Stratton Gardens

Stratton Gardens Overview

First Impressions

You know what struck me most about Stratton Gardens? It’s one of those places where you immediately feel like you’ve discovered something special that most tourists completely miss. Tucked away on Cot Hill in the village of Stratton, this four-star gem sits just outside Bude — close enough to reach the coast in minutes, but far enough to escape the summer crowds that can overwhelm the seaside towns. The moment I pulled up, I appreciated having my own parking spot right on site (honestly, free parking anywhere near the Cornwall coast is practically gold these days).

The Setting

What I love about Stratton is that it’s a proper Cornish village — you know, the kind where locals still chat over garden fences and the pub actually serves decent food. The hotel sits in this lovely residential area where you can take evening walks through quiet lanes lined with traditional stone cottages. I mean, Bude’s beaches are literally a five-minute drive away, but you’re staying somewhere that feels authentically local rather than touristy. The location rating of 9.6 makes perfect sense when you realize you’re getting the best of both worlds.

Accommodation Details

My room had that comfortable, well-maintained feel that immediately puts you at ease — nothing flashy, but everything you actually need for a proper stay. The furnishings struck that sweet spot between homey and professional, and I particularly appreciated the attention to detail in the little things (good lighting for reading, proper blackout curtains, that sort of thing). The whole place has this calm, residential atmosphere that’s perfect for couples — which explains why so many pairs rate it so highly for romantic getaways.

The Local Experience

Here’s something you might not expect — staying in Stratton actually gives you better access to some of Cornwall’s hidden gems than staying right in Bude would. The coastal path is easily reachable, but you’re also perfectly positioned for exploring inland attractions like the Museum of Witchcraft in Boscastle or the dramatic cliffs at Tintagel. After spending days exploring, coming back to this quiet village setting feels like returning to a peaceful home base rather than just another hotel.

Why Guests Love It

Honestly, I think Stratton Gardens works so well because it doesn’t try to be something it’s not. It’s a well-run, comfortable place that happens to be perfectly positioned for exploring this gorgeous part of North Cornwall. The consistently high ratings (9.6 overall) tell the real story — guests keep discovering that sometimes the best travel experiences come from staying somewhere that feels more like a local secret than a typical tourist accommodation. If you’re looking for a genuine base for exploring Cornwall’s coast and countryside, this place delivers exactly what you need without any unnecessary fuss.

Facilities