Project

Gunwalloe Project

Last updated:: 31 March 2024

The exterior of Winnianton Farmhouse, Cornwall | © National Trust/Mike Henton

Since the beginning of the Winnianton land restoration project in 2019, Winnianton Farmhouse has been successfully converted into a holiday cottage. The next stage of the plan is to manage and develop the 90 acres of surrounding farmland and other outbuildings, with wildlife and nature as a priority.

Plans prioritising nature

Following the ending of a farm tenancy at Gunwalloe in October 2018, a great opportunity materialised for the National Trust.

Plans were formulated to manage the 36.4 hectares (90 acres) of farmland at Winnianton Farm with nature as a priority, and to investigate ideas for how the farm buildings could be best used in the future.

Farmhouse conversion to holiday cottage

Works to repair and renovate Winnianton Farmhouse began in November 2019 and finished in April 2021. It is now a fantastic holiday cottage available for bookings.

The house operates as a six-sleeper holiday cottage, giving visitors a unique opportunity to stay in a very special setting. Income raised from this will help to support further important conservation work.

Farm buildings

Dismantling of the modern farm buildings has been completed, revealing the traditional stone buildings of the farm and opening views across the reedbed.

We continue to work with expert consultants to gain a better understanding of the impacts of climate change, water levels and the archaeology of the site. We have also commissioned an architect to develop the concept design of the whole site and bring to life the vision for Gunwalloe. They are helping visualise initial design ideas into a detailed, viable plan to restore the land for nature, improve access and adapt the existing farm buildings to provide public, visitor and community benefit.

Our vision is for a nature rich, climate adaptive, sustainable and accessible site which breathes life back into the beautiful redundant stone buildings to create a hub for our communities and visitors, providing the space and facilities for everyone to enjoy time in the outdoors.

The next stage is to explore all avenues for the site including the option to relocate and improve the toilets and café and access for visitors.

Working for nature, people and climate

This year we’ll be expanding woodland strips and re-planting an orchard which was removed a century ago. We’ll also be fencing to create a new circular footpath route through the coastal side of the land, which will be opened for use later this summer.

Look out for flocks of Linnets using the winter bird seed crops behind Halzephron Head, and Fieldfares and Redwings feeding on uncut hedgerows.

Land management plan

A plan for the land management of the surrounding 90 acres is being developed and will include silage and hay cutting as part of an ongoing regime to encourage a wider mix of grasses and wildflowers to benefit wildlife.

For any additional information on the Gunwalloe Project update please contact the property office on 01326 222170 or email lizardandpenrose@nationaltrust.org.uk