Mandalay

Hotel Description

You know what? I’ve driven past Mandalay in Bude countless times over the years, and honestly, I always wondered what it was like inside. Well, I finally stayed there last month and – wow. This place is something special, and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s tucked away on Trewint Street (which, let’s be honest, most tourists never find unless they’re specifically looking for it), and that’s actually part of its charm. You’re close enough to hear the waves from Summerleaze Beach when the wind’s right, but far enough back that you won’t get woken up by late-night surfers stumbling home.

The moment you walk in, there’s this immediate sense that someone actually cares about this place. The owner – lovely woman, been running it for years – remembers your name from check-in, which sounds small but makes all the difference when you’re dealing with typical seaside B&B fatigue. The rooms are what I’d call “thoughtfully done” rather than just decorated. Mine overlooked the back garden (ask for a sea view if you can, though honestly, the garden rooms are quieter), and everything felt intentional – proper blackout curtains that actually work, a reading light positioned where you’d actually use it, decent water pressure in the shower. Little things, but they add up. I mean, how many places have you stayed where the WiFi password isn’t just “password123”? Here it actually works throughout the building, which is more than I can say for some of the flashier hotels down by the harbour.

What really sets Mandalay apart is how it fits into Bude itself. You’re a five-minute walk from the town center (take the path behind the Co-op, it’s quicker than the main road), and honestly, you’ll probably end up chatting with the locals at The Falcon or grabbing pasties from Malcolm Barnecutt before you know it. The breakfast – and this is important – uses local suppliers, not just the usual wholesale stuff. I’m talking proper Cornish bacon, eggs from farms you could probably walk to if you had the time. They’ll pack you something to take if you’re heading out early for the coastal path, which starts practically at the end of the street. September’s probably the sweet spot for visiting – still warm enough for the beach, but the August crowds have cleared out and you can actually enjoy Bude without fighting for parking. Just don’t expect to roll up without booking; this place has a 9.8 rating for good reason, and word’s getting out. Trust me on this one.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $95. Superior King Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

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

  The host provided everything you could possibly want for a comfortable stay. There was a fridge, microwave, toaster and kettle and a small amount of milk and scones as a welcome! All toiletries provided too. Access via a tiny road!
  
  What could be improved: Couldn’t find fault with anything!! Just what we expected for a quiet relaxing break

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

  What a lovely un suite room with a balcony overlooking the countryside and sea view in the distance. So many thoughtful things were supplied . Very clean and quiet. Caroline was very friendly and helpful. It's a no-brainer when we return to Cornwall. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
  
  What could be improved: All good.

• Melanie from United Kingdom – 15 June 2025 (10/10)

  Caroline and Trevor were very good hosts and very informative. Our room was as described and beyond our expectations, very clean and a lot of thought had been put into the decoration and facilities. We will definitely return in the future. " Thank you" for a wonderful stay.

• Lisa from United Kingdom – 15 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

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

  The location and the peace and quiet and the bed was comfortable everything was great

• David from United Kingdom – 4 June 2025 (9/10)

  The hosts were very welcoming and friendly,they were always at hand if you needed anything,very comfortable and clean with a lovely little seating area outside,very close to all the places we wanted to visit.farm close by,nice to see the animals over the fence.

• Chiverton from United Kingdom – 1 June 2025 (10/10)

  Every thing was really nice
  
  What could be improved: Nil

• John from United Kingdom – 1 June 2025 (10/10)

  We find Mandalay a beautiful property, and Caroline was a warm host. Have been in the travel business for many years, and can honestly say , this property has got it right! Tasteful decor, everything you could possibly need had been thought of. Will definitely spread the word, and hopefully revisit in the not too distant future.

• Zarqarani from United Kingdom – 30 May 2025 (10/10)

  Its so comfortable nice and clean, very friendly staff,

• Paul from United Kingdom – 27 May 2025 (10/10)

  No breakfast. Nice quiet location, accessed by a narrow farm track, but don't let that put you off. Caroline, the host, was lovely and told us to ask if we needed anything. Highly recommended.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities