On the edge of the village of St Kew, Skisdon is a Grade II Listed manor house, part of which dates back to the mid-1300s. Once the home of the Victorian novelist Mary Elizabeth Braddon, Skisdon sits in three acres of beautiful grounds. A paradise for children (take care around the small stream), there are several hidden spots where guests can relax. There are many established and mature shrubs and some lovely old trees – beech, oak and London plane. The Owner, who extends a country house style welcome to guests, lives in the main house and the five spacious, cottage-style apartments (which have been awarded the English Tourism Council Quality Grading and Classification Scheme rating of Four Stars) are found in the two separate wings. Each of the three apartments are surprisingly separate, all with their own entrance. Apple Tree, Wistaria and Rosemary encompass the entire east wing, and can be combined to provide accommodation for fifteen people. It could therefore be appealing for several families wishing to holiday together. There are many pubs and restaurants within a short drive serving good food – or why not buy from a farm shop? The spectacular north Cornwall coast is four miles distant and it is thirty minutes’ drive to the Eden Project. This Owner also owns Quick’s End (983) in south Devon.