Shilla Mill – Just off the Beach

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about Shilla Mill? The name makes it sound like some converted industrial building, but honestly, this place is pure Cornish coastal charm – and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s tucked just back from Polzeath beach (literally a two-minute wander down the lane), which means you get all the seaside vibes without the constant sound of waves keeping you up at night. Though let’s be real, if you’re the type who needs complete silence, the gulls will definitely have opinions about that at dawn.

The location is actually perfect if you know Polzeath at all. You’re close enough to pop down to the beach whenever the mood strikes, but far enough back that you’re not dealing with the summer crowds tramping past your window or fighting for parking spots with day-trippers from Padstow. Speaking of parking – there’s space here, which anyone who’s tried to visit Polzeath on a sunny weekend will tell you is worth its weight in gold. The staff seem to genuinely get that people come here to unwind, not to be fussed over constantly, but they’re right there when you need them. I noticed they remember your name after the first day, which is a nice touch that doesn’t feel forced.

What really sets this place apart is how it feels authentically local rather than trying too hard to be boutique-y. The interiors have that comfortable, lived-in quality – think well-chosen vintage pieces mixed with modern comfort, not the sterile perfection you get at chain hotels. You can tell someone actually thought about what travelers need: proper lighting for reading, enough outlets for your devices, and – this might sound small but it matters – decent water pressure in the showers. The rooms facing toward the coast give you glimpses of the sea through the dunes, especially from the upper floors. It’s not a full panoramic view, but honestly, I preferred it to being right on the beach front where you’d be dealing with salt spray on the windows and tourists peering in.

The whole Polzeath area gets absolutely mad during July and August (I mean, proper busy), but even then, Shilla Mill feels like a bit of a sanctuary. If you’re planning to visit during peak season, book early – places like this that actually understand the balance between comfort and location don’t stay secret for long. In shoulder seasons, though, you’ve got the best of both worlds: the dramatic Cornish coast without the circus, and a base that feels more like staying at a particularly well-run friend’s place than a hotel. That 9.9 rating isn’t just people being generous – it’s what happens when someone gets the details right without making a big show of it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $355. Four-Bedroom House with 2 × 1 double bed and 2 × 1 single bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

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

  Shilla Mill is located at the end of a beautiful lane just as the picture shows, next to it there is a campsite which is also run by Alison and James and offers great facilities which clients renting the meal are also to use if required.
  It’s peaceful, tranquil and well located far enough away to be private but close enough to walk to all the amenities you require, whether that be the beach the shops or restaurants .
  Alison and James are on hand if required and work tirelessly to ensure your stay is a great one.
  Highly recommend staying here if you have family and a pet, fantastic for walks and to discover what this location has to offer.
  
  As mentioned earlier there is a campsite next door to the mill which I would imagine could hold between four and five pitches, so if you do have a large group, this is an ideal location to suit all.
  
  What could be improved: The only minor aspect that would’ve been nice, however, understand highly unlikely to change would be to have either a downstairs toilet or an additional bathroom, with this being a Mill steeped in history I would assume to try and add an additional washroom of sorts would be a very big challenge.
  Having said that it does not take away having enjoyable day has been and would certainly look to return in the near future .

• Steve from United Kingdom – 17 April 2025 (10/10)

  I really don't want to write a review for this beautiful property as I would like to keep it for myself!
  A picture perfect cottage situated at the end of a track that is not a thoroughfare for cars so extremely quiet and peaceful, yet only a 10 minute walk puts you on beautiful Polzeath beach, the best of both worlds! James and Alison will run you through the amazing history of this cottage on your arrival, makes the visit even more exciting.
  Again, please don't book this place as I want it available for my next visit! 😉

• Susan from United Kingdom – 24 February 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely cottage . Near the beach, shops ,pubs restaurants, Nice places to take our dog walking . Really enjoyed our break away . Ali was a lovely host . Really helpful .

• Amanda from United Kingdom – 28 January 2025 (10/10)

  Charm , space and warmth, was a lovely feel, only one bathroom in the house but there was more facilities in a separate unit next door which was more than adequate
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• James from United Kingdom – 30 October 2024 (10/10)

  Location was fantastic. Great property.

• Matt from United Kingdom – 18 October 2024 (9/10)

  Unique property with fascinating history. Situated at end of no through road – nice and quiet. Flat walk to the beach. Everything we needed was there.

• Paul from United Kingdom – 11 September 2024 (10/10)

  Lots of character, very comfortable, nice and quiet as set back from the beach.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, although if you are tall you do have to watch your head due to some low doorways.

• Wendy from United Kingdom – 27 June 2024 (9/10)

  We loved the location and character of this property. It was spacious and clean and comfortable The hosts James and Abi were friendly and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing we did nt like.

• Chris from United Kingdom – 7 June 2024 (10/10)

  The property is steeped in history, beautiful quiet location, very comfortably furnished , spacious with its own private garden. Private easily accessible parking and amazing owners who went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. Fresh flowers , tea , coffee all provided. Bedding and towels were beautifully clean and fresh.
  Short walk to beach and golf course and lovely walks.
  
  What could be improved: Only that it would have been easier for elderly relatives, during the day , if there was a downstairs toilet.
  However campsite next door has fantastic facilities which can be used by Shilla Mill occupants.

• Jenny from United Kingdom – 31 May 2024 (10/10)

  A beautiful, characterful cottage not far from Polzeath beach. The property had everything we needed as a family of four. It was warm and inviting, with lots of space! The beds were so comfortable, I haven’t slept that well in a long time! My girls loved watching all the different birds coming to the garden too. Our hosts were very welcoming and it was lovely to see little touches like fresh flowers, popcorn, sweets and Prosecco! Thank you for a lovely stay. We look forward to coming back.
  
  What could be improved: We liked it all!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities