The Best Hotels in Falmouth, Cornwall

Facing Gyllyngvase beach, this chic, contemporary hotel is a far cry from the tacky seaside B&Bs that often spring to mind. Kitted out in soothing, nautical colours, with sleek king-size beds and walk-in rainfall showers, the rooms at St Michael’s offer a truly comfortable stay for the discerning traveller. Book into a sea-facing room, and be sure to indulge in the spa, which features a 17m indoor pool and a bespoke treatment menu. For evening dining, the Flying Fish restaurant not only has some of the best fresh seafood for miles, it also serves up pretty good views.

With palm trees, marble floors and stunning sea views, this could be the Amalfi coast, not Cornwall. Founded more than 100 years ago, it’s one of Falmouth’s first hotels and still maintains its status as one of the best today. Golf lovers have full access to the hotel’s course, while those more inclined to recline will love the sprawling spa facilities. Head up to the sun terrace when the weather is fine and down into the champagne bar when it takes a turn for the worse.

If you book a stay at the Greenbank, you’ll be treated to an uninterrupted view of the sailing boats, lapping shores and rugged coastline that make up Falmouth Harbour. For those who’d rather be on the waves than looking at them, there are several sailing options to satisfy your inner adventurer, from traditional Cornish sailing boats to Falmouth water taxis. With plush king-size beds, velvet armchairs and dark-green tiled bathrooms, the rooms are anything but stuffy. Featuring one of the best and most reasonably priced afternoon teas in town and a cracking brunch menu, you certainly won’t go hungry at the Greenbank.

If you’ve come to Cornwall to soak in the county’s rich maritime history, Chain Locker is a good place to start. This restored 17th-century sailor’s tavern has peppered the walls of both the pub and the bedrooms with memorabilia, photos and artwork collected over the past 300 years. Now one of the most popular pubs in Falmouth, its recent restoration has added new life to the rooms, which combine a rustic seaside charm with modern flair. A new seafood restaurant has also been added, and it’s perfectly located to enjoy the shops, galleries and museums that Falmouth has to offer.

Family-owned and renowned for its friendly atmosphere, Trelawne Hotel is the perfect setting for a coastal escape. Maenporth Beach and the South West Coast Path are nearby, offering endless walking routes along the unspoilt Cornish coastline. After a day splashing around at the seaside or hiking in the countryside, treat yourself to a slap-up meal made with seasonal ingredients at the on-site restaurant, or kick back with a bottle of Cornish ale in the bar and lounge. Book yourself into a sea-facing bedroom to wake up to panoramic views over Falmouth Bay and Rosemullion Head.

There’s a cool rock’n’roll edge to this B&B in the heart of Falmouth. Its rooms are named after music icons such as David Bowie, Amy Winehouse and Prince, and each features quirky touches that its subject would have no doubt appreciated. If you prefer to keep things mellow, check into the understated Dusty Springfield room for a private balcony with sea views, with a pashmina provided to wrap up in when the sun goes down. Breakfast is served daily until mid-morning, and when you’re ready to explore, Falmouth’s beaches, boutiques and beautiful gardens are right around the corner.