We have hand-picked what we believe to be the top 20 hotels in Cornwall. We have looked at a variety of needs and you will find that there is something here for everyone. From a romantic couples’ weekend, an active holiday, a family break or even a dog walking holiday.
Each hotel has its own appeal and a different vibe, and we have looked at the most popular locations in Cornwall. The reason this is the definitive guide is that we have in most cases been to the hotel ourselves. We know first-hand what to expect and therefore can truly recommend them to you.
Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay
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If you are looking for adults only luxury in a great location then this really is a great spot. The views are incredible and the Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is luxurious.
The ESPA spa is one of the key selling points here. You can choose from a selection of pampering treatments or just relax in the facilities that the spa has to offer such as the sauna or the hot tub. Dine in the restaurant and enjoy the views across the bay. You also have the choice to walk into Newquay which is on your doorstep and enjoy a whole host of restaurants and bars.
As you would expect in this luxury setting the rooms are designed to a high standard and the bathrooms include complimentary toiletries. There is parking and free wifi throughout.
I would recommend this hotel if you are a couple or group of adults seeking something special but within good distance of the lively town of Newquay so you can have the best of both worlds.
Lanhydrock Hotel and Golf Club
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A fantastic central location and a treat for golf lovers. Sitting less than a mile away from the Lanhydrock Estate house and close to the Eden Project. Nestled within the beautiful Cornish countryside this hotel offers stunning views across its own 18-hole golf course.
Ideal if you like to play Golf as you will get discounted entry and there is expert tuition available if you require it. If you don’t like golf then soak up the peace and quiet of the countryside in this secluded setting.
Even though the Lanhydrock Hotel is secluded you can still explore the region easily as it is located very centrally. It is not far to drive to get some of the fantastic attractions or coastline that Cornwall has to offer.
The rooms are modern and comfortable and free wifi is available too. The Nineteen Bistro is excellent and the bar also serves snacks, which is all you need to be able to relax and soak up in the countryside.
The Land’s End Hotel, Sennen
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If you are looking for something secluded and really coastal then this is the place. At the most westerly point of Cornwall and the last stop before New York, the Land’s End Hotel is located right on the cliffs of the famous Lands’ End.
The views will blow you away and you get a real sense of space with this hotel’s location. There is a town 1 mile away but the main town, Penzance, is around 10 minutes away by car. This is a great location for hiking, cycling or dog walking. This hotel is dog friendly, so you can tire your 4-legged friend each day with an amazing coastal walk.
You are brilliantly located to discover some of Cornwall’s hidden gems such as the Minack theatre, Kynance Cove and Porthcurno Beach.
There is free wifi in public areas and the rooms all come with flat-screen TVs. There is a restaurant and a bar so you can relax within the hotel if you chose to.
I would recommend the Land’s End Hotel if you are seeking some incredible sea views. It is also perfect if you want to have the feeling of being secluded away from any crowds.
The Rosevine, Porthscatho
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If you are looking for a hotel that caters to families in a quiet place with incredible views but not too far from the city of Truro then this is perfect. This is a more traditional Cornish hotel. It offers cosy communal areas with a wood burner for you to soak up the Cornish coastal atmosphere.
It has views over the incredible Rosevince coastline. You can relax while the children play in the multiple play areas provided by this stunning hotel. The beach and the village of Portscatho which features a pub and shop are within walking distance. Even if it rains this hotel has an indoor pool that you can enjoy with the whole family.
One of the best things about this is every apartment offers a kitchenette. You have the choice of whether to dine out or just make something for you and your little ones in your apartment. This is ideal for small children since you have facilities in your apartment to cater for them with milk bottles or snacks. The rooms have a microwave, kettle and toaster. The hotel is also dog friendly so you can bring the whole family on your holiday. There are some great walking spots, too.
This is a gem of a hotel for location and facilities. I would highly recommend if you have children or extended family joining you on your stay. This hotel offers the right balance between the Cornish relaxed vibe and activities to keep the whole family entertained.
St Michaels Resort, Falmouth
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In the fabulous location of Falmouth, this luxurious hotel is a real show stopper. The views are amazing and it is situated in a sub-tropical garden. The hotel is super stylish in the communal areas, the room and in its incredible spa which you can enjoy for a supplement.
This hotel offers a fantastic experience for either couples or families or groups of adults. Its location is great as it is opposite a beach. It is only a short walk into the bustling town centre of Falmouth which offers a great selection of bars and restaurants with phenomenal views over the marina and out to sea.
The spa is a total luxury as well as the health centre which has a 20-metre pool. The restaurant is award-winning and serves fantastic local produce.
There really is something for everyone in this amazing hotel, be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. I would highly recommend it if you are looking for something really special.
The Old Quay House Hotel, Fowey
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You can’t get much closer to the water than the Old Quay House. Situated in the gorgeous town of Fowey which itself is basically on the water this hotel really is a dream. If amazing food and stunning location are at the top of your list then this is the place for you.
The food is a real selling point here. They serve fresh produce here daily as well as a great breakfast and an extensive wine menu. The rooms are luxurious and many boast that incredible view. They also include free wifi.
The hotel is right in the middle of Fowey which features multiple restaurants and bars as well as a host of things you can do on the water. This really is an idyllic setting for an incredible Cornish experience, highly recommended for that magical Cornish break.
Greenbank Hotel, Falmouth
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This historic hotel dates back to 1640 which makes it the oldest hotel in Falmouth. The views are unbeatable in the area as the hotel is situated right on the water. Most of the rooms offer exceptional sea views. The communal dining and drinking areas also boast that incredible aspect to the ocean.
The Green Bank has obviously been modernised but keeps its historic charm throughout. Free wifi is available to all guests as well.
One of the best things about this hotel is the spacious rooms. It features seating areas, and have flat-screen TVs as well as tea and coffee facilities.
As you can imagine the restaurant has sensational views. It really is a show stopper if you want that romantic meal with the view. Falmouth a short walk away offers a real diverse selection of bars and restaurants as well as activities you can enjoy on the water.
If you are looking for somewhere with great sea views and the option to be close to somewhere a bit more lively then this is the place for you. I cannot recommend the views highly enough.
Carlyon Bay Hotel and Spa, St Austell
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Standing on the cliff overlooking St Austell bay this hotel has the feel of the south of France with its outlook over the English channel. This luxurious hotel provides the perfect setting to unwind and relax.
The spa is pure luxury and you can lose hours relaxing in the laid back setting which offers a steam room and hot tub as well as treatments that you can book in. This great family-friendly hotel also offers many other activities. They have tennis and golf with their own tennis court and golf course as well as play areas for kids.
Not only are the hotel grounds beautiful but the views beyond them are stunning of the sea and the Cornish coastline. The location is highly rated not just because of the stunning views but also the closeness to many of the best attractions in Cornwall such as the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Helligan.
Highly recommended if you have a family or are just a couple, either will find this hotel offers everything they will need. The award-winning restaurant can offer that fine dining experience but there are also more relaxed dining options available. The hotel is not far from St Austell town centre either so more restaurants and bars can be found in and around the area.
Headland Hotel, Newquay
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This iconic hotel overlooks the world-famous Fistral beach. It really is the place to go if you want to be pampered. Located on the beach which features restaurants and bars of its own this famous Victorian building is as impressive inside as it is out.
The hotel is grand in its décor and features a luxurious spa for guests to enjoy. State of the art treatment rooms compliment the other amazing facilities such as a Cornish salt room and Swedish sauna. You can even bring your dogs to this dog-friendly hotel. It provides the perfect beach for daily walks with your furry little friend.
The restaurant has been awarded 2 AA rosettes and offers a high-class dining experience. There are many other options to dine though with a more relaxed terrace. Bars and restaurants are just a stones’ throw away on Fistral beach including Rick Stein’s fish and chips. Afternoon tea options are also available as well as cocktails. All of the dining options are complimented with one of the best views in Cornwall.
This is the perfect place to relax but also the perfect place for those more active. The hotel has a surf school as well as other activities that guests can get stuck into on the water.
The rooms won’t disappoint either with free wifi and robes. There is also a space to sit and work and of course, most have that incredible sea view.
I would recommend this hotel if you want the best of both worlds. Luxury but adventure, epic views and on a cliff but 5 minutes’ walk from the centre of Newquay. This really is a stunning hotel that will deliver on every level.
Jamaica Inn, Bodmin
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High up on the rugged and beautiful Bodmin Moor. This hotel is steeped in history as it was an original smugglers inn. The inn has been made famous by the book written by Daphne Du Maurier called Jamaica inn which tells stories of the 19th-century smugglers. Location wise it is set in the dramatic countryside and just off the A30 so easy to get to. The location is central so you can easily visit any of the nearby towns like Bodmin, St Austell, Newquay as well as the coasts.
The rooms are mixed between traditional with period features and a modern twist. All rooms have free wifi and Sky TV channels including sports and movies. Although the location is pretty remote there are facilities on site like the bar and restaurant that you can enjoy. There is even a museum you can visit.
The perfect place hiking or cycling as you have the moors on your doorstep. You can even bring your dog with you as the Jamaica inn is pet friendly.
I recommend this hotel if you want something a bit different with some real character and history. The rooms will not disappoint you. The location is perfect if you want to explore, however you will need a car as the location is remote.
Atlantic Hotel, Newquay
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This iconic building stands out in Newquay town. You will recognise it if you have seen many pictures of Newquay as it features in many of the amazing views. Situated right on a peninsula with panoramic views that can’t be beaten. This really does offer that spectacular view that will blow you away every time you see it. It will really make you appreciate your destination by the sea.
Every room has a sea view. We highly recommend this hotel if the sea view is a real priority for you. It caters for families and is only a few minutes’ walk from the world-famous Fistral Beach and Rick Stein’s fish restaurant. Also a few minutes’ walk from the lively town of Newquay where day or night it never stops and caters for both families and couples or groups of friends. This hotel is even pet friendly so you won’t need to leave out your family dog.
Some of the other features are the spa and restaurant. You are only a stones’ throw away from most restaurants in Newquay. The location is beautiful as you have a real choice of beaches, restaurants, bars, activities and fun right on your doorstep without needing to get in a car.
The Pickwick Inn, Padstow
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Perfect location for a cycling or hiking holiday as well as exploring the many water activities available in the area. This hotel is in St Issey which is near to Padstow. It has views over the beach near Padstow as well as the rolling countryside.
Padstow has been made world-famous by chef Rick Stein and you can enjoy some fresh world-class seafood in his restaurant. You can even book a cooking lesson or just have some fish and chips from his chip shop all down in the harbour at Padstow. Padstow also offers other fine dining options such as Paul Ainsworth at number 6. Enjoy a boat trip from the harbour or just sit and enjoy a pint watching the world go by.
For excellent food look no further than the restaurant on the grounds of this hotel. Oliver’s restaurant offers fresh produce daily and a fantastic Sunday lunch.
The rooms are chic and most offer fantastic views. There is a kid’s play area too. Free wifi and parking are both available at this stunning countryside retreat. Great for walking and you can even bring your dog with you as this hotel will accept them.
The Alverton, Truro
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Situated in the middle of Truro City Centre, this old monastery converted into a hotel in 1984 is a 19th-century grade II listed building. There is a lot of history surrounding this country house and it really does deliver on this with its period features, original building and arched windows.
The hotel is set in the gorgeous grounds of this stunning house and you can enjoy them whilst enjoying a drink on the veranda or having a walk around these impressive gardens.
The hotel is in the middle of Truro and therefore minutes away from the only city in Cornwall. Truro has an excellent and varied selection of bars and restaurants as well as the stunning Truro Cathedral which dominates the sky line from wherever you are in this Cornish city.
The hotel is 4-star silver AA rated and the restaurant serves fine local food as well as Sunday lunch. You really get the feel of this historic building within its communal areas but the hotel has also been able to give that modern feel as well in its bar and restaurant.
If you want to be close to Truro this hotel really is the best in the area.
Polurrian on the Lizard
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This family-friendly hotel is nestled into the Cornish countryside overlooking Mounts bay and a few minutes’ walk from Mullion harbour. With ample grounds for you and your family to explore this hotel offers a great balance between countryside and coast.
Located deep into Cornwall this is an ideal spot to explore Kynance cove, the Minack theatre and Lands’ end as well as the Lizard peninsula. This hotel is pet friendly as well so feel free to bring your dog along for holiday they will never forget too.
The Polurrian offers leisure facilities and a cinema room to keep the whole family entertained. There is also a luxury spa so you can truly unwind in this picture-perfect setting.
The hotel has a restaurant and other communal areas and the rooms offer that bit of luxury too. The stunning views all around the property really makes this the relaxing family retreat that you will love staying in.
The Cornwall Hotel and Spa, St Austell
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Nestled in the countryside near the central location of St Austell, this stylish manor house is sure to catch your eye. With stunning views from the spa’s infinity pool included in your stay. Location wise it’s pretty central in Cornwall and minutes from the Eden Project as well as not too far from either coast to explore the finest beaches Cornwall has to offer. I would recommend this hotel if you are intending to venture out a lot as the location really lends itself to the explorer.
Having said that the hotel does offer a lot when you do want to relax and not venture out. Tennis, swimming and use of the luxurious spa. The restaurant is excellent and has been awarded an AA rosette for its food but there are more relaxed dining options in the bar and terrace.
Complementing the historic Manor house, the Cornwall offers modern, comfortable rooms all including flat-screen TVs and free wifi. The staff are incredibly friendly and will really make a difference to your stay. A classic hotel with a modern twist, highly recommended.
Tregenna Castle Hotel, St Ives
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This impressive castle resort is a stunning hotel and will really offer that wow factor for you on your holiday. With breath taking views of the town of St Ives and the Cornish coast this huge resort will have everything you will need for the perfect stay either as a family or for that luxurious couples retreat.
With multiple restaurants and bars as well as indoor and outdoor pools you can spend all day on this huge resort spanning over 72 acres with beautiful grounds.
The hotel design is classic with a modern twist. They have rooms and apartments available. Free wifi and parking are also available in this hotel.
The hotel speaks for itself here as you are literally staying in a castle which is amazing, as well as it being over the town of St Ives which is again beautiful. This hotel will really deliver if you are looking for something grand and special for your break away.
Portbyhan Hotel, Looe
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Sitting on the waterfront in Looe’s harbour the location of this hotel is sensational. You will not get any closer. As you can imagine the views from this hotel are majestic both from some of the rooms but also from the restaurant, bar and terrace.
Portbyhan can offer you the perfect setting to relax and unwind with some fantastic food and wine. It offers the perfect location to be able to explore Looe on foot, the river and the beach and the shops, bars and restaurants. It is also not far from a whole host of attractions, Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan, and Plymouth.
The rooms have tea and coffee making facilities and free wifi throughout the hotel. Some rooms also feature balconies with river views which we would highly recommend if you can get one.
The restaurant serves great food and there is a bar with live music so you can get all the entertainment you need right there under 1 roof. The Portbyhan also has a webcam so you can check out the views 24 hours a day and really get in the mood for your amazing picturesque break to Cornwall.
Bedruthan Hotel and Spa, Mawgan Porth
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This spectacular setting boasts amazing views from anywhere on the grounds of the hotel. It has a 4-star rating and is the perfect retreat for couples or families. Catering for families you can relax and unwind while your children are entertained. If you are after a romantic break the child free areas will leave you feeling relaxed and able to unwind in style.
The spa is luxurious and boasts those phenomenal views. The bar area offers local drinks and inventive cocktails. Featuring an award-winning restaurant you will love the food which you can enjoy while the sun sets over the bay right in front of you. The rooms are spacious with many offering a fantastic view, as well as the option to request bigger suites. Free wifi is standard and the bathrooms all come with free boutique toiletries.
You may find that you never need to leave the grounds as there is so much to do. You may want to venture onto the beach which sits in the village right in front of the hotel, which offers different dining options for you. A short drive to Newquay and Padstow, and not too far to venture to some great attractions such as the Eden Project and Merlin Golf course.
As we are an impartial site if you see a different hotel and would like our opinion then please get in touch and we will be happy to give you our opinion, having lived in Cornwall for our whole lives!
