17 Best B&Bs in Cornwall

Cornwall’s beautiful coastline — ripe for walking or just admiring — and the region’s unique, friendly culture are the perfect setting for a B&B break. Sure, there are some amazing hotels in Cornwall, but more often than not a B&B is a bit more intimate, a bit more friendly and a bit more peaceful. And our Guru’s recommendations for the best B&Bs in Cornwall are all of these and more. Their list includes an arty escape in St Ives, a boutique bolthole in Bude, an adults-only guesthouse in Mevagissey and a peaceful palatial house in Padstow. Plus more charmers than available weekends!

For the Album

Westcroft Guesthouse is a gem hidden right on the beach of Kingsland, on Cornwall’s South Coast. It has just four rooms, all individually, and romantically decorated — it’s worth seeing them all if you get the chance, there’s a choice of four-posters, beamed ceilings, opulent wall papers, and free-standing baths. Breakfast is all locally sourced, and the friendly hosts will being you tea or coffee in your room.

For a Beach Break

The Sandy Duck in Falmouth is an immaculately styled B&B with spectacular sea views from most of the seven rooms. Converted from a large, double-fronted townhouse, there’s a good variety in the size, shape and decor of the rooms, with our favourites featuring free-standing baths. The vibe is fresh and calm, you might even say Scandinavian. And you’re well positioned for Falmouth and its four beaches.
Treverbyn House is an elegant property with three B&B rooms, just a short stroll from Padstow Harbour. The property has been under the same ownership for 20 years and a lot of care is taken over the decor — wood floors, fireplaces and antiques — and over the service. And there’s an excellent Full English.
Nearwater is a chic, four bedroom B&B in pretty St Mawes, just a short stroll from the beach. In addition to three well laid out rooms, all done with a nautical flavour, there’s a cosy lounge with a fireplace, and a separate, self-catering annex. An intimate option, with friendly, helpful hosts.

For a Romantic Escape

Trevose Harbour House is a stunning, nautical inspired B&B in arty St. Ives, with wonderful views of the Cornish coastline from the windows of almost all of its six, individually designed rooms and suites. There’s a snug and honesty bar downstairs, and the all-organic breakfasts are legendary. Lovers of mid-century design will approve, along with lovers of Klein blue.
Headland House is a grown-up and elegant B&B in St. Ives, offering seven nautically minded rooms, with sea views. Expect free-standing baths, spacious bathrooms, fabulous breakfasts in a charming breakfast room or courtyard, a welcoming sitting room, and a well stocked honesty bar. Intimate.

For a Rural Retreat

Pendragon Country House makes for an idyllic country escape, set amidst the stunning North Cornish landscape overlooking Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor, and still just six miles from the ocean. Inside are seven rooms and suites and a grand atmosphere — think antiques, opulent colours and oil paintings. The most romantic rooms have four-poster beds, and the lounge has squashy leather sofas and a roaring fire when required. There are walking paths right out of the hotel, and the friendly hosts serve a three course table d’hote supper to replenish you.
Ednovean Farm has been charmingly transformed from a farm into a cosy B&B — still benefitting from fabulous views over St. Michael’s Mount Bay, and the location just outside Penzance. It has just three rooms, all with a country chic feel, private terraces and romantic details. There are also mature gardens, where they will serve your hearty breakfast if the weather allows. It’s just a short stroll from an excellent selection of bars and restaurants. Adults only.

For a Mini Break

Venton Vean is a surprisingly chic B&B just a short walk from the centre of Penzance. Our Gurus say surprisingly, because the exterior of this home is classic charming seaside fare, but the interiors are much fresher design-wise. There are six rooms, all smartly decorated in various shades of green and grey, with period features, and contemporary comforts and touches. There’s also a stylish sitting room. Breakfast can be English, Mexican or Spanish!
Chelsea House is a stylish, owner-managed B&B which looks out over Falmouth Bay. The nine rooms are themed, and named, for musicians, and styled with plenty of mid-century Danish furniture, including some very nice G Plan, plus contemporary art, crisp, white walls and original wooden floors. There’s a large and comfy lounge, a charming terrace, and private outdoor space with the two pet-friendly rooms.

For Families

Caroe Farmhouse is a beautifully presented farmhouse conversion in a scenic spot, featuring four immaculate rooms, and plenty of white paint inside and out. In addition to the comfortable rooms there’s a spacious lounge, a comfortable dining room where a superb breakfast is served, and a green expanse of garden all around the farmhouse. There’s lots to do in the area, including horse riding, surfing, cycling, golf, sailing, and plenty of walking trails.
Just a short walk from Porthmeor Beach in St. Ives, Storm in a Teacup is s chic B&B with six rooms, including several family options. The contemporary decor leans towards the industrial, with wood-clad feature walls, exposed bulbs and pop art — and bunks in the kids’ part of the family rooms.

For Walkers

Hay Barton is a rural B&B retreat in South Cornwall, close to Trewarthenick and Portloe. The old house has lots of charm, and the welcoming hosts have set up four beautiful rooms, with just the right amount of homely country chic. Breakfast is homemade, served in an airy dining room, or al fresco if the weather allows, and there are walking routes right from the doorstep.
Lower Barns is a charming stone bungalow converted into a six room B&B, in beautiful, mature gardens in the rolling Cornish countryside just outside St. Austell. Each room is individually designed and decorated, with plenty of colour and nic-nacs collected from the owners’ travels. Two of the rooms have a private hot tub. Table d’hote style suppers are offered some evenings, and by request.

For Great Value

The Old Rectory in Boscastle, on the North Cornwall coast, is about as historically romantic as you can get — this is where Thomas Hardy met his wife. Obviously it wasn’t a B&B then, but these days the four tranquil, romantic rooms in pale hues, the manicured gardens and beautifully cooked meals, hark back to the days when it was a country house.
3 Porthminster is a charming, four room B&B in St. Ives, just a short stroll from the beach. Each of the room are light and airy, with plenty of white paint and big windows. They offer the sort of breakfast that will really set you up for the day, and guests are well positioned for restaurants and cafes, and all the other charms of St. Ives. Very friendly and affordable.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Cornwall
Refine your search to our Guru’s collection of Cornwall's most romantic hotels or Cornwall's Best beach hotels
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Pendragon Country House Camelford, Cornwall 7 rooms from AU$178
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Whether on land or sea, there are a wide range of outdoor activities to choose from
  Families  -  The three self-catering cottages are a good option for families or small groups
  Birdwatching  -  This area of Cornwall offers some of the most exciting birding in the UK during migration, particularly in the autumn
  Great walks  -  The perfect base for walking sections of the Coastal Path or moorland area
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide
  
  A family-run guesthouse set in beautifully manicured grounds overlooking Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor. Rooms are traditional and grand with antiques and artworks. The best have four posters. With very friendly hosts and an exquisite three-course table d'hote dinner, this is a luxurious rural hideaway. See More
  
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- Trevose Harbour House St Ives (Cornwall) 6 rooms from AU$460
  
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  Eco break  -  Food is locally sourced and predominantly organic, waste is recycled and cleaning products are enviroment friendly
  Beach Life  -  Decorated in a nautical style, enjoying views of and walking distance from some of Cornwall's finest beaches
  Sights nearby  -  For art lovers the Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden are worth a visit
  Sailing  -  Take a boat trip to Seal Island where you can spot seals, dolphins and much more
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape
  
  As refreshing as the Cornish coastline you can see from your window this nautical inspired B&B is simply stunning. Six individually designed bedrooms ooze style with colour palettes to match the sky and surf of St Ives. The downstairs snug offers an honesty bar & breakfast is totally organic. See More
  
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- The Old Rectory, Cornwall Boscastle, Cornwall 4 rooms from AU$197
  
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  Eco break  -  Dedicated to sustainablity- where possible produce comes from the gardens and farm and power comes from their solar panels
  Country Escape  -  A stunning Cornish country house with chickens roaming the garden and fantastic walks from the property
  Great walks  -  Grab a packed lunch from the hotel and set out to explore the rugged coastal landscape just five minutes away
  Surfing  -  The nearest surf beach is Crackington Haven, a ten minute drive away
  Recommended by  -  Fodors, Good Hotel Guide
  
  Where Thomas Hardy met his wife, now a welcoming B&B. Secluded, tranquil and romantic- the traditional rooms feature large sash windows and delicately patterned curtains. Lovely walks and a charming walled veggie garden. Beautifully cooked cornish food. Ideal for a typically British country stay. See More
  
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- Ednovean Farm Cornwall 3 rooms from AU$178
  
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  Beach Life  -  With views across St Michael’s Mount Bay stay here to explore the rugged Cornish coast
  Sights nearby  -  Trewidden, Trengwaiton, and Godolphin House are just a short drive away
  Great walks  -  Enjoy long walks along the picturesque South West Coast Path
  Sailing  -  Boat trips depart daily
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  A charming farmhouse turned into a cosy B&B with views over St Michael’s Mount Bay. Rooms are individually styled but all have a classic country feel and private terraces. Hearty breakfasts are served and there are wonderful walks in the area. A grown-up stay, ideal for a quiet rural getaway. See More
  
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- Nearwater St Mawes (Cornwall) 4 rooms from AU$207
  
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  Self catering to rent  -  A charming annex complete with a kitchen, patio, and living room is ideal for those looking for an independent stay
  Groups  -  With three rooms in the main building plus an annex, this is a good option to rent out in its entirety
  Restrictions on children  -  Children over 10 and babies upto 6 months are welcomed. Small children are allowed if the whole place is taken
  Sailing  -  There is a local sailing school Roseland Paddle and Sail where lessons can be booked
  
  A luxurious bed and breakfast set in St Mawes just a stone's throw from the beach. Three well-designed rooms have a nautical feel & a cosy lounge area with a fireplace. There is also a separate annexe for self-catering. An intimate choice with friendly and helpful hosts. A quiet Cornish hideaway. See More
  
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- Treverbyn House Padstow, Cornwall 3 rooms from AU$225
  
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  Beach Life  -  Close to Padstow Harbour, the rugged Cornish coast, and several beautiful stretched of sandy beach
  Surfing  -  Cornwall has the best surf beaches in the country. Harlyn Surf School caters for beginners and improvers
  Local markets  -  Padstow Harbour, a traditional fishing town, is worth a wander
  Sailing  -  Daily boat trips run from Padstow to Rock
  
  Under the same ownership for over 20 years, Treverbyn House is a well oiled machine. With just three rooms, each individually decorated with exposed wood floors, antique furnishings, fireplaces and impressive views. A famous Full English is served. The property is a short walk from Padstow Harbour. See More
  
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- Hay Barton Cornwall 4 rooms from AU$131
  
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  Country Escape  -  Set amidst beautiful rolling Cornish countryside, Hay Barton is a tranquil spot for a rural getaway
  Groups  -  With just four rooms, this is an ideal option to rent out in its entirety with family or friends
  Self catering  -  The Potager is a separate cottage that comes with a kitchenette
  Great walks  -  The surrounding landscape is full of beautiful walking routes with Place to St Anthony being particularly scenic
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  Charming hosts and a delightful setting makes Hay Barton a wonderful place to stay. Full of character and charm, the individually decorated rooms feature elegant furnishings and tasteful artworks. With homemade breakfasts and beautiful surrounding walking country, this is an idyllic rural getaway. See More
  
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- Venton Vean Penzance 6 rooms from AU$169
  
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  Local exploring  -  Whether you want to explore Penzance's art galleries, spend days hiking, or discover historical sites, there's plenty to do here
  Boutique  -  Impeccably styled and with great attention to detail, this owner-managed B&B is boutique perfection
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Godolphin House, a place steeped in mystery and legend
  Great walks  -  Climb up to St Michael's Mount and enjoy the views
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  A short walk from the centre of Penzance, Venton Vean is a charming boutique B&B. Smart rooms mix period features with modern touches such as Egyptian cotton sheets. With delicious locally sourced breakfasts, this is a great base for exploring Penzance and the surrounding coastline. See More
  
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- 3 Porthminster St Ives (Cornwall) 4 rooms from AU$169
  
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  Local exploring  -  Perfectly placed within walking distance of the harbour, The Tate, and some of St Ives' most famed restaurants
  Romantic Break  -  A quiet atmosphere, lovely sea views and long walks on the beach — ideal for a romantic getaway
  Great walks  -  Wander along the coast revelling in its natural beauty. The South West Coastal path runs through St Ives
  Minimum Stay  -  Three nights in the high season and two nights throughout the rest of the year
  
  A charming B&B situated in the town of St Ives, just a short distance from the beach. Four light and airy rooms are decorated in sunny whites, blues and yellows and have wonderful sea views. Breakfasts are an indulgent affair and St Ives' beaches, restaurants, and sights are all nearby. A cosy stay. See More
  
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- The Sandy Duck Falmouth (Cornwall) 7 rooms from AU$225
  
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  Value chic  -  With Scandinavian style, wonderful sea views, and a prime location — this is a chic and well priced option
  Local exploring  -  With as easy access to buzzy Falmouth as to the beautiful countryside of Cornwall
  Sailing  -  Explore the coastline on a sailing trip and search for dolphins, seals or basking sharks
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the imposing Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  A chic boutique B&B boasting spectacular sea views. Immaculately styled throughout with white washed walls, crisp white linen and carefully placed artefacts. The best room features a large free standing bath. Well positioned to access the beaches as well as Falmouth's many attractions. See More
  
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- Lower Barns St Austell (St Ewe) 6 rooms from AU$244
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With only six individually designed rooms, two featuring a private hot tub, Lower Barns is perfect for a romantic getaway
  Local exploring  -  In the heart of rugged Cornish countryside, it's a great launchpad for exploring the area around St. Austell
  Private Hot Tub  -  Two of the rooms have their own private hot tub and secluded garden. One even has a woodburner
  Sights nearby  -  Six miles from the amazing Eden project which boasts an enormous indoor rainforest
  
  Delightful boutique B&B nestled amidst rolling Cornish countryside outside St. Austell. Six individually designed rooms featuring bright colours inspired by the owners' travels, two with private hot tubs. Gorgeous mature gardens and table d'hote style dinners. Perfect for a romantic hideaway. See More
  
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- Caroe Farmhouse Camelford, Cornwall 4 rooms from AU$244
  
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  Active Holiday  -  For those who like to keep active there is surfing, horse riding, hiking, sailing, cycling, and golf opportunities nearby
  Country Escape  -  A very comfortable farmhouse in a glorious part of Cornwall offering numerous country pursuits
  Great walks  -  Explore the extensive and beautiful coastal paths starting from the property
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  
  A pristine farmhouse in a scenic Cornish spot offering four immaculate rooms. Expect bright rooms decorated with soft hues and simple white furniture. Gorgeous homemade breakfasts are served using superb local produce and there's an endless array of activities to enjoy in the region. See More
  
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- Westcroft Guesthouse Torpoint, Cornwall 4 rooms from AU$244
  
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  Active Holiday  -  The area is well suited to fishing, surfing and rambling enthusiasts
  Groups  -  Take over all 4 rooms and have it all to yourselves
  Sights nearby  -  Some of Cornwall's quaintest towns are within easy reach including Polperro, Fowey, St. Ives, Cape Cornwall, Padstow and Rock
  Four poster beds  -  One of the rooms has a pretty four poster and comes with a large sitting room
  
  A stone's throw from the sea, Westcroft Guesthouse is a little hidden gem on Cornwall's South Coast. Expect four-poster beds, coffee or tea delivered to your room, and a delicious locally sourced breakfast. Ideal for a romantic getaway or take over the whole house for a self-catering week. See More
  
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- Headland House St Ives (Cornwall) 7 rooms from AU$329
  
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  Local exploring  -  St Ives is a trendy little town filled with art galleries and cafes. Then there's all the beautiful Cornish countryside
  Boutique  -  All the rooms are individually (and tastefully) designed, many with roll top tubs and stunning sea views
  Great walks  -  Head out from the property and take scenic walks along Carbis Bay
  Restrictions on children  -  Children over 14 years old are welcome
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A boutique B&B offering fabulous sea views, cosy accommodation and a friendly welcome. Rooms are individually styled with the right balance of traditional and contemporary design. Fabulous breakfasts are served and there's a well-stocked honesty bar for evening tipples. A grown-up stay. See More
  
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- Storm in a Teacup St Ives (Ayr) 6 rooms from AU$301
  
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  Families  -  Family rooms with a large double and bunk beds plus the multitude of activties nearby make this perfect family-friendly material
  Local exploring  -  Well positioned in St Ives, you have access to beaches, Tate St Ives, the coastal path, and excellent restaurants
  Great walks  -  The South West Coastal path runs through St Ives so you have great options in all directions
  Sights nearby  -  St Michael's Mount and Land's End are must visits!
  
  Just a short walk from the beach, Storm in a Teacup is a charming boutique B&B in St. Ives. The rooms are stylishly decorated with modern furniture and pop art that gives the place a chic feel. A laidback launchpad to explore the surrounding Cornish coast. See More
  
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- Chelsea House Falmouth 9 rooms from AU$363
  
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  Retro/Vintage  -  Expect retro design with a splash of rock n roll! The owners are big music fans and it is seen throughout the property
  Local exploring  -  Well positioned to explore Falmouth's best beaches, boutique stores, art galleries, and restaurants
  Great walks  -  Take long walks along the picturesque South West Coast Path that runs through Falmouth
  Sights nearby  -  The well preserved Pendennis Castle is located just a five minute walk from the hotel
  
  A stylish owner-managed B&B with views of Falmouth Bay. Bright modern rooms are all named (and themed) after famous musicians. Original features remain with bay windows and wooden floors but the art is contemporary and the colour palette unfussy. A chic base to explore this corner of Cornwall from. See More
  
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