THE unspoilt coastlines of Cornwall are speckled with charming hotels whose exteriors have been weathered from the salty seas.
Few of these hotels have as fascinating a story to tell as The Wellington, though. Here’s everything you need to know.
Where is The Wellington?
The Wellington – named after Britain’s grand Duke of Wellington – is buried in the rugged valley of Cornwall’s Boscastle, overlooking a quaint harbour.
As with many Cornish hot spots, it’s not the easiest of places to reach by public transport, but that only adds to its charm.
Parking on site is limited but there’s a paid car park five minutes walk away which costs £7 for 24 hours, or you can just park for free on the street behind the property.
There is a bus stop a five-minute walk away.
What is the hotel like?
This castle-like property, known as The Welly among locals, is one of the oldest coaching inns in Cornwall, although that may not be so obvious due to its recent facelift.
Rooms still carry all the charm of 16th-century property but with modern amenities.
Expect grand chandeliers and pastel, striped wallpaper in communal dining areas, while downstairs you’ll find traditional bar stools under rustic wooden beams.
Rumour has it that the hotel is haunted. The property even appeared on tv show, Most Haunted, in 2004.
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There have been murmurs of unusual sightings in room nine.
What are the rooms like at?
The 14 rooms, all on the upper floor, come with buckets of character, as you’d expect from any old and quintessentially British property.
Think tartan headboards, padded arm chairs and snuggly throws placed atop plump bedding.
It’s a listed building, so no two rooms are the same and each has an exceptionally cosy feel to it with local tea and biccies that make you feel as if you’re visiting a distant aunt (one who happens to have very chic taste).
Rooms cost from £145 per night on a B&B basis.
What is there to eat and drink there?
Elevated pub grub is what you’ll find here – fish and chips, a West Country beef burger and juicy steaks feature on the menu, as well as some veggie dishes like smoked tofu laksa (a popular item) and the simplicity burger, made with a mushroom, onion and beetroot patty.
The modern kitchen also whips up a cracking Sunday roast with all the trimmings and a very moreish gravy.
If it’s sunny, bag yourself one of the outdoor tables, with a view of the river, and sink some local ales.
Brekkie is as cosy as the rooms with help-yourself cold options and table service hot food.
Is The Wellington family friendly?
Very much so. Kids will love being so close to the river and snooping around the nearby Museum of Witchcraft and Magic
The apartments sleep two adults and at least two children, otherwise you can add an extra bed to the room for an additional charge.
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