Our Guide to the Top Bed & Breakfasts in Cornwall

Welcome to our bespoke section exploring some of the best B&B’s in Cornwall. The fact that we have grown up in this beautiful county gives us and therefore you the edge on selecting a great bed and breakfast for you and your family. What we have looked at here is a selection of bed and breakfast facilities across the county that vary in their location and appeal.

The bed and breakfast option is sometimes a more cost-effective way to holiday in Cornwall. Most bed and breakfast owners welcome you into their homes and really give you that personal homely feel.

We know that Cornwall appeals to so many different people in different ways so we have looked at a selection in some of the best areas, so whether its stunning coastline that you want, quaint villages, luxury accommodation or open space in the country Cornwall Holidays has you covered with this guide.

Portmellon Cove Guesthouse, Mevagissey

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Mevagissey is a charming Cornish fishing village right set on a picturesque harbour. It really does ooze with Cornish charm. It is an idyllic setting to have a relaxing Cornish break with your loved one or your family. Although a quiet fishing town, Mevagissey does have bars and restaurants that you can enjoy as well as a walk through the quaint town and along the harbour.

The bed and breakfast itself offers high spec rooms which include smart TVs and echo dot speakers. The bathrooms have heated floors and free toiletries and all rooms have a stunning sea view. There are beautiful gardens that you can enjoy and a terrace that you can use to have a glass of wine and look at the sun setting right in front of you. Free wifi and a great breakfast are also on offer.

This really is a gorgeous little retreat in a small but pretty setting. It is not far from the Lost Gardens of Heligan or the Eden project but you will need a car to explore both of these attractions and the rest of Cornwall. If you want to have a relaxing, quiet setting and really unwind then this is definitely the place for you.

Ten Ocean View, St Ives

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St Ives is a very popular picturesque coastal town in West Cornwall. A great location to be able to explore some of the best attractions and beaches in West Cornwall. The Minack Theatre and Kynance Cove is not too far. Land’s End and St Michaels Mount are also within driving distance for a great day out.

If you want to stay in St Ives you won’t be disappointed as the beach area is gorgeous. There are many bars and restaurants for you to experience. With world-class views across the stunning bay of St Ives, enjoy a Cornish Pasty or a Cornish luxury ice cream while you relax on the beach all day.

The guest house itself features gorgeous views across Porthmeor Beach and over to St Ives. All come with a TV, iPod docking station, free wifi and a private bathroom as well as free entry into the world-famous Tate Gallery. A great place for a beach break with your family or as a couple, with loads to do on your doorstep and a gorgeous coastal sea view.

The Old Inn, Mullion

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This traditional old Cornish pub will give you that cosy stay. It is situated on the Lizard Peninsula so you are in a great position to explore the West of Cornwall here. Land’s End, the Minack Theatre and St Michael’s mount are on your doorstep as well as Flambards and St Ives.

The pub offers food and drinks all locally sourced for you to enjoy. A fantastic full breakfast is on offer each morning. Pack lunches are also available at your request if you are going out for a long walk or to spend the day on the nearby stunning beaches. The rooms all feature a private bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities. Free wifi and parking are also available.

I would highly recommend this pub if you are a family as you have a lot of family attractions nearby to enjoy. You also have the pub in the establishment so you can relax there at night without having to take your family out for the evening. It will also suit couples who want to walk, cycle or enjoy activities on the water.

Estoril, Penzance

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Penzance sits right on the west side of Cornwall and is close to many great attractions such as Land’s End, The Minack Theatre and St Michael’s Mount. Penzance itself is right on a quay and has great views out to sea. There are many restaurants and bars as well as shops in the town of Penzance so plenty to keep you occupied on your doorstep too.

This Victorian building boasts a lot of its original features. It is decorated in a classical way to reflect the history of its buildings. Each room has its own private bathroom, free wifi and are all decorated individually. Some have stunning sea views too, request when you book.

There are gardens and a communal area for you to relax in if you wish. The couple that runs the guest house is very welcoming, well-travelled with a Buddhist outlook on life. They will ensure you have everything that you need throughout your stay.

This guest house is in a fantastic location to explore the town of Penzance as you are right in the heart of it. It is also well situated for walking or cycling. There are also many different water activities such as sailing or boat trips. I think if you are either a couple or a family then you can be happy and this would be a very good choice for you.

The Broadmead B&B, Falmouth

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This Victorian house is set in the seaside town of Falmouth. Falmouth itself is a vibrant town with many bars and restaurants. It features an impressive marina and coastline with gorgeous beaches too. Everything you will want from your Cornish seaside break if you want to be able to be within walking distance to all of this.

The Broadmead is only a short walk to the town centre and the coastline. You can leave your car at the guest house as there is free parking. Go off and explore with your family and even your dog as this bed and breakfast is dog friendly. The Maritime Museum is close by too. With a car, there are countless amounts of beaches on your door step and the city of Truro is just 25 minutes away.

The rooms are well presented and offer Tea making facilities, free wifi and a private bathroom. Breakfast is available and rates very highly with guests. You will get a warm welcome as well all adding to your trip. I would say this is a great place for couples or families. You are well located to explore Cornwall but also have the diverse town of Falmouth right on your doorstep.

Poole Farm, Launceston

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This 19th-century farmhouse is set on idyllic grounds right next to the River Tamar on the border of Cornwall and Devon. Not too far away from the port city of Plymouth where you will find all the action you need but secluded enough to be next to Dartmoor where you will find amazing places to walk and cycle.

The rooms themselves are decorated with period features and antique furniture so it has a very classic feel. Each room has en-suite, TV, free wifi and gorgeous views across the countryside. There is free parking and I would recommend that you need a car if you want to stay here.

The North coast is just a 40-minute drive away, not too far if you fancied a day at the beach. I would recommend this place for couples or families but bear in mind its secluded location. This really is perfect if you fancy a countryside retreat in a beautiful building with countryside views.

Trevanger Farm B&B, Wadebridge

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This traditional Cornish working beef farm provides the perfect setting for a country break for you and the whole family. With views across the countryside and farm, you will truly feel like you can switch off from your busy life. Wadebridge is a fair-sized town next to Padstow with its own beaches, pubs, restaurants and cinema. The camel trail also runs alongside Wadebridge, a fantastic trail for walking or cycling right along the coast.

Wadebridge is also near Rock and Polzeath beach, which is great for surfing. The bed and breakfast itself features period decoration, free parking and wifi. The breakfast includes eggs laid from their very own hens on the farm.

This is a great location for families or couples because it is a very quiet farmhouse. It is in close proximity to many different activities, walking, cycling, and lively nightlife in some of the local pubs in Wadebridge. Not too far from Newquay either which opens up even more choices for activities during the day or night.

Wellingtons B&B, Fowey

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This well presented, modern B&B is in the stunning coastal town of Fowey. I absolutely love Fowey and all the charm that it has to offer. There are many fantastic pubs and restaurants that sit right on the water. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind with some fresh Cornish food and a delicious glass of wine or a cold beer.

There are many activities that you can enjoy on the water in and around Fowey. Getting onto a boat trip is highly recommended, particularly in the summer months. Fowey is less than 5 miles away from the Eden Project and 20 miles away from the city of Truro.

This family-run bed and breakfast is set back from the town of Fowey. It is a short walk to local amenities. This means there is free parking which is rare in Fowey because of where it sits next to the sea. You will get a very warm welcome here and free wifi. A great breakfast is available at the property too and each room has its own private bathroom. I highly recommend Fowey as a magical Cornish destination. This bed and breakfast will give you the perfect setting there.

Driftwood Spars, St Agnes

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A vibrant pub in the quaint village of St Agnes a very sought after area by locals and tourists. The village itself has many places to eat and drink other than of course the fantastic food that they serve at the Driftwood pub. It is situated on the stunning coastline near Perranporth and Crantock beaches which are amongst some of the best in Cornwall.

Although St Agnes is a village, there is a lot going on especially in the summer months. Fete’s, carnivals, regattas and fishing contests going on. The beach is gorgeous and you can spend your days making family memories on the beach. In the evening, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that the village offers in its many local pubs.

The pub itself is well equipped for either a family, couple or group of adults to enjoy. This pub also has dog friendly accommodation featuring a garden for your furry friend to enjoy too. There is free wifi, and a continental breakfast is available. The building itself is 17th century and features actual beams from ships that have been previously wrecked, so steeped in history and character. St Agnes is a great place for a family to enjoy. I highly recommend this bed and breakfast particularly if you have a dog.

Baytree B&B, Charlestown

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With beautiful garden views, Baytree Guesthouse is in the picturesque famous port of Charlestown. Used as a filming location many times over the years due to its traditional unspoiled port and resident tall ships, this small village just off the town of St Austell near the Eden Project boasts some fantastic pubs and restaurants with some amazing views across the harbour and the bay.

Each room in the bed and breakfast has its own private bathroom and you can use the free wifi. There is also free parking. Your room also features a flat-screen TV and a continental breakfast is on offer when you stay.

I would recommend this bed and breakfast if you want a real seaside vibe. You have the option to explore the water and all its activities on your door step. The village is charming and you can eat and drink here at a very high standard but you will need a car if you want to venture elsewhere.

Cliftons Guesthouse, Truro

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This well-presented bed and breakfast is just a short walk from the city centre of Truro offering a large selection of bars and restaurants as well as the biggest selection of shops within Cornwall. Truro cathedral sits impressively right in the centre of the city and is a must-see if you are in the area. Truro is very centrally located in Cornwall. You can visit some of Cornwall’s many popular attractions by car within around 30 minutes, for example, Perranporth Beach, Falmouth or the Eden Project.

If you want to explore Cornwall but still want to benefit from a bustling city environment then this is the place for you. Each room has its own private bathroom and free wifi. Also a flat-screen TV and free toiletries. The bed and breakfast also has a shared lounge so you can relax there as well.

The breakfast menu is extensive and there are lots of options to choose from. The hosts are warm and friendly and will make you feel very welcome. I would recommend this hotel if you want to be near the city and enjoy the many amenities Truro has to offer as well as be able to easily explore further afield.

Bosavern House, St Just

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This delightful bed and breakfast is located in the charming town of St Just in the west part of Cornwall close to Penzance and Land’s end. Ideal if you want to explore those areas. The moors are close and the coast is only a few miles away opening up so many options for you to enjoy different activities while you stay here.

Walking, cycling, exploring beaches are all on your doorstep so you can really plan your days well here. If you would rather just relax and see where the day takes you that is fine too. This 17th-century inn has fantastic views of either the sea or the moorlands for you to enjoy.

Each room has free wifi and a TV and there is an extension breakfast menu featuring local produce for you to enjoy as well as free parking. Your dog can also enjoy that fantastic location and stunning walks that this bed and breakfast has to offer as Bosavern house is pet friendly.

Penwyth House, Newquay

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Situated on the outskirts of Newquay in a more quiet area called St Columb Minor is this village. It is only minutes from Newquay centre and its beaches however it is a secluded area on the edge of the town. The village itself features a co-op and pub so you are within walking distance of these amenities.

The bed and breakfast itself is designed to a very high standard and you won’t be disappointed with your room. There is free wifi, private bathroom and a continental breakfast on offer. The house itself is a period house and has a secluded outside seating area you are welcome to enjoy. The bed and breakfast has 2 rooms available so you will definitely get that personal touch and will feel more like you are renting your own space rather than sharing with a large number of people.

This is a great location for couples. One of the rooms has a free-standing bathtub in the bay window so it has a romantic feel to it. Couples would love this location and there are loads of choices of what you can do nearby from cycling, walking, surfing, or just chilling.

Haven Lodge, Newquay

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This bed and breakfast only has 3 rooms so you really will be somewhere quiet if you choose this place. Run by a lovely couple who always get great reviews you will be looked after well in this recently renovated and well-located bed and breakfast.

Newquay is a bustling hub for families, couples and groups of adults with so many different options to keep everyone entertained. By day Newquay offers fantastic beaches including the world famous Fistral Beach which hosts the Boardmasters surfing comp each year, local shops and stunning venues to enjoy some food or a cold pint. By night Newquay is a lively town where you can see live music or DJ’s and enjoy some of the best views whilst doing it.

This bed and breakfast is close to Tolcarne beach and Porth beach and offers really well-presented bedrooms with private en-suite, free parking, wifi and toiletries. If a more personal touch is what you are after then this is the place for you.

Tolcarne Beach Colonial Restaurant and Rooms, Newquay

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Want to spend your vacation on a beach, then this is the place for you. Tolcarne beach is right in the centre of Newquay. You are within yards of a huge selection of bars and restaurants and a lively day and night scene. Fistral beach is around the bay and one of many Newquay beaches that you can explore.

Newquay is a great place for families but it is also the best place for couples or groups of adults as there is lots going on in the evenings. You really can choose what type of break you want here, a relaxing bed and breakfast on a beach with a bar and restaurant so you can just chill out on the beach and then enjoy a cocktail and watch the sun go down. Or a break on a beach with loads of fun activities to do on the water for children or adults.

The rooms have private en-suites and provide toiletries, you will also get a breakfast included in your price. If you want to bring along your dog too then that’s all good because this bed and breakfast is pet friendly. I would highly recommend this bed and breakfast for location both because it’s on a beach and because its right in the middle of Newquay.

Holywell Bay B&B

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Situated in this small coastal village of Holywell Bay which features on the popular show Poldark, this guest house enjoys amazing views across the cliffs and dunes. This modern building is situated in Hollywell bay which sits on a gorgeous beach. This region of Cornwall is one of the best for beaches in my opinion. The famous Crantock beach is not far which features the Gannel estuary, perfect for kids to play in some water without going into the ocean. Also, Perranporth town and beach is just along the coast. This is a great location for shops and restaurants, some on the beach! The watering hole on the beach bar does great food and often has live music to enjoy as well as music festivals. Hollywell is also close to Newquay so a lively evening out is not too far.

Holywell is a quieter alternative to all of that. This friendly bed and breakfast is a great location if you are a couple too. You can spend your days in and around Holywell and just relax and unwind taking in the most stunning views.

The bed and breakfast itself has free wifi, parking and offers a full breakfast to its guests. It is in the perfect location for walking as you are right by the cliffs. It is also centrally located to many great bike rides. If you want a breathtaking view in a quiet setting this really is the perfect place.

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About the Author

Jenny Smith

As a young girl growing up in Cornwall, I loved to explore the county and its treasure trove of secret spots. I feel like I know this beautiful area so well and I am keen to share everything I know with you. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions and I will be happy to help!

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