4 Best Hotels in Penzance, The West Country

A classic Georgian building has been converted with flair and wit to create a contemporary guesthouse—the first link in what is now a small chain whose boutique properties all have a strong artistic bent. Each of the bright rooms has been individually designed by a different artist using a bold mixture of retro curios, old-style furnishings, and colorful murals, although bathrooms are reassuringly modern and well equipped. If possible, ask to see your room first (some are quite small). A self-catering cottage is available, too. The bar, restaurant, and terrace garden are also well worth exploring.

In a quiet nook of Penzance, just steps from the Promenade and harbor, this Georgian house has bright, spacious, smartly decorated guest rooms with views over Mount's Bay from front-facing rooms. The hosts are always smiling, helpful, and full of information on what to see and where to eat. Breakfast is made to order with options including waffles, pancakes, eggs royale (with smoked salmon), and vegetarian. There's normally a two to three-night minimum stay in July and August, though there may be availability for last-minute bookings of one or two nights. 

Situated in the village of Marazion and very close to St. Michael's Mount, this dapper Georgian hotel has large windows for drinking in the mesmerizing views of the turreted castle, the foreshore, and the ever-changing waters of Mount's Bay. The bright, spacious feel extends to the modern guest rooms and the bar–restaurant, where breakfast is also taken and which has outdoor seating in fine weather.

Strong on historical atmosphere, this central lodging housed the town's assembly rooms, where news of Admiral Nelson's victory at Trafalgar and of the death of Nelson himself were first announced from the minstrels' gallery in 1805. The Trafalgar Room, lounge, and dining rooms retain their Georgian elegance. A number of the traditionally styled guest rooms have window seats and views over Mount's Bay, though some of the carpets and corridors could use updating. If the reception is unstaffed, check in at the bar, where you might find live music on Tuesdays and Saturday evenings.