with the large west-facing terrace providing a spectacular setting for al fresco dining and watching the sun set over the Atlantic.

Equestrian Facilities and Outbuildings
The wider estate includes three well-maintained paddocks and a smart stable block comprising two loose boxes, a tack room, and a versatile barn area. A triple-width garage with hardwood sliding doors provides secure vehicle storage and additional flexibility for hobbies or equipment. All outbuildings have been constructed in keeping with the main house and offer scope for conversion or alternative use, subject to planning.

Porthledden occupies a truly commanding position above Cape Cornwall, where dramatic cliffs meet the rolling Atlantic Ocean in one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in Cornwall. With uninterrupted panoramic sea views—stretching to the Isles of Scilly on a clear day—this unique setting offers both privacy and proximity to nature, directly overlooking Priest's Cove and with immediate access to the South West Coast Path, one of the UK's most iconic walking routes.

Just one mile inland lies the historic town of St Just, a thriving local community with independent shops, traditional pubs, and a growing reputation for its vibrant arts scene. The town provides convenient amenities while maintaining its character and charm, and it serves as a gateway to the wider beauty of West Cornwall.

The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. The golden surf beaches of Sennen Cove and Gwenver are a short drive away, as are the fishing villages of Mousehole and Newlyn, offering artisan shops, seafood restaurants, and galleries. For theatre lovers, the open-air Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs above Porthcurno, offers a spectacular backdrop for live performances.

Transport links are excellent for such a remote and peaceful setting. Penzance, approximately 7 miles to the east, offers a full range of services including supermarkets, restaurants, and mainline rail connections to London Paddington, making Porthledden both accessible and secluded—a rare combination on this part of the Cornish coast.

This area of West Cornwall is prized for its wild, unspoilt beauty, and offers a lifestyle immersed in nature, history, and seascape—whether you're exploring coastal trails, sailing local waters, or simply enjoying the ever-changing light and weather from your terrace.