Budock Vean Hotel

Absolutely loved our stay here! The location is perfect—right by the river and close to beautiful gardens and stunning views. We were pleasantly surprised by the restaurant; the food was incredibly delicious and way beyond our expectations, especially for the price. It felt like a fancy dining experience without the hefty bill. We had requested a non-carpeted room, and were so happy they accommodated it. The view from our window was just gorgeous. Everything about the place was peaceful, and the facilities were top-notch—jacuzzi, warm indoor pool, saunas, and even options to try golf or tennis. Overall, such a great experience for the price. We both left feeling relaxed and grateful. Thank you!

I was quite disappointed by my stay here. I visited on the 7th night of an 8-day, 100-mile walk on the South Coast Path. On previous nights, I stayed at small, moderately priced guest houses and was looking forward to a bit of luxury at Budock Vean. In contrast to all the other places I stayed in Cornwall, where I got a very warm welcome each evening, I was barely acknowledged by the front desk staff at check-in. He did not greet me, but asked curtly for my surname and credit card, took an imprint of my card, handed it back, then said he had assigned it to the wrong room and had to take it again, without apology. When he asked me what time I wanted breakfast, I said 8:15, and he said there were no slots then, so I could have 8:30. I said OK to 8:30, and he said, No, 9:00. My "signature" room was spacious, and the bathroom was clean and bright. However, the carpets, walls, and upholstery were quite worn and stained (see photo of the chair below). This was an unpleasant surprise. I made a dinner reservation for the terrace, but when I showed up at the time I had reserved, the staff again refused to acknowledge me. I stood at the entrance, by the bar, and when I asked to be seated, the staff told me rudely that I would just have to wait, which I did for more than 10 minutes. The food took a long time to arrive after I ordered. I had crab salad, which was mushy and bland, and was drowning in mayonnaise. At breakfast the next day, again, it took more than 15 minutes for anyone to take my order after I was seated. I was given a dirty teacup and a tarnished fork. Because I had experienced warm Cornish hospitality at all the other places I stayed, I was especially disappointed. The grounds are beautiful and well-maintained. However, I had the distinct impression that as a female hiker travelling alone, albeit with resources to pay for a signature room at Buduck Vean, I was unwelcome there. I would not return, or recommend it to any of my friends or family, all of whom would apparently lack the pedigree to stay here.

We have visited this hotel many times and have always considered it our go to place. No more there has been a change of ownership recently. We knew this and were expecting change. What a disappointment. We have a lovely room and the staff are wonderful but our evening meals have not been good. This three course meal (they say four but the fourth is coffee and mints!) costs £49.00. In no was is this worth even half if that amount. Most of the guests here seem to be returners but I wonder how many will return again. Budock you really need to listen to your guests, many who have been loyal for years. So very disappointed “