Chapel House

Hotel review

It's very exciting to discover such a little hidden gem in Penzance on Chapel Street, one of the loveliest streets in town. Chapel House is a stunning listed building in an elevated setting look across rooftops and down to the harbour and the Atlantic. The six rooms and suite are modern with white wooden floor boards, large bathrooms (some with freestanding baths) and splashes of colour here and there. Room 2 is one of the loveliest as it has its own wood burner and sea views. There's a sustainability angle here with bamboo loo paper and sulphate free bath and body products from a company in Penzance. Afternoon cake and a cup of tea (or something stronger) is included in the rate as is a session in the hot tub, sauna and if you're brave enough you can take a cold water plunge. Better than many luxury hotels, Chapel House is spacious and serene, and its owner, Sue, has thought of everything. In the dining room where breakfast is served, there's a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf full of every UK map you could wish for, so if you're planning to do some walking, you certainly won't get lost! Breakfast, prepared by Sue, is a feast starting with fresh fruit salad, yoghurt, granola and croissant - from the cooked options, the vegan option is particularly good with sauéed spinach and homemade rostis - sausages and bacon (with rind on!) are from the local butchers and fruit and veg are from the market - zero food miles here! Throughout the year there are supper clubs (mainly in the summer) as well as wellness retreat breaks. The spa garden is also open to non-residents so you can come here for the morning and enjoy a spot of brunch. Walking distance from the Jubilee Pool (Penzance Lido) and the independent shops and cafés of Causeway Head you couldn't be in a better location. A great option for a solo weekend, a mother-daughter break or a cosy romantic break. One of our favourite hotels in Penzance.

Lulu Townsend