The 18 Best Boutique Hotels in Cornwall

Artists Residence

Cornwall's sandy beaches, subtropical microclimate, rugged countryside, and thriving restaurant scene has long made it a popular destination for a British getaway. Filled with pretty fishing villages and historic homes, the best hotels in Cornwall are generally packed full of character. While the standard of hotels is very high across the county, our hotel experts always favoured a boutique option for its individual feel, unique design, and personalised service. With this in mind, our Hotel Gurus have scanned the area to bring you a collection of the best boutique hotels in Cornwall. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a trip with friends, there is something to suit most tastes and budgets. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next coastal break?

For beach access

Tolcarne Beach Colonial Rooms

  • Tolcarne Beach Colonial Rooms is a chic collection of beach cabins and suites set directly on a private stretch of beach. Interiors are quirky and luxurious, filled with antiques and offering indulgent bathrooms and terraces for beach views while the restaurant serves up particularly good seafood. Beach perfection.

For the views

Lewinnick Lodge

  • Newquay’s Lewinnick Lodge is simple and stylish; a ten-room hotel set on the cliffs of a rugged stretch of Cornish coastline. The rooms and bathrooms have plenty of light, space and charm - but the views are always the main event. The terrace, restaurant and bar all share these beautiful vistas.
  • Just off the beach, Primrose Valley Hotel epitomises Cornwall's superb hospitality culture. With views that flow out across the beautiful surroundings and stylishly designed rooms, it's a hotel that makes the best of its surroundings.
  • Driftwood Hotel is set in scenic private grounds which overlook stunning Gerrans Bay. Light, marine-inspired rooms are the perfect example of comfort meets luxury. Fabulous food at the restaurant makes dining a spoiling yet casual affair, matched by a fine wine list. A dream Cornish location.

For couples

The Scarlet

  • Old Quay House Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Fowey with estuary views and contemporary charm. Rooms boast wonderful views and simple minimalist style. The locally popular terraced restaurant serves an inventive menu of local seafood. An ideal spot for a romantic mini-break.
  • While many of Cornwall's best boutique hotels are romantic, not many are as perfect for romance as The Scarlet. With views of Mawgan Porth beach, restrictions on children, a natural outdoor infinity pool cut into the rocks, and an Ayurvedic spa - you'll want for nothing here.

For foodies

The Idle Rocks

  • Merchants Manor is just a short stroll up from the beach in Falmouth. It's a smartly decorated 39 room hotel with a nautical feel. Boasting an award-winning restaurant known for its foraged and locally sourced ingredients. Guests also benefit from the impressive spa and tennis courts.
  • The Beach at Bude is a stylish boutique bolthole overlooking a popular surf beach. light and airy rooms are contemporary and fresh with pastel hues, pale wooden furniture, and sea views. The laidback restaurant serves modern British cuisine and there's a vibey bar too. A hip coastal getaway.
  • The Idle Rocks is an un-fussy boutique option right by the harbour wall in St. Mawes. Popular with a younger crowd, this 20 room hotel has simple nautically-inspired decor and a wonderful seafood restaurant.

For families

St Enodoc

  • St Enodoc in Rock is like a chic version of those old seaside hotels, all white with fabulous views and, in this case, with stylish comfortable rooms and suites too. A large terrace and pool offer families plenty of outdoor space while the popular restaurant has an excellent children’s menu.
  • Set on two acres of sub-tropical gardens, the Talland Bay Hotel makes a great family-friendly boutique pick. The decor is relaxed New England style which means no fiddly, breakable antiques, just comfort and style. There are two restaurant choices, an award-winning fine dining restaurant and a relaxed brasserie to keep everyone happy. With the beach just two minutes away this is an easy choice for families.
  • The Alverton is an elegant pile of a manor in a surprisingly secluded spot in pretty Truro — partly a surprise because of the scale of the hotel: it has 50 rooms and suites, plus a noteworthy restaurant and beautiful gardens. The decor is a refined mix of old and new, with antiques and original features augmented by a Farrow & Ball colour scheme and design pieces. The family suites are a good size and there are plenty of activities on offer.

For a rural hideaway

Trewornan Manor

  • Trewornan Manor is a charming 13th-century manor house just outside Wadebridge, converted into a smart four-room hotel. This is a wonderful spot for walking — the manor grounds themselves are 25 acres — and you can expect a cosy fire or other treats on your return. Perfect for an adults-only weekend escape.

For the design

Artists Residence

  • Artist Residence in Penzance has the sort of decor many of us would love to emulate at home: authentic-feeling rustic cosiness, with design pieces and an eclectic art collection — each room was added to by a local artist. Complete with an atmospheric lounge and bar. A good choice for design enthusiasts.

For great value

The Gannet Inn

  • Boskerris Hotel defines itself with its beautiful interiors in stylish pales, reminiscent of the Med. The hotel pretty much has the sandy bay below to itself, but it's also a short walk along the South West Coast Path into St. Ives where you can visit the Tate. A stylish choice, offered at great rates.
  • The Gannet Inn has been converted from a picturesque villa just outside St. Ives. It has 20 individually styled rooms and suites, named for their characters, from ‘Cosy’ to ‘Quirky’. This is a friendly spot with a hearty restaurant and outdoor pool. Well located for exploring Cornwall.

For a B&B

Trevose Harbour House

  • Trevose Harbour House is a nautical-feeling boutique B&B, with six beautifully designed rooms decorated in a colour palette that matches the sea and sky of St. Ives. The rooms are all upstairs, with wonderful ocean views, and downstairs there’s a snug with an honesty bar and breakfast cafe. A cosy choice.
  • Headland House is a chic seven-room B&B in St. Ives with wonderful sea views and a very friendly welcome. Each room is different, but all are contemporary in design. Breakfast is excellent and there’s a well-stocked honesty bar and elegant lounge. A grown-up stay.

Still not sure where to book?

  • You could browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Cornwall
  • Or try our recommendations for the best B&Bs in Cornwall, our Guru’s collection of Cornwall's most romantic hotels, Cornwall's Best beach hotels or the best hotels for foodies in Cornwall
  • Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
    • Driftwood Hotel St Mawes (Cornwall) 14 rooms from CA$371

      Romantic Break  -  Perfect for a romantic retreat — think sunset strolls on the beach, candlelight dinners, and a private cabin with a terrace
      Foodies  -  Chef Olly Pierrepoint creates stunning dishes in this highly regarded 3AA Rosette restaurant
      Great walks  -  Grab a hotel picnic and head out through the private estate right down to the coast and explore the beautiful beaches
      Fishing  -  Right on the coast, there are plenty of fishing boats to rent for the day with equippment and guides if necessary
      TennisRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Sawdays

      Set in scenic private grounds, this chic and intimate hotel overlooks stunning Gerrans Bay. Light, marine inspired rooms are the perfect example of comfort meets luxury. Fabulous food at the restaurant makes dining a spoiling yet casual affair, matched by a fine wine list. A dream Cornish location. See More

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    • Old Quay House Hotel Fowey (Cornwall) 11 rooms from CA$337

      Beach Life  -  Nearby seaside activities range from sailing to surfing, fishing to feasting and everything in between
      Romantic Break  -  A classic English romantic getaway with gourmet dining and romantic suites with sea views
      Great walks  -  Wonderful walking all around this area, a particualr favourite is the picturesque Hall Walk, which ends in pretty Polruan
      Sights nearby  -  The ruins of St Catherine’s Castle sit on the edge of the town and command spectacular views of the harbour
      RestaurantViewsParkingNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Sawdays, Tablet, I Escape

      A luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Fowey with estuary views and contemporary charm. Rooms boast wonderful views and simple minimalist style. The locally popular terraced restaurant serves an inventive menu of local seafood. An ideal spot for a romantic mini-break. See More

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    • The Old Coastguard, Mousehole NOT TO SHOW 14 rooms from CA$261

      Views  -  To St Michael's Mount and the Lizard
      Garden  -  Tropical garden down to the sea
      Restaurant  -  Has won the Cornish Tourism award for the Restaurant of the Year for the last two years running.
      Quirky  -  No TVs - and an eclectic mix of furniture
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyViews

      Fun, laid back hotel with good food and spectacular views out to sea. Rough edges, simple rooms, very hospitable. See More

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    • The Scarlet, Cornwall Newquay 37 rooms from CA$329

      Romantic Break  -  With a spoiling spa, luxurious rooms with sea views, and fine dining - this is the perfect setting for romance
      Spa  -  An eco spa featuring a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, a wooden sauna, and pod treatment rooms
      Restaurant  -  Seasonal dishes are served in the restaurant alongside a good selection of wines
      Surfing  -  There are several surfing beaches nearby and plenty of surf schools too
      SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViews
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

      Relaxing, purpose-designed eco-friendly hotel overlooking Mawgan Porth beach. Rooms are decorated with contemporary furniture & local art. Enjoy sea views from the cocktail lounge and the stylish hotel restaurant. Expect fantastic spa facilities for relaxation and great outdoor activities nearby. See More

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    • The Idle Rocks St Mawes, Cornwall 20 rooms from CA$610

      Foodies  -  The award-winning restaurant serves British menus with an Asian influence using the best of local and seasonal produce
      Families  -  A spacious family suite, a private cinema, and a wide choice of activities make this perfect family holiday material
      Surfing  -  Cornwall is renowned for its surf beaches and there are several schoold nearby that offer lessons
      Kayaking  -  Explore the picturesque creeks and hidden beaches of the Roseland peninsula on a kayak
      RestaurantParking

      A boutique seaside hotel well positioned right on the harbour wall in St Mawes. Rooms are designed with a fresh take on traditional design. Expect sea views, plush beds, and modern fabrics. The popular restaurant serves a well-executed British menu with an Asian twist. A chic coastal stay. See More

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    • Boskerris Hotel St Ives (Carbis Bay) 15 rooms from CA$379

      Local exploring  -  From St Ives' art galleries and the Tate St Ives to rugged countryside for treks and surfing - there's plenty to explore
      Restaurant  -  Breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinners are served with regularly changing menus use the best of local produce
      Sights nearby  -  Tate St Ives is within walking distance and is a real must visit
      Great walks  -  Hop on the nearby South West Coast Path
      RestaurantGardenViewsNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

      A sophisticated seaside hotel with fabulous views of Carbis Bay. Decor is light, airy, and contemporary with a Mediterranean feel. A large terrace is perfect for a sundowner while breakfasts, high teas, and dinners are a choice of small regularly changing menus. A stylish base for a coastal stay. See More

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    • Headland House St Ives (Cornwall) 7 rooms from CA$295

      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
      GardenViewsParkingNo pets
      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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    • The Gannet Inn St Ives (Cornwall) 20 rooms from CA$371

      Families  -  With spacious family suites, a laidback vibe, and close proximity to the beach this is a good choice for a family getaway
      Local exploring  -  An ideal base to explore the chic town of St Ives, access the beach and discover Cornwall's countryside.
      Great walks  -  Discover Cornwall on foot taking long walks along the coastal path.
      Restaurant  -  Hearty modern British cuisine is served in the restaurant
      RestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

      A boutique inn located in a picturesque village just outside St Ives. Individually styled rooms are named to reflect their character. From 'Cosy' to 'Quirky' each is stylishly designed and comfortable. The staff are exceptionally friendly and the food both hearty and skilfully crafted. See More

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    • The Beach at Bude Bude 18 rooms from CA$177

      Contemporary  -  Farrow & ball hues, an atmospheric bar that feels like a members club, and coastal chic style make this a great boutique choice
      Active Holiday  -  Whether sea activities, cycling, or hiking is your thing - there is plenty to keep busy with here
      Surfing  -  Situated right above Summerleaze Beach, this is a prime spot for surfers
      Restaurant  -  The Beach Restaurant is headed up by highly acclaimed chef Jamie Colman who trained with Gordon Ramsay and Michael Caines
      RestaurantViewsNo pets
      Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

      A stylish boutique bolthole overlooking a popular surf beach. light and airy rooms are contemporary and fresh with pastel hues, pale wooden furniture, and sea views. The laidback restaurant serves modern British cuisine and there's a vibey bar too. A hip coastal getaway. See More

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    • Trewornan Manor Wadebridge 7 rooms from CA$270

      Short break  -  Newquay Cornwall Airport is just 9 miles away making this a good option for a quick weekend break
      Romantic Break  -  Trewornan Manor is an adult-only spot with an intimate atmosphere — ideal for romantic getaways
      Boutique  -  Beautifully appointed bedrooms offer a fresh contemporary feel to this period manor house
      Sights nearby  -  Cornwall's spectacular Eden Project is an absolute must-visit!
      GardenParkingNo pets

      A stylish B&B set in 25-acres of pretty gardens near Wadebridge. Carefully renovated, the 13th-century manor house still has its original features but the style is now fresh and contemporary. With a firelit lounge, honesty bar, and adult-only policy - this is a tranquil rural getaway. See More

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    • Merchants Manor Falmouth 39 rooms from CA$320

      Foodies  -  Locally inspired dishes are served in the 3 AA Rosette winning restaurant which is worthy of a visit alone
      Romantic Break  -  With fine dining and an extensive spa, this is a spoiling choice for a romantic getaway
      Sights nearby  -  Visit local attractions including Pendennis Castle, St Mawes Castle, and Trebah Gardens
      Great walks  -  Enjoy long blustery walks along Cornwall's renowned South West Coast Path
      SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

      Perched on a hill above two small beaches, this former home of a shipping merchant feels boutique, but includes a large swimming pool and everything from single rooms to spacious apartments, some with hot tubs. The restaurant is the real lure, serving dishes inspired by the region. Ideal for couples See More

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    • The Alverton Truro (Cornwall) 50 rooms from CA$211

      Local exploring  -  With Truro's historic attractions, shops and museums on the doorstep plus gorgeous rugged countryside to explore
      Foodies  -  The two AA-rosette award-winning restaurant uses the finest foraged, fished and farmed Cornish ingredients
      Full of character  -  The property is full of historic character, yet has a fresh contemporary feel
      Great walks  -  Take walks along the scenic coast of the Roseland Peninsula
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

      A converted historic grade II listed building set in pretty Truro. Beautifully restored throughout, the rooms perfectly mix the old and the new. Expect Farrow and Ball painted walls, chic contemporary furniture and plenty of charm coming from the original features. The restaurant is noteworthy too. See More

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    • Talland Bay Hotel Cornwall 27 rooms from CA$455

      Active Holiday  -  There are a wide range of activities nearby including surfing, cycling, hiking, golf, and fishing
      Back to Nature  -  Views of the sea and the coastal path just 2 minute walk away keeps you in touch with nature
      Great walks  -  Miles of coastal paths can be explored right from the Talland Bay Hotel doorstep
      Sights nearby  -  The Eden Project is just a 40 minute drive from the hotel
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
      Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

      A country house hotel set in two acres of sub-tropical gardens close to the beach. Rooms have a New England beach house vibe with contemporary fabrics, sleigh beds, and plenty of light. With award-winning Cornish fine dining and spectacular coastal views, this is a luxurious rural hideaway. See More

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    • Lewinnick Lodge Newquay (Cornwall) 10 rooms from CA$304

      Foodies  -  The restaurant is inspired by the surrounding land and sea and served contemporary Cornish cuisine
      Romantic Break  -  Rooms boast spectacular sea views and enormous clawfoot tubs - a very romantic setting
      Sights nearby  -  The Blue Reef Aquarium and Newquay Zoo are a short drive
      Sailing  -  Newquay sailing club for all your nautical needs
      RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

      A boutique restaurant with rooms boasting fabulous sea views from its clifftop setting. Simple yet stylish, modern rooms decorated in light hues with luxe bathrooms. With the beach on your doorstep and a brasserie serving very good modern Cornish fare, this is a charming coastal hideaway. See More

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    • Artist Residence Cornwall 19 rooms from CA$251

      Active Holiday  -  Don your wetsuit and hit the waves, followed by a blustery coastal walk, bike ride and back for a hearty nights sleep
      Foodies  -  Nearby cookery schools offer foraging courses, and the town is peppered with lovely organic meat and produce shops
      Families  -  While several of the rooms can take cots, families should book The Cottage which sleeps up to 6
      Sights nearby  -  Fairytale island castle of St Michael’s Mount
      RestaurantGardenPet friendly
      Recommended by  -  I Escape, Sawdays

      A chic boutique hotel bursting with character in pretty Penzance. Unique rooms have eclectic art, vintage furniture, and the best have freestanding tubs. Laidback Clubhouse is a lounge and bar serving all-day food and drinks. While there are buzzy cafes and pubs nearby. A stylish stay. See More

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    • Primrose Valley Hotel St Ives 9 rooms from CA$253

      Boutique  -  A compact 11 room Edwardianm home turned into a chic boutique with minimilist style and a hint of nature in each room
      Local exploring  -  Ideal for exploring popular St. Ives and the surrounding Cornish countryside and beaches
      Surfing  -  The Cornish coast is a haven for surfers. From novice to pro, you'll find a wave for you
      Sights nearby  -  Land's End is just over ten miles away
      ViewsParkingNo pets

      Just off the beach, Primrose Valley Hotel epitomises Cornwall's superb hospitality culture. With views that flow out across the beautiful surroundings and stylishly designed rooms, it's a hotel that makes the best of its surroundings. A coastal gem. See More

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    • Tolcarne Beach Colonial Rooms Newquay (Narrowcliff Road) 9 rooms from CA$447

      Beach Life  -  Located directly on a beautiful stretch of private beach this is a unique option in Cornwall due to its proximity to the sands
      Active Holiday  -  Whether you want to surf, paddleboard or spend the day hiking - there is plenty to do in the area
      Surfing  -  The surf in Newquay is world renowned and a number of surf schools operate from the beaches
      Restaurant  -  Modern contemporary cuisine using the freshest local produce
      RestaurantPet friendlyParking

      A chic collection of beach cabins and suites set directly on a private stretch of beach. Interiors are quirky and luxurious, filled with antiques and offering indulgent bathrooms and terraces for beach views. The restaurant serves up particularly good seafood. An ideal pick for a romantic break. See More

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    • Trevose Harbour House St Ives (Cornwall) 6 rooms from CA$413

      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
      ViewsParkingNo pets
      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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    • St Enodoc Hotel Rock (Cornwall) 20 rooms from CA$287

      Families  -  Family suites, games room, special kiddies menus and a wealth of fun beachside activities make this an ideal family getaway
      Tennis  -  The Point in Polzeath offers free gym access to guests, as well as tennis courts and lessons at a small additional charge
      Surfing  -  The hotel will organise a private surf lessons with George Stoy, a perfect introduction to Cornwall's most popular sport!
      Great walks  -  Set along some of the most spendid coastline in Cornwall, there are endless paths and trails to navigate
      Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

      A boutique coastal hotel with views of the Camel Estuary. Smart rooms are beautifully styled with bright colours, oil paintings, and simple modern furniture. The popular restaurant serves healthy contemporary dishes. Vibrant and cosy, with top marks for the stunning location and warmth of service. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 23rd February 2022