Location

Location
Situated approximately 4 miles southwest of Truro, Baldhu offers easy access to both Cornish coasts, which are just 10 miles apart at this point. Residents can enjoy activities such as cliffside walks at St Agnes or early morning sailing on Restronguet Creek. The immediate surroundings are surprisingly rural, considering Baldhu's proximity to Truro. Neighboring properties include those with historical ties to the church, such as the former rectory and the former school, now operating as a children's day nursery.

Truro city centre provides a diverse range of shopping facilities and restaurants, along with a mainline rail link to London Paddington. Approximately 8 miles to the south lies the town of Falmouth, renowned for its excellent maritime facilities.

Description

Tower House stands as a remarkable residence thought to date back to 1847, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern functionality. Meticulously converted, this home offers expansive and luminous living spaces that captivate from the moment you step inside.

Exterior and previous restoration in 2008

Externally, the property has undergone extensive restoration, including a roof that incorporates original Delabole slates on the outermost slopes, complemented by slates on the inner sections. Additionally, a rainwater system has been installed. The renovations have also facilitated the integration of insulation throughout the building, meeting contemporary standards. The elevations are crafted from local stone with lime mortar, echoing the architectural style of 19th-century Cornish mine engine houses.

To the rear there is a delightful patio which bathes in morning sun, perfect for enjoying breakfast or lunch surrounded by the lovely wild flora and wildlife.

Interior Features

Spanning over 4000 sq ft., the accommodation is designed to impress. A standout feature is the galleried ground-floor living room, which boasts slate flooring, a Scan wood-burning stove, and a full-height ceiling with exposed roof trusses and limestone columns. The original pulpit adds a unique historical touch to the space.

The generously sized kitchen is bathed in natural light, courtesy of eastern-facing leaded glass windows that filter in the morning sun. Strategically placed roof windows throughout the home not only illuminate the interiors but also offer close-up views of the impressive church tower. One such window leads to a romantic and atmospheric 'Rapunzelesque' bedroom suite nestled just below the stone broached spire and belfry.

Architectural and historical information

St Michael and All Angels Church was constructed in 1847 for the Reverend William Haslam on land provided by the Earl of Falmouth. Designed by the renowned Ecclesiastical Gothic Revival architect William White, the church was intended to serve as the focal point for a new community centered around the proposed Baldhu Mine. The name "Baldhu" is derived from the Cornish term for 'Black Mine'. However, the mine did not thrive, and the anticipated community did not materialize, leading to the church's isolation from a regular congregation.

Architecturally, the church is a fine example of Gothic Revival design, featuring lime-pointed random granite walls forming the nave, chancel, and south aisle under two parallel roofs. The structure is crowned with a three-stage tower and broach spire constructed of dressed limestone ashlar. Dressed limestone is also utilized for all columns, arches, doorways, and windows, the latter of which are particularly elegant with reticulated stone tracery and latticed leaded glazing.

The quality of design, materials, and workmanship in parish churches is exceptional, and conversions of such buildings to residential use are relatively rare. The Church Commissioners have confirmed that only one other parish church in Cornwall has been converted to residential use. Therefore, the opportunity to acquire such a quintessentially English and Cornish building is indeed a rare event.

The Grade II* Listed status of 'Tower House' underscores the architectural importance of the building. The "star" designation indicates the church's particular significance, and consequently, English Heritage has taken a keen interest in its preservation.

Directions

From Truro, follow the road South West up Lemon Street and Falmouth Road. Use the double mini roundabout to join the A39. Follow this road for roughly 1.5 miles and take the second right sign posted 'Kea Church'. Follow Pound Lane for roughly 3 miles. Take the wide entrance on the left and follow to the end of the road, where Tower House is located on the right.

Distances (are approximate and in miles).

Truro - 5.1 miles
Falmouth - 10 miles
Perranporth 8.5 miles
Cornwall airport Newquay - 23.4 miles