Crows Nest – panoramic views of St Ives harbour

Hotel Description

You know those places where the name actually delivers on its promise? Well, Crows Nest is one of them. I mean, the moment you step into this place on Wharf Road, you get why they called it that – the harbor views are honestly spectacular. It’s perched right above St Ives harbor, and I’m talking proper panoramic stuff here, not some sliver of blue you glimpse between buildings.

The location is pretty much perfect if you want to be in the thick of things without the chaos. You’re literally steps from the harbor front where all the boats come and go, but somehow it doesn’t feel touristy in that overwhelming way St Ives can get during peak season. The old fishermen still use the harbor in the early mornings – actually quite charming to watch with your coffee if you’re an early riser. Parking’s going to be your biggest headache (it’s St Ives, after all), but once you’re sorted, you can pretty much walk everywhere. The Tate gallery is maybe a five-minute stroll, and you can hit Porthmeor Beach without breaking a sweat.

What really struck me about this place is how they’ve managed to keep that authentic Cornish character while still feeling polished. The rooms have this sort of nautical-meets-contemporary thing going on – sounds cheesy, but it actually works. Large windows make the most of those harbor views, and honestly, you’ll find yourself just standing there watching the tide come in and out. The staff clearly know the area inside and out, which makes a difference when you want recommendations that aren’t straight from a tourist brochure. Fair warning though – if you’re looking for those massive hotel amenities like pools or spas, this isn’t that kind of place. It’s more about the experience of being right there in the heart of historic St Ives.

The 8.3 rating feels about right – it’s genuinely good without being precious about it. Breakfast overlooks the water (get the Cornish option if they’re offering it), and the whole place has this relaxed vibe that matches what St Ives is actually like when you strip away the summer crowds. Even in busy periods, there’s something calming about watching the working boats alongside the pleasure craft. I’d definitely come back, especially in shoulder season when you get all the charm with half the people.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $241. Holiday Home with 1 double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Steve from United Kingdom – 19 November 2023 (9/10)

  Amazing views, perfect location
  
  What could be improved: Refuse/recycling confusing, info said to leave outside apartment door but this would have been a trip hazard and their are signs saying not to leave anything on the stairs or hall due to fire hazards. Tried to contact via the number in the info and couldn't get thru and it said mailbox full. Also a £200 deposit seemed a little exessive for a 5 night stay.

• Paul from United Kingdom – 22 October 2023 (8/10)

  Amazing views and location, bed was very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Bathroom needs updating.

• Alan from United Kingdom – 17 December 2022 (8/10)

  Fantastic seafront location with an incredible view. Great facilities within the room.
  
  What could be improved: Ablutions a little tired and I’d like a little welcome pack tea/ coffee/ water and a packet of biscuits.

• Patricia from United Kingdom – 2 July 2023 (8/10)

  The fabulous view from the balcony
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom was poor. Filthy shower mat in bath. Lock didn’t work on bathroom door so the door kept on opening when you were in there!.

• Alan from United Kingdom – 8 December 2023 (9/10)

  Perfect location in the heart of St Ives.
  
  What could be improved: Small TV.

• Debbie from United Kingdom – 31 May 2023 (9/10)

  The location was perfect, views fantastic
  
  What could be improved: Lots of stairs, but views made up for that tenfold

• Trevor from United Kingdom – 8 May 2023 (6/10)

  Great location.
  Well furnished.
  
  What could be improved: Access is up several flights of narrow stairs so difficult to carry luggage – no warning in booking.
  Heating not working so no hot water. (agent not contacted as would have meant lost holiday time to stay in)
  Leather chair upholstery disintigrating resulting in bits continually shed over floor
  Oven bakeware very greasy and unclean. No cleaning products. Vertical blinds either broken or difficult to move. External windows had not been cleaned and so impaired the view.
  Bed corners were hazards for leg shins.

• Binnsy81 from United Kingdom – 13 November 2023 (6/10)

  The views are absolutely amazing
  
  What could be improved: The studio needs updated, very old, and tired in some places.

• Hill from United Kingdom – 6 February 2024 (8/10)

• Raymond from United Kingdom – 2 August 2023 (8/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities