From The Mousehole Cat to Horne’s Place Oast and Barn: A Literary Journey Between Cornwall and Kent
There are some holiday homes that offer more than beautiful surroundings and memorable stays. Some carry stories within their walls—stories that connect places, people and cherished memories across generations.
At Stay Ca Holidays, we are fortunate to care for two such special properties: St Clements Cottage in Mousehole, Cornwall, and Horne’s Place Oast & Barn in Appledore, Kent. What makes their connection truly remarkable is that both are linked by one of Britain’s most beloved children’s authors, Antonia Barber, creator of the timeless Cornish classic The Mousehole Cat.
Many guests are surprised to discover that long before Horne’s Place Oast became the much-loved holiday retreat it is today, it was once owned by Antonia Barber herself. In fact, it was Barber who encouraged the current owner to buy a property in Mousehole—creating a unique thread that now links these two exceptional holiday destinations.
The Author Behind a Cornish Classic
Published in 1990 and beautifully illustrated by Nicola Bayley, The Mousehole Cat has become one of Cornwall’s most treasured stories. Inspired by the legendary tale of fisherman Tom Bawcock, it tells the story of a fierce winter storm that leaves the villagers of Mousehole facing hunger and hardship.
As the storms rage and no boat dares leave the harbour, Tom Bawcock decides to risk the sea to save his community. Accompanied by his faithful cat, Mouser, he battles the elements and returns with enough fish to feed the village. According to legend, the catch was baked into a giant pie, inspiring the famous Tom Bawcock’s Eve celebrations that still take place in Mousehole every December.
At its heart, The Mousehole Cat is a story about courage, community, loyalty and hope. It captures the spirit of Cornwall and the resilience of the people who have lived by the sea for centuries.
It is easy to understand why generations of readers have fallen in love with the tale—and why so many visitors are drawn to Mousehole to experience its magic for themselves.
Antonia Barber’s Love Affair with Mousehole
For Antonia Barber, Mousehole was much more than inspiration for a book. It was one of her favourite places in the world.
Like many who visit, she found peace here. The village offered a welcome escape from the noise and demands of everyday life—a place where she could rest, reflect and work quietly. Even today, Mousehole retains that sense of stepping away from modern distractions. The occasional wavering phone signal and patchy Wi-Fi only add to its charm, encouraging visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in their surroundings.
Whether Barber wrote sections of The Mousehole Cat while staying at Horne’s Place Oast is impossible to know for certain. What we do know is that the property was once her home, making it a fascinating destination for readers and literary enthusiasts alike.
To stay at Horne’s Place Oast is to walk in the footsteps of the author whose words helped bring Mousehole’s legends to life for countless children and adults around the world.
Mousehole and Appledore: Kindred Spirits by the Water
At first glance, Mousehole in Cornwall and Appledore in Kent seem worlds apart.
Mousehole sits on Cornwall’s rugged south-western coast, wrapped around a tiny harbour and protected by granite sea walls. Appledore lies beside the marshes and waterways of Kent which wind their way towards the sea.
Yet the two places share a surprising number of similarities.
Both are historic waterside communities shaped by centuries of maritime heritage. Both are places where life has always revolved around the water. Both are full of characterful buildings and offer a sense that time moves a little more slowly.
Most importantly, both offer visitors the opportunity to disconnect from busy modern lives and reconnect with what really matters: family, friends, nature and making memories together.
Discovering the Magic of Mousehole
Once known as Porth Enys, meaning “Port of the Island”, Mousehole has one of the richest maritime histories in Cornwall.
For centuries it was the principal port in Mount’s Bay, long before neighbouring Newlyn and Penzance grew into the larger towns they are today. Evidence of its fishing heritage can still be seen everywhere—from the colourful boats in the harbour to the weathered granite cottages lining its narrow streets.
Today, visitors fall in love with Mousehole for many reasons.
There are the winding lanes adorned with flowers and art galleries. There is the picturesque harbour, where children crab from the quayside and families gather to watch the tide roll in. There is the small crescent-shaped sandy beach that emerges at low tide, creating the perfect spot for paddling and exploring.
Just east of the harbour lies Mousehole’s famous tidal sea pool, naturally flushed by the sea and offering one of Cornwall’s most unique swimming experiences.
As evening falls, the village glows with a special atmosphere. The harbour lights reflect on the water, fishing boats gently bob in the tide, and it becomes easy to imagine the world of Tom Bawcock and Mouser coming alive around you.
Two Extraordinary Places to Stay
St Clements Cottage, Mousehole
Perfectly positioned to enjoy everything Mousehole has to offer, St Clements Cottage places guests within easy walking distance of the harbour, beach, sea pool, restaurants and galleries. Wake to the sound of gulls, spend your days exploring Cornwall’s spectacular coastline, and return to the timeless charm of one of Britain’s most enchanting fishing villages.
Horne’s Place Oast & Barn, Appledore
Equally memorable, Horne’s Place Oast & Barn offers something altogether different. This magnificent converted oast house combines historic character with exceptional facilities, including a heated indoor swimming pool, extensive grounds, beautiful countryside views and its own boating lake. Ideal for large family gatherings, celebrations and special occasions, it provides space to create unforgettable memories while enjoying a fascinating connection to one of Britain’s best-loved authors.
Following in Antonia Barber’s Footsteps
There is something wonderfully fitting about the connection between these two properties.
One was owned by the author who brought Mousehole’s most famous legend to life. The other sits in the village that inspired her imagination and remained one of her favourite places to escape, unwind and write.
Together they tell a story that spans two counties, two coastlines and generations of readers.
Whether you choose the literary charm of Horne’s Place Oast & Barn or the enchanting seaside magic of St Clements Cottage, you’ll be experiencing places linked by a remarkable story—one that begins with a brave fisherman, a faithful cat, and a village whose legends continue to capture hearts today.