Thurlestone House

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Thurlestone House? It’s that perfect sweet spot where you get the Cornwall coastal vibe without being right in the thick of St Ives madness. I mean, don’t get me wrong – I love St Ives, but honestly, trying to park there in summer is like some sort of medieval torture. Here though, you’re tucked into Carbis Bay on St Ives Road, which locals will tell you is actually the smarter play. You can walk to that gorgeous Carbis Bay beach in about two minutes (and trust me, it’s way less crowded than Porthmeor), plus you can still pop into St Ives proper when you want that bustling harbor town energy.

The house itself has this lovely Edwardian charm that doesn’t feel stuffy or overly precious – you know how some historic places make you feel like you can’t touch anything? Not here. The rooms actually feel lived-in and comfortable, with those big windows that let in all that incredible Cornish light. What really impressed me was how quiet it stays, even during peak season. I was there in July (yeah, I know, rookie mistake timing-wise) but the thick walls and the way it’s positioned meant I could barely hear the road, just the distant sound of waves when I opened the windows at night. The Wi-Fi actually works properly too, which honestly can be hit-or-miss in this part of Cornwall – something about the geography, locals always complain about it.

Here’s the thing that really won me over though – the staff genuinely know the area. Not just the obvious tourist spots, but like, they told me about this little coastal path that connects to the South West Coast Path without having to trek all the way through town first. And when I mentioned wanting decent fish and chips that wasn’t tourist-trap pricing, they pointed me toward this place up the hill that I never would’ve found on my own. That kind of local knowledge is worth its weight in gold, especially when you’re trying to experience Cornwall beyond the Instagram spots. The breakfast was proper good too – none of that continental nonsense, but actual Cornish bacon and eggs that didn’t feel like an afterthought. You can tell they’re proud of the place without being smug about it, if that makes sense. With a 9.4 rating, I was expecting it to be good, but sometimes high ratings just mean it’s expensive – this place actually earns it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $149. Small Double Room with Garden View with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $163. Double Room with Sea View with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $163. Double Room with Sea View with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $131. Single Room with Sea View with 1 single bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Alison from United Kingdom – 23 June 2025 (10/10)

  It was spotless clean. Quiet and amazing comfy king size bed.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. Everything was amazing.

• David from United Kingdom – 22 June 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely place, very convenient for getting into St ives, great view, John and Linda are wonderful hosts,very friendly and helpful, fantastic breakfasts, would definitely recommend Thurlestone House to others. Thank you John and Linda.
  
  What could be improved: Can't think of anything I didn't like!

• Imelda from United Kingdom – 18 June 2025 (9/10)

  Good breakfast, good location, bus stops just few steps away and also near carbis bay railway station. John and Linda was very accomodating. The foyer smells amazing!
  
  What could be improved: None

• Scott from United Kingdom – 15 June 2025 (10/10)

  John and Linda were great hosts , very welcoming and friendly.Great location, fantastic breakfast , clean and tidy and free parking .
  
  What could be improved: Nothing – all good .

• Malcolm from United Kingdom – 2 June 2025 (9/10)

  Location
  
  What could be improved: That you were told when to have breakfast and also had to pre order

• Will from United Kingdom – 28 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great location, lovely staff and a superb breakfast.
  
  What could be improved: The en-suite was quite cramped, but we did have the small room!

• Allan from United Kingdom – 20 May 2025 (9/10)

  Very clean, free parking space,
  
  What could be improved: None

• Jane from Germany – 15 May 2025 (10/10)

  John and Linda are absolutely wonderful hosts. Linda’s breakfasts are simply scrumptious, John’s wealth of knowledge invaluable, and together they make the perfect team.
  The room was extremely well appointed with very comfy beds, plenty of stow room in the wardrobe and a practical bathroom. The seaview was a lovely bonus.The bus stop nearby was great for getting about St Ives and the local area.
  My sister and I were welcomed and looked after like family and we were sorry our stay was so short. But we’ll be back.
  
  What could be improved: all tip top

• Tsz from United Kingdom – 25 April 2025 (9/10)

  Super friendly host, amazing breakfast, lovely room and just a great stay in general. Thank you!

• Neera from United Kingdom – 24 April 2025 (10/10)

  The property was very clean and comfortable. The hosts were extremely friendly and welcoming. They were very helpful, and the food was delicious. Everything about my stay was perfect!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities