An All-Season, Wallet-Friendly Seaside Retreat on England’s Cornish Coast

Artist Residence Cornwall
Penzance, England
Cozy, $$ (from $112)

Picture this: After a blustery morning spent outside exploring Cornwall’s spectacular coastal path, you and your companions return to Artists Residence Cornwall, a quirky manor house on Penzance’s historic Chapel Street. You are tired and hungry in the best possible way, and feel rejuvenated from your time in the salty sea air. With a drink in hand, you settle onto a cushy couch in the lounge. The cozy hideaway is decorated with a hodgepodge of repurposed furnishings and modern art. A fire crackles in the hearth. The scent of a classic English Sunday roast wafts through the air. An afternoon of good conversation and delicious food awaits. This is the Sunday long-weekend dreams are made.

At a Glance

The vibe: Eccentric seaside charm.

Standout Detail: A third-floor one-bedroom suite called The Lookout is, without a doubt, the best room in the house. Exposed beams, antique furniture, and views of the sea make the quiet refuge feel worlds away from anywhere else.

This Place Is Perfect For: Travelers of all ages, but especially nice for couples or friend groups looking for a low-key getaway at an affordable price point.   

Rooms: The 22 guest rooms and the three-bedroom cottage are each individually decorated by the owners, a husband and wife team with a taste for salvaged furniture and one-of-a-kind details. Artwork is hand-picked from up-and-coming local artists. Perks include free WiFi throughout the hotel, stylish Roberts digital radios, a minibar stocked with a selection of local snacks, organic Bramley bath products, and free Cornish bottled water. Dogs are welcome in specific rooms.

On Site: Public spaces and amenities are at a minimum here and are limited to the restaurant and bar areas.

Food + Drink: Seasonal produce and local meats from nearby farms are on full display at The Cornish Barn, a rustic restaurant and bar with its own smokehouse. Next door, in the bar and lounge, a menu of craft beers and wines from nearby vineyards can be enjoyed with homemade snacks in front of the fireplace. During warmer months, there is an outdoor terrace with swings and a ping pong table.

What to Do Nearby

Cornwall is known for its picturesque seaside villages, and Penzance is no exception. Start your day at St. Michael’s Mount: The small tidal island and its medieval castle are local landmarks that can be reached by foot at low tide. Afterwards, head to Captain Fish Bar for a fresh batch of made-to-order fish and chips. Take them to go and grab a seat on the waterfront. From there, have a wander around historic Chapel Street (where Nelson’s victory at Trafalgar was announced and the Brontes’ mother once lived) or visit Morrab Gardens. The municipal park dates back to 1889 and is landscaped with Mediterranean and subtropical plants in the Victorian style. Penzance’s mild climate makes it one of the only spots in the Unitd Kingdom that can host species of this variety.

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