by Claire Corbett inOwner's TalesProperties

Owner’s Tale: 23 Florence Terrace

A space to think, create and relax
23 Florence Terrace is a colourful abode situated on the leafy, sought after streets of Florence Terrace in Falmouth. It’s a place in which to connect with vibrant Falmouth town and explore the subtropical gardens and close by creeks of the Helford River. 

This Regency Townhouse is spread out over three handsome floors, containing a treasure-trove of period features, three bedrooms and large living rooms perfect for laid-back living. We sat down with owner, Hannah, who told us about her fondness for the property and how she spends time in this vibrant part of Cornwall. 

Hi Hannah, we’re delighted to be able to talk with you and find out more about 23 Florence Terrace and your fondness for Falmouth and the Helford area. To begin, we’re fascinated to know what was the one thing that really made you fall in love with the property?

As soon as I step in the door I immediately relax. The house is unusually spacious and light and has an extraordinary feel about it. 

What makes 23 Florence Terrace the perfect getaway?

There are so many things that make Florence Terrace the perfect getaway. The location is great, the town and beaches are both a fifteen-minute walk away and going out for dinner is easy. Plus it’s a real treat to be able to start each morning with a swim. From the master bedroom, you can watch the sea and sky while still in bed, and the attic room has a panoramic view from the Castle at St Mawes, to the renowned rocks off the Lizard coast known as the Manacles.

What was your inspiration behind the interiors?

For environmental reasons, it was very important that I worked with what was already in the house. It has plenty of original features so in many ways it was easy, my job was to accentuate what was already there.

I also wanted to create a space to think, create and relax. The bedrooms, attic and hallways are painted in relaxing, soft tones. The sitting-come-dining room is the heart of the house, and I painted a warm coral, a colour which I also absolutely adore, to reflect this. 

What is your favourite way to spend time at 23 Florence Terrace?

Sitting in bed in the winter watching the sun coming up with a cup of tea.

How would you best describe Falmouth to someone who’s yet to visit?

There is the sea, of course, the harbour and beaches, and you can walk out along some of the most spectacular coast paths in either direction; the Helford estuary is my personal favourite. But Falmouth itself is a great town. There is so much going on. There are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and places to eat out, but there is also the dock, the university, various farmers’ market shops and a new music venue, the Cornish Bank. 

What are your favourite places to eat and drink in the local area?

The seafood bar, the Wheelhouse if you can get in, but also as a real treat to take the passenger ferry from outside the Ferry Boat to the Shipwrights Arms in Helford.

In your opinion when is the best time of year to visit Falmouth?

I love Falmouth in the winter when it is quieter but also during the changing seasons so early spring and late summer.

Do you have any tips on how to travel sustainably?

I usually take the train down and bring my bike. You have to book the bike space in advance but it’s wonderful to be able to ride out towards Mawnan Smith or Gweek if I have the time.

“The sitting-come-dining room is the heart of the house, and I painted a warm coral, a colour which I also absolutely adore, to reflect this.”

Unwind in the private, walled garden and dine al fresco to the sound of seabirds.

At Florence Terrace, town and country align handsomely – here is a generous Regency Townhouse within walking distance to the beach, with sea views out to the horizon.

From the artfully designed bespoke kitchen to the paintings, pottery and objets d’art that decorate the home, a stay at 23 Florence Terrace will stir the imagination and delight any visitor.

Large windows to the front face south to embrace sunlight throughout the day, you’ll soon understand why the unique quality of the Cornish light has proven to be so enduringly enchanting.

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