Waterhead Cottage, East Portlemouth

About this property

Set on the peaceful waterfront of the Salcombe Estuary in East Portlemouth, Waterhead Cottage is a beautifully renovated coastal retreat sleeping up to 10 guests across five spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms. With breathtaking estuary views, a private terrace for alfresco dining, mooring for a hired boat, and parking for three cars, it’s an idyllic escape for families, friends and their dogs. Surrounded by nature yet just minutes from Salcombe by boat, this magical waterside cottage is perfect for memorable gatherings and adventure-filled coastal holidays.

Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Salcombe Estuary in East Portlemouth, Waterhead Cottage enjoys an exceptional waterfront position with uninterrupted views across the water and the surrounding Devon countryside.

From the doorstep you can explore sandy beaches along the East Portlemouth shoreline, hire a boat and discover hidden coves along the estuary, or follow the South West Coast Path for breathtaking coastal walks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife including seabirds, seals and occasionally dolphins. Whether crabbing by the water’s edge, fishing from the shore or setting out for a family walk, the setting invites guests of all ages to connect with nature.

Beautifully renovated with thoughtful coastal touches, Waterhead Cottage comfortably sleeps up to 10 guests across five spacious bedrooms, all with charming water or countryside views. The property is also dog friendly, making it ideal for families wanting to bring their four-legged companions along for the adventure.

Accessed via a private track, the cottage opens into a light and airy hallway with a practical boot room designed for coastal living. Here you’ll find a Belfast sink, washing machine, tumble dryer and plenty of space for wellies, dry robes and beach gear after days by the water.

Leading from the hallway is a peaceful ground-floor bedroom with a super king bed and French doors opening onto the wraparound terrace. This tranquil room enjoys the gentle sounds of the estuary and has a spacious en suite shower room with a rainfall shower, basin and WC.

The heart of the cottage is the open-plan kitchen, dining and living area. Large doors frame the spectacular waterside views and open onto the terrace, creating a seamless connection between inside and out. The fully equipped kitchen features a modern range oven, kitchen island, dishwasher, additional Smeg refrigerator and wine chiller, perfect for preparing relaxed family meals using fresh seafood from Salcombe. The generous dining table seats ten comfortably, while plush sofas and armchairs invite everyone to gather and unwind after a day of adventure.

For quieter moments, a cosy family snug with woodburner, Smart TV and beanbags offers a relaxed space to watch a film, read a book or simply unwind.

Upstairs you’ll find four further bedrooms, all enjoying pretty waterside views. These include a king bedroom with an en suite shower room, a super king bedroom, and two flexible super king/twin rooms ideal for children or friends sharing. Each room has ample storage and thoughtful details such as reading lamps, artwork and charming antique touches.

Also on the first floor are a luxury family bathroom with bath and starry tiles, perfect for soaking tired legs after coastal walks, as well as an additional family shower room.

Outside, Waterhead Cottage offers a private garden and wraparound terrace with outdoor seating, ideal for long alfresco meals or relaxed evenings watching the changing light across the estuary. A traditional Asado grill provides the perfect excuse for barbecues, with local produce from Salcombe’s butchers and fishmongers making every meal feel special.

Salcombe itself is just five minutes away by boat, making it easy to pop across the water for morning coffee, fresh pastries or an afternoon wander through the town’s independent shops.

Need to know:

Sleeps 10 guests

5 bedrooms

3 bathrooms plus additional cloakroom facilities

Private waterfront location overlooking the Salcombe Estuary

Wraparound terrace and garden with outdoor dining and BBQ

Mooring available for a hired boat

Parking for up to 3 cars

Two dogs welcome (additional fee applies)

Two travel cots and high chairs available on request

Small things to note:

Access to the cottage is via a steep track below the parking area. Practical footwear is recommended and younger children or elderly guests may need assistance. A handrail is provided partway down the track.

Parking for three cars is located at the top of the track on the opposite side of the lane.

The cottage is in a peaceful rural setting, so a car is recommended for visiting local pubs and restaurants. The Millbrook Inn, Gara Rock Hotel and The Pigs Nose are all within a 10–15 minute drive.