About Kenegie Manor – a grand manor house in Cornwall

A grand and elegant building, Kenegie Manor house in Cornwall is steeped in history. Built over 500 years ago, our Cornish manor estate enjoys a prime location near Penzance. It has prospered over the centuries through the different families’ ownership.

It was first owned by the Tripconey family, who were at the helm until they became embroiled in the Cornish rebellion – with the house eventually being confiscated by the Crown. Kenegie Manor then passed into the hands of the Harris family who, under Elizabeth I, flourished. The house was expanded and the family were appointed Lieutentants of Cornwall by Sir Walter Raleigh and were given responsibility for defending St Michael’s Mount. However, Harris was later convicted for Royalist activities by Oliver Cromwell’s Parliamentary forces. The last male member of the Harris family died in 1775 and the estate transferred to William Arundell, who later changed his name to Harris.

In 1884 William Arundrell’s grandson sold Kenegie Manor to a London surgeon, who restored the property. But, due to his failing health in 1886 Kenegie then passed into the hands of the Bolitho family – who had made their fortune in Cornwall’s tin and copper mining heyday.

The family who visited the hills above Gulval in Tudor times and decided to build a mansion there must have been inspired – by the views over Mount’s Bay towards St Michael’s Mount, by the fields and countryside surrounding the estate and by the feelings of peace and calm which Kenegie Manor exudes.

A grand manor house in Cornwall

Not content with a mansion they clearly needed a summerhouse, built over 500 years ago to capitalise on the sea views. Still boasting Tudor features this summer house now claims the centre of the park, evoking the same atmosphere of mystery the original owners must have experienced.

In later years when the Harris family assumed their duties as guardians of the Mount what better place could they have found than Kenegie from which to fulfil their brief. Their hilltop retreat afforded them views over the bay giving them advanced warning of invading ships and pirate activity.

Whilst little has been written about the history of Kenegie local folklore tells it played its part in pivotal moments in Cornwall’s past life. Maintaining this heritage is of key importance to us here at Kenegie. Once again Kenegie is in the hands of a family which appreciates its location, its atmosphere and its place in history.

With the help of local friends of Kenegie we are now embarking on extensive research to uncover fully the history of this remarkable Estate in Cornwall so that visitors may fully appreciate not only the present day at Kenegie but also its undeniable historical significance.

Read what our guests say...

Best Holiday Yet! 🙂

Kenegie Manor has been our best holiday yet! I was a little apprehensive on arrival, as I always am when staying somewhere new, but I needn’t have worried. The staff were lovely, welcoming, and incredibly helpful throughout our stay.

We stayed in one of the barn conversions, which was spotlessly clean and had everything we needed. As it was self-catering, we really enjoyed being able to relax and prepare our own meals at our own pace.

The on-site restaurant served us the most delicious afternoon tea, which was a real treat. I also found the honesty shop extremely useful for picking up essentials. It’s cash-only, but you can easily settle the payment at the bar if needed.

The site itself is peaceful, quiet, and very family-oriented. There are plenty of facilities to enjoy, including mini golf, tennis courts, and a fantastic swimming pool. The sauna was an added bonus and one that my husband particularly loved!

The grounds are beautiful, well-maintained, and clearly cared for with great attention. The location is perfect too—close to Penzance, St Ives, and St Michael’s Mount, which is just down the hill.

This place is a hidden gem, and we will most definitely be returning.

KerrymariesD, May 2026, Tripadvisor