The Old Sweet Shop

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to The Old Sweet Shop in Par – honestly, the name made me think it might be trying too hard to be quaint. But this place actually delivers on the charm without feeling like a theme park version of Cornwall. It’s tucked away in what feels like a proper Cornish village, and you get the sense that locals still pop by rather than it being completely overrun by tourists.

The building itself has that solid, weathered stone look that tells you it’s been here forever, and inside there’s this lovely mix of old character (think exposed beams and uneven floors that creak in the right way) with genuinely comfortable modern touches. I mean, the beds are actually good – not just pretty to look at. The rooms feel thoughtfully put together rather than decorated by committee, if that makes sense. What really got me was the attention to small details that you don’t always find at 4-star places: proper thick towels, decent water pressure, and – this might sound silly – but the curtains actually block out light properly. You’d be surprised how rare that is.

The location works brilliantly if you’re planning to explore this part of Cornwall. You’re close enough to the Eden Project that you could walk there if you’re feeling energetic (though honestly, most people drive), and the Lost Gardens of Heligan are just down the road. Par itself isn’t going to win any beauty contests – it’s more of a working village than a picture-postcard spot – but that’s actually refreshing. You can grab proper groceries at the local shop, there’s decent parking (crucial around here, trust me), and you’re not fighting crowds just to get a coffee in the morning. The coastal path is easily accessible too, and if you head towards Charlestown you’ll hit some genuinely spectacular stretches without the Padstow-level crowds. The staff seem to actually know the area rather than just reading from a script, which makes a difference when you’re trying to figure out whether it’s worth driving to that beach someone mentioned or if the tide times will mess up your plans. For what you pay, especially considering how expensive Cornwall has gotten lately, The Old Sweet Shop feels like solid value – comfortable without being flashy, characterful without being precious about it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $146. Holiday Home with 1 double bed and 1 single bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Steven from United Kingdom – 16 June 2025 (8/10)

  Great location for us to explore Cornwall
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Pruett from United Kingdom – 3 June 2023 (9/10)

  The cottage was very cute, clean with a gorgeous garden. The hosts were extremely helpful. Would definitely recommend it, and we can't wait to stay again
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Caroline from United Kingdom – 3 April 2023 (8/10)

  great stay! and perfect for my painting retreat
  
  What could be improved: no parking and was nervous about leaving my car in the co-op car park near the gypsy park

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities