Cornwall Accommodation: The Best Places to Stay in Cornwall

Cornwall Accommodation: The Best Places to Stay in Cornwall

Cornwall is one of the top-rated holiday destinations in the U.K., renowned for its charming fishing villages, miles of unspoiled coastline, family-friendly activities, and fresh coastal air. In this post, we’ll share 8 of our favourite places to stay in Cornwall, including adult-only and pet/family friendly properties. Here are our top recommendations for Cornwall accommodation.

The below recommendations are from stays that we experienced as part of a gifted exchange. However, all reviews are our own.

Cornwall Accommodation

1. Watergate Bay Hotel

Watergate Bay Hotel is a luxurious coastal retreat located on the stunning north coast of Cornwall, just a few miles from Newquay. This hotel is a popular destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and direct access to the expansive Watergate Bay beach.

There are numerous activities on offer at Watergate Bay Hotel, including surf lessons and yoga on the beach in addition to the in-house spa and infinity pool.

Watergate Bay Hotel has several dining options, including:

• The Beach Hut – laid back eatery, with a focus on fresh, local food.
• Zachary’s – a more formal dining experience.
• The Living Space – casual setting, perfect for light bites and refreshments.

Watergate Bay Hotel is both kid and dog friendly.

Review: 10/10

Personally, we absolutely loved our stay at Watergate Bay Hotel and couldn’t fault it. Our room was styled to perfection and our view overlooking the beach was breathtaking. The on-site facilities were fantastic and we were literally steps away from the beach.

We stayed in the Beach Lofts rooms.

2. Headland Hotel

Possibly the most iconic hotel in Cornwall, the Headland Hotel is located in Newquay, overlooking the world-famous Fistral Beach. It seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern luxury and has recently added a £10 million pool complex to its impressive amenities.

Headland Hotel offers a range of luxurious rooms and suites, many with breathtaking sea views. There are also self-catering holiday cottages to rent, perfect for families or those seeking a more private stay.

There are two spas to choose from within the hotels grounds. The in-house spa offers a range of treatments and therapies, as well as an indoor pool, sauna and hot tub.

The latest addition, the Aquaclub, is situated next to the hotel and boasts the 10th best hotel swimming pool in the world. This accolade is well-deserved, as the outdoor complex offers breathtaking ocean views. Both spas are complimentary for hotel and cottage guests. Non-residents can also book sessions during designated visiting time slots.

Headland Hotel has several dining options including:

• The Samphire: award-winning, fine-dining restaurant.
• The Terrace: more relaxed dining option, offering casual meals, afternoon tea, and cocktails, with stunning views of Fistral Beach.
• The Deck: seasonal outdoor dining area, perfect for light bites with a view.

Headland Hotel is both kid and dog friendly.

Review: 8/10

Perfectly situated overlooking Fistal Beach, Headland Hotel is a fantastic choice for a luxury stay in Cornwall. The Aquaclub is a fantastic experience too, even as a non-resident. Overall, we had a wonderful break at the Headland Hotel but were left disappointed by the breakfast, which seemed far below the luxury level of the hotel.

3. Greenbank Hotel

The Greenbank Hotel in Falmouth is a historic and luxurious waterfront hotel, offering stunning views of Falmouth Harbour and the surrounding coastline. Known for its blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort, The Greenbank Hotel is a popular destination for travellers seeking a relaxing and picturesque Cornish retreat.

Many of the hotels rooms include panoramic views of the harbour, though there are some budget-friendly alternatives too.

The hotel does not have a spa or pool but it does offer wellness treatments and due to its location many locals and guests enjoy a swim in the local harbour – we certainly did!

The Greenbank Hotel has two dining options including:

• The Water’s Edge Restaurant – award winning restaurant offering a fine dining experience.
• The Working Boat – traditional Cornish pub located within the hotel, offering hearty meals.

The hotel is pet friendly.

Review: 8.5/10

An all round wonderful stay with beautiful views of the Falmouth harbour. We loved the slower vibe of the area and the traditional Cornish feel of the hotel and pub. The food we were served in The Water’s Edge Restaurant was particularly memorable! The Greenbank Hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for south Cornwall accommodation options.

4. Bedruthan Hotel & Spa

The Bedruthan Hotel and Spa is a stylish, family-friendly retreat located on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, overlooking the stunning Mawgan Porth beach. Known for its contemporary design, exceptional spa facilities, and breathtaking ocean views, the Bedruthan Hotel offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly amenities.

The rooms are designed with a modern, Scandinavian inspired aesthetic with many boasting private balconies or terraces. There are also family rooms and interconnecting options available.

The award-winning spa is a standout highlight, featuring a hydrotherapy pool, cedar sauna, steam room and cliff top hot tubs. There are also a range of treatments on offer to hotel guests, including massages and holistic therapies.

The spa also offers yoga sessions, meditation classes and other wellness activities.

Bedruthan Hotel & Spa offers a range of dining options, including:

• The Herring: fine dining restaurant focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
• The Wild Café: a more casual dining option, providing a relaxed atmosphere with views of the sea.
• The Garden Bar: perfect for light bites, cocktails, and afternoon tea.

The hotel is kid friendly.

Review: 9/10

Bedruthan Hotel & Spa is home to the best hotel breakfast we’ve EVER had! The buffet was incredible and they also provided full vegan platters for our table too which were amazing. The in-house bakery was also a real treat. We would recommend this Cornwall accommodation option for both couples getaways and family trips.

5. The Alverton Hotel

The Alverton Hotel is a charming and historic hotel located in Truro, the heart of Cornwall. Set within a beautifully restored 19th-century Grade II listed building, The Alverton offers a unique blend of historic elegance, modern comfort, and warm Cornish hospitality.

The rooms are beautifully furnished, offering views of the surrounding gardens, which also serve as a backdrop for events or weddings. Weddings are particularly popular at this hotel, with The Grand Hall being a major drawcard.

The Alverton Hotel offers 2 dining options:

• The Alverton Restaurant – known for its fine dining experience, the restaurant forces on locally sourced, seasonal food.
• The Terrace & Bar – a more casual option for guests to enjoy light bites, afternoon tea and drinks.

Review: 8/10

The Alverton Hotel is a beautiful building and we had a lovely stay. We’d thoroughly recommend the high tea, it was delicious! The hotel is also situated within walking distance to Truro centre which was useful. However, we would recommend staying in the Courtyard accommodation or the suites in the Main House. We stayed in a classic room located in the Main House during a wedding and they weren’t quite to the same standard.

6. Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is a contemporary, adults-only retreat located on the stunning north coast of Cornwall, overlooking the famous Fistral Beach in Newquay. Known for its chic design, luxurious spa, and breathtaking ocean views, the hotel offers a perfect setting for a relaxing and romantic getaway.

The stylish rooms are fitted out with high-quality furnishings, with many offering private balconies and panoramic views of Fistral Beach.

The real gem of the hotel is the award-winning spa, offering a range of treatments including facials and massages. Additionally, guests can enjoy an indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub and fitness suite.

Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa offers two dining options:

• Dune Restaurant: fine dining restaurant offering a menu of contemporary British cuisine, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and fresh seafood.
• Bay Bar: a relaxed spot for enjoying light bites, cocktails, and afternoon tea, with a sun terrace overlooking the beach.

Review: 9/10

Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice for a couples’ getaway. We loved our stay and thoroughly enjoyed the in-house spa facilities! Whilst Cornwall is known for being a family-oriented destination, it was refreshing to experience the tranquility of an adults-only hotel. Plus, the location is fantastic, with direct access to the stunning Fistral Beach. An all round great option to consider when looking for Cornwall accommodation.

7. The Beach at Bude

The Beach at Bude is a stylish seaside hotel and apartment complex located in the charming coastal town of Bude, Cornwall. Perched atop the cliffs, it offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and easy access to Bude’s beautiful beaches. It’s a great choice for a north Cornwall accommodation option.

The hotel offers a selection of chic, contemporary rooms, with many offering sea views and private balconies. The property also includes the option for self-catering, perfect for those travelling with family. The apartment complex also has an indoor lap pool.

Both the main hotel and apartment complex are situated a stones throw away from Bude’s top main beaches, including Summerleaze Beach, which is home to Bude’s famous tidal pool.

Other activities in the area including hiking the Southwest Coastal Path and water based sports such as hiking, swimming and paddle boarding.

The Beach at Bude offers one dining option:

• Elements Restaurant – serving delicious food and drinks with views overlooking Summerleaze Beach.

Review: 8.5/10

Bude is a charming town on Cornwall’s north coast, and The Beach at Bude serves as the perfect base for exploration. We stayed in the apartment complex, which is located a short walk from the main hotel. While the distance was slightly farther than expected, it wouldn’t be enough to deter us from planning a return trip. We also dined at the hotel’s main restaurant, Elements, which we would highly recommend.

9. Glenfeadon Castle

Glenfeadon Castle is a one-of-a-kind Cornish retreat, nestled against woodland and offering stunning sea views. Originally built as a folly, this charming accommodation provides a truly unique stay. Its character-filled features, such as exposed stone walls and arched windows, pay homage to the castle’s fascinating history.

The property is spread across two floors. The upper floor features the living area and kitchen, while the lower level houses the bedroom and bathroom, connected by a spiral staircase. Outside, beautifully landscaped gardens provide uninterrupted sea views, along with a cast iron bathtub—perfect for a relaxing soak under the stars.

Glenfeadon Castle is located within walking distance to Portreath Beach, where you can find a popular tidal pool that we would highly recommend visiting.

This self-catering property also includes Wi-Fi for your convenience.

During our stay at Glenfeadon Castle, we booked through Beach Retreats, though it seems that they no longer host the property. However, you can find the property on alternative booking sites, including Airbnb. You can view the property here.

Review: 8/10

We loved the quirky charm of Glenfeadon Castle and it’s certainly one of the most unique stays we’ve ever experienced! The interior of the property feels particularly cozy and outdoor tub was an added treat. Perfect for a couples getaway – though it may feel a little small inside for some!

Thank You

Hi adventurers, thanks for reading this Cornwall accommodation guide!

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