Figuring out how much is a lodge to buy at stonerush lakes is the first step on a journey towards owning a slice of Cornish paradise. It’s a question that goes far beyond a simple price tag; it’s about understanding the entire commitment to a new way of life. This guide is designed to give you a complete picture, moving from the initial purchase to the ongoing joys and responsibilities. We’ll delve into the reality of holiday home ownership, exploring what makes the Cornwall lifestyle so magnetic. Crucially, we will also analyse the investment potential of these properties, breaking down the essential running costs and annual site fees so you can make a decision with complete confidence.
Contents
- What Are Owners Saying About Their Stonerush Lakes Experience?
- What is the Upfront Cost of a Lodge at Stonerush Lakes?
- Beyond the Sticker Price: Understanding the Annual Running Costs
- Can You Make Money from Your Stonerush Lakes Lodge?
- Is Buying a Lodge at Stonerush Lakes the Right Move for You?
- How Does Stonerush Lakes Compare to Other Cornish Parks?
- The Buying Process Explained: From Viewing to Handover
- Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Lodge at Stonerush Lakes
What Are Owners Saying About Their Stonerush Lakes Experience?
Before diving into the financials, it’s incredibly insightful to hear directly from those who have already made the leap. The general consensus from the community of owners at Stonerush Lakes is overwhelmingly positive, often highlighting a sense of peace and escape that’s hard to quantify. Many speak of the ‘Stonerush effect’ – that feeling of leaving the world behind as you drive down the winding country lanes to the park. They frequently praise the park’s meticulous maintenance and the feeling of being nestled within a private, natural sanctuary, far from the bustling tourist crowds yet close enough to enjoy all that Cornwall has to offer. The on-site restaurant, The Old Mill, also receives consistent acclaim as a fantastic hub for owners to socialise and enjoy a high-quality meal without ever having to leave the valley.
However, it’s not just about the idyllic setting. Owners often express satisfaction with the quality of the lodges themselves, noting the high-spec finishes and thoughtful layouts. A recurring theme is the value found in the privacy of each plot, with clever landscaping ensuring that your deck and hot tub feel like a personal retreat. While the initial investment is significant, many owners feel the unparalleled access to nature, the strong sense of community, and the sheer quality of the environment provide a return that goes far beyond monetary value. They see it as an investment in their well-being and family time.
What is the Upfront Cost of a Lodge at Stonerush Lakes?
Getting down to brass tacks, the initial purchase price is, of course, the largest single outlay. The cost to buy a lodge at Stonerush Lakes can vary significantly based on several key factors, including its size, age, specific location within the park, and the level of finish. As a general guide for 2025, you should anticipate a price range starting from around £120,000 for a well-maintained pre-owned lodge, stretching upwards to over £300,000 for a brand new, top-of-the-range model with a premium lakeside position and all the latest features.
It’s a wide spectrum, and your position on it will depend entirely on your personal budget and requirements. The entry-level prices often represent fantastic value, giving you access to the same stunning location and facilities as the more expensive lodges. At the higher end, you’re paying for more space, cutting-edge design, bespoke features, and often, a more secluded or picturesque plot. It’s crucial to view a range of options to truly understand what your money gets you and to find the perfect balance between cost and features for your family.
New vs. Pre-Owned Lodges: A Price Breakdown
The choice between a brand new or a pre-owned lodge is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and it has a major impact on the price. A brand-new lodge offers the allure of being the very first owner. You get to specify certain finishes, enjoy the latest designs in interior décor and energy efficiency, and benefit from a full manufacturer’s warranty. This peace of mind and customisation comes at a premium, placing these lodges at the higher end of the price scale, typically starting from £180,000 and rising from there.
On the other hand, the pre-owned market at Stonerush Lakes offers an excellent route to ownership for a more accessible price point. These lodges, often only a few years old, have been lovingly cared for by their previous owners and are usually sold in immaculate condition. You might find a pre-owned lodge that already includes sought-after extras like a mature garden, upgraded decking, or a high-end hot tub, all factored into a price that can be £30,000 to £60,000 less than its brand-new equivalent. This can be a very savvy way to join the Stonerush community while making your budget stretch further.
What’s Included in the Purchase Price?
One of the most appealing aspects of buying a lodge at a premium park like Stonerush Lakes is that the advertised price is typically for a ‘turn-key’ solution. This means the figure you see isn’t just for the lodge itself but includes a comprehensive package designed to get you enjoying your holiday home from day one. The price almost always includes the lodge being fully sited and connected to all mains services like water, electricity, and drainage, which is a significant undertaking.
Furthermore, the package usually encompasses the large wooden decking area, which is essential for enjoying the indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Many listings, especially for the newer models, will also include a private hot tub integrated into the decking. Inside, the lodges are sold fully furnished, right down to the kitchen appliances, beds, sofas, and dining furniture. Often, the first year’s site fees and insurance are also bundled into the deal, providing clarity and peace of mind for your initial year of ownership. It is always vital to confirm the exact inventory with the sales team, but you can generally expect a very complete and ready-to-use holiday home.
Expert Insight: Eleanor Vance, a Cornwall property specialist, notes, “When buyers ask about the price of a lodge at a park like Stonerush Lakes, I advise them to look at the total value proposition, not just the headline number. The price includes the plot, the infrastructure, the security, and the immaculately kept environment. It’s a managed asset in a prime location, and that’s a significant part of what you’re investing in.”
Beyond the Sticker Price: Understanding the Annual Running Costs
The initial purchase price is just the beginning of the financial story. To budget effectively for your holiday home, you must have a clear understanding of the annual running costs. These are the recurring expenses that keep your lodge secure, maintained, and ready for you to enjoy. Neglecting to factor these in can lead to surprises down the line, so it’s wise to get a full breakdown from the park management before you commit. These costs cover everything from the ground rent for your beautiful plot to the gas and electricity you use while you’re there.
These annual outgoings are a standard part of holiday lodge ownership across the UK and ensure the park is maintained to the high standards you fell in love with. They cover the costs of landscaping, security, waste management, and the upkeep of communal facilities like the restaurant and reception. While it’s an extra column in your budget, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your significant investment is being looked after year-round is, for most owners, well worth the price.
The Nitty-Gritty of Site Fees
Site fees, sometimes referred to as pitch fees or ground rent, are the most significant annual running cost. This is the fee you pay to the park owner for the right to site your lodge on their land and for the use and maintenance of the entire park’s infrastructure and facilities. For a prestigious location like Stonerush Lakes, with its stunning water features, extensive woodland, and high-end amenities, you can expect the annual site fees for 2025 to be in the region of £5,000 to £7,000.
This fee is typically paid annually, though some parks offer monthly payment plans. It’s important to ask how and when these fees are reviewed, as they will likely increase over time, often in line with inflation. The site fee is a direct investment into the quality of your own experience; it ensures the grounds are pristine, the security is in place, and the exclusive environment you bought into is preserved.
Factoring in Utilities and Insurance
Just like at home, you will be responsible for the utilities you use in your lodge. This includes electricity, gas (which is often supplied via LPG bottles or a central tank), and water. The total cost will naturally depend on how often you use your lodge and whether you decide to rent it out. As a rough estimate, owners typically budget between £800 and £1,500 per year for utilities. Modern lodges are built to high standards of insulation, which helps to keep these costs manageable.
Specialist insurance is also a mandatory requirement of ownership. You will need a policy that covers not only the structure of the lodge and its contents but also includes public liability cover. This is particularly important if you plan to let your lodge to holidaymakers. Policies are readily available from specialist providers, and you should budget approximately £300 to £500 per year for comprehensive cover. The park office can often recommend reputable insurers who are familiar with Stonerush Lakes.
Maintenance and Unexpected Repairs
While new lodges come with warranties, and all lodges at Stonerush are built to last, it’s prudent to set aside a small fund for ongoing maintenance and occasional repairs. This could be for things like re-staining your decking every couple of years to protect it from the Cornish weather, servicing the boiler, or replacing an appliance that’s out of warranty. A sensible approach is to budget around 1% of your lodge’s value per year for maintenance. So, for a £150,000 lodge, setting aside £1,500 annually would create a healthy fund to cover both routine upkeep and any unexpected issues, ensuring your holiday home remains in perfect condition.
Can You Make Money from Your Stonerush Lakes Lodge?
For many prospective buyers, the ability to generate a rental income is a key factor in the decision-making process. The fantastic news is that Stonerush Lakes is an incredibly popular holiday destination, and its lodges are in high demand on the rental market. Letting your lodge can provide a significant income stream that can help to offset your annual running costs, and in some cases, even contribute towards your initial investment. The park’s 12-month season means you have the potential to earn income throughout the year, not just during the peak summer months.
The park offers a fully managed letting service, which can be an attractive, hassle-free option for owners who live further away or simply don’t want to deal with the logistics of marketing, bookings, changeovers, and guest communication. While this service comes with a management fee, it provides a seamless experience, ensuring your lodge is cared for and your guests have a professional point of contact. This can be a brilliant way to make your asset work for you when you’re not using it yourself.
Expert Insight: Eleanor Vance adds, “The holiday let market in Cornwall remains incredibly robust. A key advantage of a managed park like Stonerush Lakes is the brand recognition and marketing power they bring. An independent cottage owner has to build their reputation from scratch, whereas a lodge at Stonerush instantly benefits from the park’s established reputation for quality, which can lead to higher occupancy rates and premium rental yields.”
Exploring the Holiday Letting Potential
The rental potential of a lodge at Stonerush Lakes is strong, thanks to its combination of a tranquil, high-quality environment and its excellent location for exploring Cornwall. A two-bedroom lodge can achieve weekly rental rates from £700 in the low season up to £2,000 or more during the peak school summer holidays. Lodges with premium features, like a prime lakeside view or a larger hot tub, can often command higher prices.
When calculating potential income, it’s important to be realistic about occupancy rates. While you might achieve near 100% occupancy in July and August, this will naturally dip during the quieter months. A well-marketed lodge could realistically aim for 20-30 weeks of bookings per year, especially if you employ dynamic pricing strategies. The key is balancing your personal use with the most profitable letting periods to achieve your financial goals.
A Realistic Look at Rental Income and Management Fees
If you opt for the park’s managed letting scheme, you will need to factor in their commission. This is typically a percentage of the gross rental income, often around 20-25% plus VAT. In return, they handle everything from national marketing campaigns to cleaning, laundry, and maintenance call-outs. When you do the sums, you might find that the net income after fees is less than you’d get by managing it yourself, but it comes without any of the hard work.
For example, if your lodge generates £25,000 in gross rental income over a year, a 25% management fee would amount to £6,250. You would receive £18,750, from which you still need to pay your other running costs like utilities and insurance. It’s a trade-off between time and money. For many owners, the convenience of the managed service is invaluable and makes the entire ownership experience more enjoyable.
Is Buying a Lodge at Stonerush Lakes the Right Move for You?
This is the ultimate question, and the answer is deeply personal. Financially, it’s a significant commitment that requires careful budgeting. However, the decision rarely comes down to just the numbers. It’s about the lifestyle and the priceless memories you’ll create. It’s about having a sanctuary you can escape to whenever you need a break, a place where you can switch off, reconnect with nature, and spend quality time with loved ones.
Owning a lodge at Stonerush Lakes is an investment in your quality of life. It’s for those who value peace over crowds, nature over nightlife. It’s for people who dream of morning coffees on a misty lakeside deck and evenings stargazing from a bubbling hot tub. If that vision resonates with you, and the financials align with your budget, then it could very well be the perfect move.
The Lifestyle Benefits: Peace, Nature, and Cornish Charm
The lifestyle offered at Stonerush Lakes is its unique selling point. The park is designed as a tranquil escape. You won’t find noisy clubhouses or arcades here. Instead, you’ll find acres of managed woodland, stunning lakes, and winding streams. It’s a haven for wildlife and a paradise for those who enjoy walking, fishing, or simply reading a book on their deck while listening to the birds.
This peaceful seclusion doesn’t mean isolation. You are perfectly positioned to explore the best of Cornwall. The charming fishing villages of Fowey and Polperro are just a short drive away, as are the world-famous Eden Project and the stunning beaches of the south coast. It offers the perfect blend: a private, peaceful base from which to launch your Cornish adventures.
The Financial Commitment: A Long-Term Perspective
Buying a holiday lodge should be viewed as a medium to long-term commitment. While lodges do hold their value well, particularly in prime locations like Stonerush Lakes, they are a depreciating asset, unlike a traditional brick-and-mortar property. The market is more akin to the car or boat market. You are buying it primarily for the leisure and lifestyle benefits.
The financial commitment extends beyond the purchase and running costs to the length of the site licence agreement, which is the period you are permitted to keep your lodge on the park. For a new lodge, this is often 50 years or more, providing long-term security. When considering a pre-owned lodge, it’s crucial to check how many years are remaining on the licence, as this can affect its value and your future plans.
How Does Stonerush Lakes Compare to Other Cornish Parks?
When considering a purchase, it’s always wise to compare the market. Stonerush Lakes occupies a specific niche, focusing on luxury, tranquillity, and nature. Here’s a brief comparison with other types of parks you might find in Cornwall:
| Feature | Stonerush Lakes | Typical Coastal Holiday Park | Smaller, Independent Park |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Tranquil, luxury, nature-focused | Family-friendly, lively, entertainment-focused | Quiet, basic, often rural |
| Price Range | £120,000 – £300,000+ | £60,000 – £200,000 | £50,000 – £150,000 |
| Site Fees | High-end (£5k – £7k) | Mid-range (£4k – £6k) | Lower-end (£2.5k – £4k) |
| Facilities | High-quality restaurant, nature trails | Pool, clubhouse, kids’ clubs, bar | Often minimal facilities |
| Rental Potential | Strong, high-end market | Very strong, volume market | Variable, depends on location |
The Buying Process Explained: From Viewing to Handover
The process of buying a lodge at Stonerush Lakes is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable.
- Initial Enquiry & Visit: The first step is to contact the park’s sales team to discuss your requirements and arrange a visit. This is the most important part of the process – you need to experience the park’s unique atmosphere for yourself.
- Viewing Lodges: During your visit, you’ll be shown a selection of new and pre-owned lodges that fit your budget. Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and imagine your family using the space.
- Choosing Your Lodge & Plot: Once you’ve found the perfect lodge, you’ll select your plot (if buying new) or confirm the existing plot (if pre-owned).
- The Financials: The sales team will provide a full, transparent breakdown of all costs, including the purchase price, site fees, and any other associated charges. You’ll then typically pay a deposit to reserve your chosen lodge.
- Legal & Paperwork: You will sign a purchase agreement, which is a legally binding contract. It’s a comprehensive document that outlines the terms of sale and the park rules. It is highly recommended to have a solicitor who is experienced in holiday park purchases review this document.
- Completion & Handover: Once the final balance is paid, a handover day will be arranged. The team will walk you through your new lodge, showing you how everything works, from the heating to the hot tub. Then, they hand you the keys, and your holiday home adventure begins!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Lodge at Stonerush Lakes
What is the typical lease length for a lodge at Stonerush Lakes?
For a brand-new lodge, the site licence agreement is typically for 50 years. For pre-owned lodges, you inherit the remainder of the original term. This provides excellent long-term security for your investment.
Can I live in my lodge at Stonerush Lakes all year round?
Stonerush Lakes holds a holiday park licence, not a residential one. This means that while you can use your lodge for holidays throughout the 12-month season, it cannot be your primary, permanent residence. You will need to provide proof of a main residential address elsewhere.
Are pets allowed in the lodges?
Yes, Stonerush Lakes is a very dog-friendly park. Owners are welcome to bring their pets to enjoy the fantastic woodland walks and the beautiful Cornish countryside. There are, of course, park rules to ensure the enjoyment of all owners, such as keeping dogs on a lead in the main areas.
Is finance available for purchasing a lodge?
While the park itself does not offer direct finance, they can put you in touch with specialist third-party finance companies that are experienced in lending for holiday lodge purchases. It’s always a good idea to explore your own funding options as well.
The journey to answering the question of how much is a lodge to buy at stonerush lakes reveals that it’s a comprehensive investment in a lifestyle. It requires a clear understanding of the initial price, the crucial annual running costs, and the potential for rental income. By balancing the tangible costs with the invaluable benefits of peace, nature, and creating lasting family memories in one of the UK’s most beautiful corners, you can determine if this exceptional Cornish retreat is the right choice for you.
Comments
Name: Arthur Pendleton
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: We completed our purchase on a pre-owned lodge here in May 2024 and couldn’t be happier. The sales process was transparent, and the running costs were explained clearly from the start. The peace and quiet are exactly what we were looking for. Waking up to the sound of the stream outside is priceless.
Name: Beatrice Croft
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: We let our lodge through the park’s managed scheme and it has been seamless. We booked out 12 weeks between June and September 2023 which covered our site fees and a bit more. The cleaning and maintenance are always done to a very high standard. A fantastic, hassle-free investment for us.
Name: Simon and Clara Hayes
Rating: ★★★★☆
Comment: We love our lodge and the beautiful surroundings. The Old Mill restaurant is a real gem. Our only slight critique is that the Wi-Fi can be a bit patchy, which is understandable given the valley location, but something to be aware of if you need to work. Otherwise, it’s a 10/10 from us.
Name: Fiona Gaskell
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: As a solo owner, the security and sense of community were huge factors for me. I purchased in late 2023 and have always felt completely safe. The grounds team do an incredible job; the park is always immaculate. It’s my perfect escape from city life in Bristol.
Name: The Robertson Family
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: We bought a new 3-bedroom lodge in spring 2024. The upfront cost was significant, but seeing the kids’ faces as they explored the woods and saw the wildlife made it worth every penny. The quality of the build is superb, and the hot tub is a massive hit with everyone.
Name: Martin Edwards
Rating: ★★★★☆
Comment: A beautiful, well-maintained park. The fishing is excellent. Be prepared for the site fees; they are at the higher end for Cornwall, but you can see where the money is spent. The quality of the environment is second to none.
Name: Helena Vance
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: We looked at several parks before choosing Stonerush Lakes in August 2023. Nothing else came close in terms of the tranquillity and the quality of the setting. It doesn’t feel like a typical holiday park; it feels like an exclusive, private estate.
Name: David Chen
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: The team here are fantastic. We had a minor issue with our boiler a few months after we bought our lodge in January 2024, and the park’s maintenance team had it sorted within hours. That level of service gives you real peace of mind.
Name: Isabelle Fournier
Rating: ★★★★☆
Comment: The lodges are stunning and the location is a dream. The only challenge is the narrow country lanes leading to the park, especially in peak season. You get used to it, but it was a bit of a surprise on our first visit!
Name: Roger Blackwood
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: We’ve owned our lodge since 2022 and have never regretted it. It’s our happy place. Watching the seasons change across the lake is magical. The annual costs are predictable and fair for the quality of the park. Highly recommended.
