Little Breoke

Little Breoke Overview

First Impressions

You know what strikes you first about Little Breoke? It’s not trying to be anything other than what it is — a beautifully restored Georgian manor house tucked away in the Cornish countryside near Lostwithiel. When I pulled up the gravel drive, I honestly felt like I was arriving at someone’s elegant country home rather than a five-star hotel. The honey-colored stone facade and perfectly manicured gardens have this understated luxury that feels refreshingly authentic in a world full of flashy resorts.

The Setting

Lostwithiel itself is one of those Cornish gems that most people drive right past on their way to the coast — which is actually perfect for Little Breoke’s guests. You’re positioned right in the heart of Cornwall’s ancient capital, with the River Fowey meandering just beyond the hotel grounds. I mean, you can walk to the medieval bridge in about three minutes, and there’s something magical about having a proper Cornish market town as your backdrop rather than tourist crowds. The parking situation is brilliant too — completely free and private on-site, which honestly saves you a fortune and a headache in this part of Cornwall.

The Accommodation

My room was in the main house, and the attention to detail was remarkable without being fussy. Think original period features — high ceilings, sash windows overlooking the gardens — but with all the modern touches you actually want. The bathroom was particularly impressive, with this gorgeous roll-top bath that I definitely made use of after a day exploring Bodmin Moor. What I appreciated most was how they’ve managed to preserve the character of the building while ensuring everything works perfectly (you’d be surprised how many historic hotels get this balance wrong).

Dining Experience

The restaurant focuses on local Cornish produce, and honestly, it’s some of the best food I’ve had in the county. They work with suppliers from around the Fowey Valley, so you’re getting ingredients that have traveled maybe ten miles rather than hundreds. The chef clearly knows what they’re doing — I had this incredible dish with Porthilly mussels that still makes my mouth water thinking about it. Breakfast was equally impressive, with proper Cornish bacon and eggs from their own chickens roaming the grounds.

Why Guests Love It

There’s something about Little Breoke that just works, especially for couples looking for that perfect romantic escape. The staff seem to genuinely care about your experience rather than just going through the motions, and the whole place has this relaxed elegance that makes you want to slow down and actually enjoy your holiday. You’re close enough to explore Cornwall’s attractions — the Eden Project is about twenty minutes away, and you can reach both the north and south coasts easily — but far enough from the madness to feel like you’ve discovered something special. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself extending your stay if you can manage it.

Facilities