Cosy retreat in beautiful Cornwall

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about this place? The fact that it’s tucked away on Mill Lane in what used to be an actual working mill – I mean, you can still see some of the original stonework when you’re walking up. Most people think of Helston and immediately picture the Flora Day celebrations (which, honestly, are pretty magical if you’re here in May), but this little penthouse flat gives you a completely different perspective on the town.

The thing about staying in The Penthouse at Old Mill Flats is that you’re sort of getting the best of both worlds. You’re literally a five-minute walk from the town center – and I actually timed it because I’m weird like that – but you feel completely removed from any tourist chaos. The conversion work they’ve done here is really thoughtful; there’s this lovely contrast between the old mill character and modern comfort that doesn’t feel forced. The ceilings are higher than you’d expect, and there’s actual storage space, which anyone who’s stayed in British holiday rentals will appreciate. I particularly loved the kitchen setup – it’s one of those places where you can actually cook a proper meal if you want to, not just heat up sad sandwiches.

What really sells this place, though, is the location for exploring proper Cornwall. You’re about twenty minutes from some of the Lizard Peninsula’s best coastal walks – Kynance Cove is absolutely worth the drive, especially at low tide when you can explore the caves. The owners clearly know the area well because there’s a folder of local recommendations that goes way beyond the usual tourist spots. They mentioned this little farm shop near Gweek that does incredible Cornish pasties (better than the ones in town, honestly), and a pub in Mawgan that locals actually drink at. Parking isn’t a nightmare like it can be in some Cornish towns – there’s a designated spot, which during summer season is basically gold dust. The only minor thing is that the walls are a bit thin, so if the downstairs neighbors are having a late night, you’ll probably hear it. But most of the time it’s properly quiet, especially midweek. Check-in was straightforward too – none of that awkward key-hiding business, just a proper handover with someone who actually cares about whether you have a good stay.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $237. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 single bed and 1 double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Debbie from United Kingdom – 11 May 2025 (7/10)

  Location
  Scenery
  
  What could be improved: No proper second bed for elderly relative
  
  Tv didn’t work in front room
  
  No map for car parking as stated

• Ashley from United Kingdom – 30 April 2025 (9/10)

  Breakfast not applicable. Location good, quiet, close to town, with cafes, pubs take always etc – really good walks nearby

• Nicci from United Kingdom – 16 July 2024 (8/10)

  Good location, apartment very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Parking was difficult and involved lots of moving cars around with other people in other apartments

• Joachim from Austria – 18 June 2024 (8/10)

  Big tv. Perfect for the evening european Championship game. Everything as it was written in the prescribtion.
  
  What could be improved: The kettle was a little bit nasty everything else was very clean.

• Jay from United Kingdom – 14 December 2023 (9/10)

  Exactly what we needed for a lightning stop, very comfortable bed and clean apartment

• Belinda from United Kingdom – 25 July 2023 (9/10)

  It was nicely decorated and clean. Location was in a lovely quiet location but within easy walking distance for town. Was an excellent location for exploring the south of Cornwall. Met the owners who were lovely people and so friendly. Received personal messages before our stay and thanking us afterwards which was really nice.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing really not to like. I personally would have preferred a larger bed but knew what size the bed was before I booked so isn’t a criticism of the property

• Michelangelo from United Kingdom – 17 July 2023 (8/10)

  What could be improved: I wish I knew that putting the address into Waze or Maps brings you to the wrong place!
  A bathroom with an extractor fan would be also nice because there is no window.

• Philip from United Kingdom – 30 August 2022 (7/10)

  clean and a good bed – slept well
  
  What could be improved: no cooking facility- a microwave don’t cut it !
  what are the sofa cushions stuffed with ? gravel ?
  the most uncomfortable sofa I’ve ever experienced

• Ayelet from Israel – 11 July 2024 (9/10)

  A welll equipped apartment with a kitchen ,free parking and large living room
  
  What could be improved: The place is hard to find. The bathroom is small and The bed is small

• Vicky from United Kingdom – 10 June 2024 (9/10)

  Brilliant property. Well equipped.
  Great directions provided to find the place.
  Owner was great over the phone, with a few hours notice for me to book it.
  
  What could be improved: All you needed for 1 night and more!
  Great location and access for town.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities