Chy an Gwedhen

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Chy an Gwedhen? The name actually means “house of trees” in Cornish, and honestly, it makes perfect sense when you pull up. This Victorian villa sits tucked back from the main St Ives Road with these gorgeous mature trees creating this sort of natural canopy – it feels like you’ve discovered something hidden even though you’re literally minutes from the town center.

I mean, the location is pretty much ideal if you’re trying to figure out the whole St Ives puzzle. You’re close enough to walk down into town (maybe 8-10 minutes at a leisurely pace), but you’re actually above all the summer chaos that can make the harbor area feel like a bit of a zoo during peak season. The walk back up is a bit of a climb, I’ll be honest, but there’s something satisfying about leaving the crowds behind and heading back to what feels like your own little retreat. Plus, parking here is actually manageable – and if you’ve ever tried to park near the harbor in July, you’ll know that’s worth its weight in gold.

The rooms have that perfect balance of period character without feeling like you’re staying in a museum. Thick walls mean it’s genuinely quiet at night, and the beds are the kind where you actually sleep well rather than just tolerating hotel sleep, you know? What really impressed me was the attention to small details – proper coffee setup, decent WiFi that actually works, and bathrooms that feel updated without losing the charm of the building. The breakfast room overlooks the garden, and there’s something really pleasant about starting your day looking out at green space rather than a car park or busy road.

The owners clearly know St Ives well and they’re generous with local tips – not just the obvious tourist spots but things like which beaches are best when the wind’s coming from different directions, or where to grab a proper pasty that isn’t tourist-priced. They pointed me toward Porthgwidden Beach for sunset, which I probably would have missed otherwise since everyone tends to crowd around Porthmeor. The whole place has that feeling of being run by people who actually care about hospitality rather than just processing bookings, if that makes sense.

What sealed it for me was coming back after a long day of coastal walking and actually feeling like I was returning somewhere welcoming rather than just a place to crash. The common areas invite you to linger a bit – there’s a residents’ lounge that gets lovely afternoon light, and the garden is perfect for an evening drink if the weather cooperates. It’s the sort of place where you might end up chatting with other guests about hiking routes or restaurant recommendations, which doesn’t always happen at larger hotels.

Look, St Ives has no shortage of places to stay, from basic B&Bs to fancy harbor-front hotels. But Chy an Gwedhen hits this sweet spot of being genuinely comfortable, well-located, and personal without being overly precious about it. If you want to be in the thick of things but still have a proper retreat to come back to, this is honestly one of the better choices you’ll find.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $149. Standard Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Ellis from United Kingdom – 22 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very clean spacious rooms in a great location just a short walk into St Ives with sea views all around

• Clare from United Kingdom – 7 June 2025 (10/10)

  Brilliant location and beautiful walking route into St Ives. Very comfy bed and lovely friendly helpful owners. Breakfast was really tasty.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Neville from United Kingdom – 31 May 2025 (9/10)

  Nice clean and tidy. Nice hosts.

• Leah from United Kingdom – 29 May 2025 (10/10)

  We had the sea view room and it was honestly one of the prettiest view it was very clean and Heidi and Pete are very warm and welcoming fantastic hosts, it’s a good location not too far from the coast and has a really pretty coastal walk besides the property.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was incredible.

• Wayne from United Kingdom – 26 May 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent hosts excellent location

• Lee from United Kingdom – 30 September 2024 (10/10)

  A lovely B&B with parking, close to the coast path and within easy reach of St.Ives and Carbis Bay. We had a King Room which was spotlessly clean and had an amazing sea view. We were greeted with a warm and friendly welcome and all the information we needed for our stay. We would highly recommend!

• Steven from United Kingdom – 16 September 2024 (10/10)

  room very clean had a lovely sea view breakfast very good food
  
  What could be improved: nothing everything was great

• Lisa from United Kingdom – 14 September 2024 (10/10)

  Pete and Heidi were fantastic hosts. Pete spoke about all the places to visit and all about the area, good knowledge. Our room was lovely and clean and decorated lovely, our room was duplicated to the website. Pete mentions the breakfast options and how they worked with a texting service, brilliant idea. Breakfast smelled really nice, we didn't try we were up and out. Parking the car was safe, back of the building my partner is keen where he parks.
  Would recommend 👍
  
  What could be improved: Sorry no comment

• Валентина from Ukraine – 20 August 2024 (9/10)

  Nice and clean room, good location and easy access to the town centre and beach.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast time too early and not long enough ,

• Graham from United Kingdom – 18 August 2024 (9/10)

  Pete and Heidi were lovely hosts. Very welcoming and happy to help. Nice selection of breakfasts. Room was clean.
  
  What could be improved: Would have been nice to have a bit more hanging storage.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities