The Old Sweet Shop

The Old Sweet Shop Overview

First Impressions

You know what caught me off guard about The Old Sweet Shop? It’s exactly what the name suggests — this place actually was a traditional sweet shop before being converted into accommodation. Walking up to the building in Par, you can still see hints of its confectionery past in the charming storefront details. The whole setup feels wonderfully quirky and authentic, which honestly makes such a refreshing change from cookie-cutter hotel chains. There’s something genuinely special about staying somewhere with this much character and local history baked right into its bones.

Location & Village Life

Par might not be the first Cornish village that comes to mind, but that’s actually part of its appeal — you’re getting the real Cornwall experience without fighting crowds of tourists. The Old Sweet Shop sits right in the heart of this working village, and I mean that in the best possible way. You’ve got the Eden Project just a short drive away, plus you’re perfectly positioned for exploring both the north and south Cornish coasts. What really impressed me was how couples seem to gravitate toward this spot — there’s something about the intimate scale and peaceful setting that just works for romantic getaways.

The Accommodation

The rooms here maintain that sweet shop charm while being surprisingly well-appointed for what’s essentially a boutique guesthouse. Everything feels thoughtfully done rather than fancy for the sake of it — you’ll find comfortable beds, good lighting for reading, and those little touches that show someone actually cares about your stay. The conversion has been handled with real sensitivity to the building’s original character. I particularly appreciated how they’ve managed to create modern comfort without losing that cozy, intimate atmosphere that makes this place so distinctive.

What Makes It Special

Here’s the thing about The Old Sweet Shop — it’s not trying to be something it’s not. This is proper Cornish hospitality in a genuinely unique setting, and that authenticity really comes through in every detail. The hosts clearly know their stuff when it comes to the local area, so you’ll get insider tips about hidden beaches and the best local pubs. The whole experience feels personal rather than commercial, which is getting harder to find these days. Plus, there’s something rather magical about falling asleep in a place that once brought joy to local children buying penny sweets.

Why Guests Love It

That 9.2 location rating isn’t just about geography — it’s about finding somewhere that feels like a proper discovery. Guests consistently mention how peaceful and restorative their stays are here, away from the bustle of the main tourist trails but still within easy reach of Cornwall’s highlights. The combination of genuine character, thoughtful hospitality, and that sweet shop backstory creates something you simply can’t replicate in a standard hotel. It’s the sort of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a well-kept local secret, which in many ways, you have.

To book hotel in Cornwall for summer surf swells, travelers reserve stays near Fistral Beach to blend sunrise paddles with seafood shacks.

The Old Sweet Shop Accommodations

Reviews of The Old Sweet Shop

• 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