‘Forget overcrowded St Ives – there’s a real treat of a stay in Penzance.’ Quirky character fills the ‘beautifully restored’ brick-and-granite former 18th-century admiral’s house, but ‘this inviting boutique hotel is all about the hostess, Susan Stuart’. ‘Every requirement is looked after with professional charm.’ Guests appreciated the ‘exceptional’ attention to detail, from the welcoming tea and cake, to an introduction to the local GP who runs nearby Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, to the ‘open house’ approach. ‘Even when we went out to dinner, we were welcomed into the kitchen for a complimentary glass of wine.’ Throughout, there’s a happy blend of contemporary and antique furniture, fresh flowers, and coastal hues. In the ‘spacious’ bedrooms, a huge handmade bed, an in-room bath, an iPad, panoramic harbour views. Above the open-plan landing is a retractable glass roof. Locally sourced, unfussy communal meals (‘marvellous, impossibly good value’) are a highlight, perhaps pan-fried brill with Cornish early potatoes and samphire. ‘On our final morning, we enjoyed tea and cake with fresh raspberries and a glass of chilled Prosecco to wish us well on our journey.’ (DS, and others)