The Smithy

The Smithy Overview

First Impressions

You know what strikes you first about The Smithy? It’s not trying to be anything other than what it is — a beautifully converted property tucked away in the Cornish countryside that feels like you’ve stumbled onto something special. This four-star gem sits in Pendrift House, and honestly, the moment you pull up (there’s parking right on site, which is a godsend), you realize you’re somewhere that couples have been quietly discovering for years. The 9.8 rating makes sense once you’re here — it’s the kind of place that gets the details right without making a big fuss about it.

Location & Setting

The location in Blisland is actually perfect if you want to explore Cornwall without dealing with the summer crowds that descend on the coast. You’re about twenty minutes from Bodmin Moor, which means you can hike during the day and come back to somewhere genuinely peaceful. The village itself is one of those places locals will tell you about — there’s a proper pub, St. Protus and St. Hyacinth Church (worth a quick look), and that sense that you’re experiencing Cornwall as it actually is, not the postcard version.

The Accommodation

The room I stayed in had this wonderful mix of original character and modern comfort that’s harder to pull off than you’d think. The conversion work has been done thoughtfully — you’ll find exposed beams and period features, but also a really good shower and heating that actually works. What I appreciated most was the attention to lighting; there are proper reading lights and enough outlets where you need them. It’s clear someone who actually travels designed these spaces, because all those little annoyances you usually deal with just aren’t there.

Dining & Amenities

The breakfast situation is handled really well — they source locally, which in this part of Cornwall means you’re getting some genuinely excellent ingredients. The restaurant focuses on seasonal menus, and I mean that in the best way possible. You’re not going to find the same tired hotel fare here; instead, you’ll get dishes that actually reflect where you are. The staff clearly know their suppliers and aren’t shy about telling you where your food comes from, which adds to that sense of place you want when you’re traveling.

Why Guests Love It

What makes The Smithy work so well for couples — and why it consistently gets such high ratings — is that it strikes this perfect balance between being special enough for a romantic getaway but relaxed enough that you don’t feel like you’re performing. The free private parking might seem like a small thing, but when you’re exploring Cornwall’s narrow lanes all day, coming back to a guaranteed spot is actually a relief. It’s the kind of place where you end up extending your stay if you can, not because there’s so much to do on-site, but because it becomes this perfect base for discovering a part of Cornwall that still feels authentic.

Savvy travelers reserve a hotel in Cornwall before Christmas markets light up harbor towns with choirs and lanterns.

Facilities