Spacious, seaside, Victorian home “Bay View Terrace”, Penzance

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Bay View Terrace? It’s actually right there in the name – you really do get proper bay views, not those disappointing “glimpses of water between buildings” situations you sometimes get with seaside places. This Victorian house sits perfectly on one of Penzance’s better residential streets, maybe a seven-minute walk from the harbor (I timed it), and honestly, the location alone makes it worth considering. The building itself has that solid, well-maintained feel that some of these period properties lack – you can tell someone’s put real money into keeping it up without going overboard with modern renovations that strip away the character.

The rooms are genuinely spacious, which is refreshing when you’re used to cramped coastal B&Bs where you can barely open your suitcase. I mean, Victorian houses were built when people had proper furniture, so the ceilings are high and the windows are those big sash ones that actually let in light. What I really appreciated was how quiet it stays at night – Bay View Terrace doesn’t get the foot traffic that Chapel Street does (where all the pubs are), but you’re still close enough to walk to everything that matters in Penzance. The parking situation is decent too, which anyone who’s driven around Cornwall in summer will tell you is not something to take lightly.

Here’s the thing that sets this place apart from your typical seaside accommodation – it feels like staying in someone’s well-loved family home rather than a commercial operation. The breakfast setup is proper, not just cereal and toast, and they seem to know which local suppliers are worth bothering with. You’re also perfectly positioned for day trips – St. Ives is twenty minutes by car, the Minack Theatre is a gorgeous drive down the coast, and if you’re doing the ferry to the Isles of Scilly, the terminal is literally a short walk away. I’d probably book again, especially in shoulder season when Penzance has that lovely, lived-in feel without the summer crowds clogging up the narrow streets. Just don’t expect ultra-modern amenities – this is about comfort and location, not cutting-edge tech.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $206. Two-Bedroom Cottage with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Mairin from United States – 18 June 2025 (10/10)

  Home away from home! The property is so charming AND very comfortable with everything one might need to feel at home, plus a piano! The beds were very comfy, the shower and bath were luxurious, all details and needs were provided for by the superb hosts, including delicious scones and a friendly note to welcome you! One of the nicest things was the fridge and pantry being stocked with milk, eggs, bread, etc. It’s really relaxing to not have to worry about going out having to search for food when you first arrive somewhere new. Plus the floors were so clean I noticed my white socks even stayed white walking around! Natalie and Scott truly go above and beyond to make their guests feel at home. I wish we could’ve stayed longer and I would definitely stay again. Thank you!

• Denise from Singapore – 8 June 2025 (9/10)

  The owner of property is so thoughtful to have a guidebook to help us around the house. Simple and easy to understand.
  Check in and check out procedures are easy and straight forward.
  Very comfortable place.
  Truly enjoyed the stay.
  
  What could be improved: TV did not work well. I suppose the wifi issue and resetting it does not help.
  The steps to the rooms are a little steep. Have to be careful up and down the steps.
  No toilets on the ground floor.

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

  It was perfectly positioned for us and had everything we needed. Not once did we think it was missing something that we needed. Beds were comfortable and the welcome pack – especially the boys little finger puppets were a perfect touch. Even down to towels to use swimming etc… made everything so much more enjoyable.
  
  What could be improved: I've got nothing to add here 😀

• Mai from Denmark – 28 May 2025 (10/10)

  Wonderful and charming house and really clean. And the hosts were really helpful and kind. Thanks

• Corinne from Switzerland – 25 May 2025 (10/10)

  What a beautiful quiet place in Cornwall, perfect location walking distance to the town and beach, Lidl around the corner.
  Natalie is the perfect host and taking care of this lovely juwel. We stayed 4 nights in Penzance, the perfect place to discover all the sights nearby.

• Michael from Hong Kong – 15 May 2025 (10/10)

  The property is very well decorated, maintained and equipped. The hosts put in a great effort to make us feel welcomed with a handwritten welcome card, Cornish cream tea and a bottle of white wine.
  
  The hosts also gave us helpful information and advice as to restaurants in Penzance and neighbouring areas and were very responsive to requests.
  
  The place and the hosts are absolutely wonderful. I highly recommend this property to anyone who is looking for accommodation for a short stay in Penzance.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

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

  Very well appointed – everything thought of. The welcome pack was… most welcome!
  
  What could be improved: On a narrow street as is most of Cornwall. Park close to the curb. Always spaces directly outside or v close to the property.

• Mark from United Kingdom – 27 April 2025 (10/10)

  The host kindly left us some welcome items, Bread, Butter, Milk, tea, coffee, wine and scones, jam and clotted cream as well as providing linen and beach towels. The bathroom was excellent and the shower perfect to use.

• Walter from United States – 26 April 2025 (10/10)

  This place was absolutely awesome. Natalie provided us with scones jam & clotted cream; eggs; bread & a bottle of wine. We were close to everything, the house welcoming. We’ll definitely stay again
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Sung from United Kingdom – 10 April 2025 (10/10)

  Our experience at Bay View Terrace was phenomenal. The overall house had a cozy atmosphere and good quality to it. The hosts left a very friendly letter and compliments. We highly recommend this house and would return here if we came back to Cornwall.👍👍👍

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities