A secluded space for exceptional events
Special occasions are worthy of a special event space. Polhawn Fort is just the place to celebrate in style, alongside those who mean the most to you.
Whether you’re planning a large-scale birthday party, an intimate anniversary dinner, a corporate ceremony or a relaxing wellness retreat, our Fort offers a welcoming space away from the outside world. For more solemn occasions such as funeral wakes, Polhawn Fort is a discreet destination to say your final farewell.
When it comes to retreat locations, it’s hard to find a more picturesque setting than Polhawn Fort. Secluded and soul-enriching, a few days spent here will work wonders on your wellbeing.
Hired exclusively for yoga, pilates and mindfulness retreats, we provide the space for wellness specialists to create a tailormade escape. A variety of indoor and outdoor spaces are available for dry hire, alongside accommodation for up to 24 guests.
If there’s a place to escape to and celebrate the good times, it’s Polhawn Fort. A sensational setting that’s steeped in history, our venue is fully set up for hosting parties of every kind.
In the warmer months, the oak-framed Summerhouse and lawn provide an idyllic space for al fresco events. Positioned cliffside between the Fort and the ocean, guests are greeted with far-reaching views overlooking the secluded cove.
Flooded with natural daylight, the Summerhouse is ideal for smaller events such as meetings, drinks receptions, art exhibitions and wellness classes, while the lawn lends itself to large-scale parties and sit-down dinners. A marquee can also be pitched on the lawn.
Our recommended suppliers know the Fort inside out and will be happy to arrange a site visit to talk through the plans for your event and suggest the most suitable options.
100
Seated
100
Standing
For indoor events, The Fort offers two inviting spaces. Larger parties can be hosted in the Grand Napoleonic Hall seating up to 100 guests, while the Ocean's Room is ideal for small, intimate events for up to 30 guests.
The warm, earthy tones of the Fort’s natural stone provide a blank canvas backdrop. Style the space with elaborate decorations or keep it elegantly understated. The choice is yours.
100
Seated
100
Standing
Perfect for pre or post ceremony gatherings, The Terrace is a stretch-tent space on the roof of the Fort. Decorated with fairy lights and surrounded by lush vegetation, it’s the ideal place to relax and reminisce.
Due to our coastal location and occasional strong winds, there may be times when The Terrace is unavailable. Guests will be notified 24 hours before your event should adverse weather conditions affect the use of the space.
75, 64 and 80 guests
Seated Options for
100
Standing
While here, we invite you to do as much or as little as you like. Soak up the Cornish sun by day and star gaze by night. Go wild swimming in the ocean or enjoy a soothing soundbath by the bay. Take a leisurely hike along the South-West coastal path toward the ancient Rame Head, or meander through the Grade One gardens at Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. There’s more than enough to fill a few days here and you’ll find the very best of Cornwall within easy reach.
Local activities
Available for stays midweek or over the weekend, Polhawn Fort comfortably sleeps 16 guests within the exclusive hire agreement. Need extra beds? Let us know as we can often accommodate an additional eight guests.
Stay Here
A family owned and managed venue, Polhawn Fort’s approach is friendly and free-spirited. We believe weddings and events should be fun and a true expression of yourself. That’s why we try to keep rules and restrictions to a minimum, allowing you to use the space as you wish.
Our Approach
Built in 1867, originally as a deterrent to Napoleon III, Polhawn Fort was designed with strength, security and longevity in mind. The threat of a hostile landing on Whitsand Bay was over before the build was complete, so the Fort has never seen battle. Since then, the building has been reimagined as a private home, guest house, hotel and wedding venue.
The History
Why Polhawn
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Walk or hop in the car to the traditional twin fishing villages of Kingsand and Cawsand. Once a haven for smugglers and otherwise known as the ‘Forgotten Corner’, the villages are reminiscent of times gone by.
The south-west coastal path runs behind and above the Fort, heading west toward Looe and East around the Rame Peninsula toward the ancient land and sea-mark, Rame Head.
A neighbour to Polhawn Fort, Mount Edgcumbe Country Park is a stately home with several hundred acres of Grade I listed gardens to explore. A short drive away lies Antony House, a 18th-century National Trust property with 60 acres of woodland and a tea room.
Polhawn Fort is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by the sea and an unspoilt landscape. Take a wild swim in the ocean and watch the sunset from the west-facing lawn.