After the St Ives hotel I'd been visiting since I was a kid shut down, I was sure I would never…read morefind a place to stay that could measure up to the childhood nostalgia. I happened upon The Rookery while planning a visit to St Ives with my partner for the winter holidays, and I was impressed before we even arrived. The Rookery, run by Ron and Barbara Rook (a clever name is a good sign), was exactly what I'd been looking for. Ron and Barbara were responsive by email and phone, and incredibly helpful before and during our visit. This cozy B&B is in a prime location, just a short walk from the main streets of St Ives, but elevated enough to have a great view of the harbor. We had a very comfortable, very quiet rear-facing suite, so I can't comment on noise levels in the forward (street) facing rooms. Breakfast was fantastic every morning, with the obligatory full English fare and pretty much everything in between. They even had a vegetarian breakfast available, a rarity in most of the English B&Bs I've visited. Ron and Barbara greeted us each morning, cheery and full of great tips about local events and sights. Ron, a photography enthusiast, even took us on a photo tour of the nearby countryside when he found out that we also loved photography. (I'm sure this is not a standard service for guests, but we had a blast. It was one of the best parts of our trip, and demonstrates how dedicated they both are to making their guests happy.) I ended up having an experience very different from those childhood years, but discovered St Ives anew, with Ron and Barbara's help.

After a 7 hour train ride from London, my friend and I checked in at a hostel where a children's…read morecircus performed literally outside our window. I promptly went afoot and unexpectedly found this B&B facing the sea, what a most welcome oasis for weary travelers! Liz, the land lady was most accommodating and helpful. The 2 single en suite rooms were charming in country decor, immaculately clean, cheery and bright, coffee and tea were stashed along with soft bath towels to boot! Breakfast was not only a standard English Breakfast, my friend was able to order a vegetarian version, and a generous cereal bar accompanied. Free wifi and complete silence rounded out the entire experience along with the surprisingly inexpensive room rate. Cheers to Liz!

Long-time visitors to the Lizard but have never found the 'right' place to stay - until now!…read moreRecommended by a family member we entered the world of luxury B&Bs with some trepidation. We need not have worried - room brilliant, view more so, and hosts Carla and John very welcoming. Bay House is big enough for guests and hosts to have sufficient space - while still maintaining a 'family' feel. Breakfast as big an event as you want it to be, and a great occasion for guests and hosts to share experiences and information. Food wonderful, and dinner/cream teas are available if required. Star feature - heated summer house with what must be one of the best views in the UK.

Lovely guesthouse! The hosts were wonderful, and offered up helpful information for getting around…read more& great suggestions for dining. Our room, while small, was comfortable & very clean with a stunning sea view. All in all, a charming experience within easy walking distance to the city centre, buses, & trains.

From the owner: Cosy Bed & Breakfast with the best sea viewsread more