Tripplo's verdict, based on guest reviews
Tripplo’s analysis · Updated 2 October 2026 · How we review hotels
Housel Bay Hotel has looked out over its bay on the Lizard since 1894, and its position at the southern tip of mainland Britain is what guests praise above all. The coast path runs through the garden, steps lead down to a tidal beach, and The Terrace and the bar look straight out to sea. Guests are just as warm about the staff, often named in reviews, and about the cooking, from a breakfast with something for everyone to the tasting menu at Fallowfields. The trade-offs come with the age of the building and the exposed spot. Some bathrooms and corners feel dated, rooms can be compact with little hanging space, and a lighthouse nearby means a foghorn on misty nights. Parking is limited, and breakfast is not included in every rate. Walkers and couples after a remote clifftop base with good food will be very happy here; light sleepers and anyone wanting a large, modern room should think twice.
Guests score it 9.0 out of 10 — the average across the 9 hotels we list in Cornwall is 9.0.
What Guests Loved
- Guests rate the location above everything else. The hotel stands on the cliffs above Housel Bay, and reviewers describe the views from the sea-facing rooms, the restaurant and the snug as spectacular, especially on clear days.
- The staff are praised in almost every review, from the welcome at reception to housekeeping and the bar. Guests describe them as friendly, polite and always smiling, and several mention individual members of the team by name.
Things to Consider
- A lighthouse stands close to the hotel. Light sleepers mention the foghorn on misty nights and a beacon that can be heard after dark, although guests say the curtains keep the light out.
- Several guests found the bathrooms in need of updating and some public areas a little tired, and one long-standing visitor felt the garden was less well kept than in earlier years.
Should you book it?
Housel Bay Hotel is worth booking for walkers who want the coast path at the garden gate — but pick somewhere else if you are a light sleeper bothered by a foghorn.
Book it if you want
- Walkers who want the coast path at the garden gate
- Couples looking for a remote clifftop stay with good food
Pick somewhere else if
- You are a light sleeper bothered by a foghorn
- You want a spacious, modern room with plenty of wardrobe space
Frequently asked questions
How far is Housel Bay Hotel from the centre of Cornwall?
Housel Bay Hotel is 41 km from the centre of Cornwall.
How do guests rate Housel Bay Hotel?
On Booking.com it scores 9.0/10 from 715 guest reviews.
How many stars does Housel Bay Hotel have?
Housel Bay Hotel is a 4-star hotel.
What amenities does Housel Bay Hotel offer?
Housel Bay Hotel offers sea Views, beachfront, 2 Restaurants, bar, garden and yoga Studio.
Weather & sea temperature — Cornwall
Right now: 16° air · 17° sea
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Housel Cove, Lizard, TR12 7PG, United Kingdom