About Truro

Truro is Cornwall’s county town, and only city, so a good choice if you’re looking for a Cornish holiday that blends beach life and the cultural appeals of a city break. The Regency architecture, ease of arrival, and the very good selection of restaurants, could make it quite a romantic pick too, while families will rate its spot on the River Fal, proximity to the Cornish Riviera, and the impressive array of museums and galleries. Many of the best places to stay in Truro are designed to suit both families and couples, with the larger options providing special spaces for children and families, and the smaller picks ideal for a couples' getaway.

It’s well worth visiting Truro’s beautiful Gothic cathedral which is in the historic heart of town — as well as being what makes this officially Cornwall’s city! Truro is also home to the Royal Cornwall Museum, which has exhibitions focussing on Cornwall’s seafaring and mining heritage, as well as its extensive artistic heritage.

Truro is good for outdoor adventurers too. Its position on the river makes it a good base for anyone wanting to get out on the water, and you can hire kayaks, boats and other watersports gear and visit Loe Beach and the Carrick Rocks; the wildflower meadows and woodlands just outside of the city are now covered by the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and are well preserved for walkers, cyclists and picnickers.

Don't forget that the best places to stay in Truro will be very busy in the peak summer months. If you're planning a visit in July or August you'll need to get organised and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Truro

For historic charm

The Alverton is a beautifully restored Grade II listed manor house that sits right beside one of Truro’s historic churches. It offers 50 very comfortable rooms and suites, with decor that carefully blends the period detail of the historic building with contemporary comforts — expect unique details and well-chosen antiques. The AA two-rosette awarded restaurant, specialises in the finest foraged, fished and farmed local produce.

Prefer a private apartment or cottage?

If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

Truro’s closest airport is Cornwall Airport Newquay, which is about half an hour away by car or taxi. Exeter Airport is on the opposite coastline, about an hour and a half away by road. If you’re travelling via London the trains leave from Paddington, and take about four and a half hours direct.
If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
Truro is warmest, and busiest, during the summer. Truro’s local museums and attractions do their best to appeal to local visitors as well as those travelling from further afield, so there are usually special activities on during every school holiday, not just the summer. Truro also hosts a regular antiques and collectibles market, and several food and drink festivals. Winter is the quietest time of year, and ideal for holing up with loved ones, or enjoying some peace and quiet while the weather may rage outside. Spring is colourful with flowers, and noisy with birdsong, and everything starts to re-open at an excited, but relaxed pace. Outside of the school holidays you can get much more affordable rates, but if you do visit out of season make sure you check to see what is and isn’t open. And whenever you visit it’s a good idea to pack your wet weather gear.