History of Commonwood Manor, Looe

One of Looe’s finest houses, Commonwood Manor is steeped in musical tradition and an inspirational place to stay, recharge, or do business

Commonwood Manor was built by an Italian/French merchant and musician in the style of an Italian villa with large airy rooms, most of which overlook a wonderful terrace with ten French doors maximizing the light which floods the ground floor and river-facing bedrooms.

Originally built around 1890 as a Victorian family home this beautiful house has reverted to its original name of Commonwood Manor. It was the first house in Cornwall to be constructed wholly of concrete – because the owner didn’t like fire!

HARRY-VARDON
Harry Vardon
Arthur Rubinstein (1971)
Arthur Rubenstein

The house, carved into the hillside overlooking the East Looe River, was designed to maximise the effect of its location and the ever-changing scenery. The façade of French windows invites the famous Cornish sunshine to reach deep into the heart of the house all day long and provide the clearest views over the river valley and beyond. A drive was formed for the horse drawn carriages and the immediate outlook around the house was then terraced into gardens.

Commonwood’s most illustrious owner was F. Lyde Caunter who lived here until 1955. A fine musician himself, famous aficionados of his day such as Arthur Rubenstein also stayed and played here. We continue the tradition with musical evenings around the grand piano in the hall and live events both inside and out.

F. Lyde Caunter was also a passionate golfer and his regular house guest, Harry Vardon, a former British Open Champion, designed and laid out the local Looe golf course whilst in residence. Today, we continue the association with Looe Golf Club with our golfing weekends.

The Manor has a comfortable lounge and bar in which to relax, read or enjoy a drink. We are fully licenced for drinks, entertainments, film shows, dancing and weddings.

We have 8 en-suite bedrooms available to travellers, visitors and wedding parties – all of which combine Italian elegance with modern en-suite facilities, and when we are hosting a wedding, reception or event, we reserve the entire property for you and your guests.