Great Western
South West England Cornwall Newquay
- From £70 a night
- 66 Rooms
- Pub with Rooms
Historic clifftop hotel overlooking Great Western Beach, with the surf and buzz of Newquay just steps away
Looking for a seaside escape in Newquay? It's time to stop searching. Primely positioned on the headland above Great Western Beach, this handsome Victorian building has been part of the town’s story for nearly 150 years, with golden sand, Atlantic views and the lively centre all within easy reach.
Owned by St Austell Brewery, it's undergoing a multi-million-pound refurbishment, with half the bedrooms revamped in 2026; the rest, plus the bar and restaurant, are planned for the next couple of years. Still open for business in the meantime, it's a fabulous base for discovering all Cornwall’s north coast has to offer.
The Great Western was originally built as a hotel in 1879, designed by renowned Cornish architect Silvanus Trevail to welcome visitors arriving by the newly established railway. Its elevated position was carefully chosen to take advantage of the superb sea outlooks, and they're still a big attraction today.
The first phase of the renovation is finished, with the Trenarren Wing's 26 en-suite bedrooms given a makeover. They take inspiration from the coast, combining sandy tones and ocean blues with natural materials and details such as surfboard-shaped mirrors, striped fabrics and artwork celebrating Newquay’s history. Sixteen have sea panoramas, and seven are dog-friendly; breakfast is included with B&B stays. Choose from 'Cosy Cabin' up to 'Premium View' and 'Family'.
Elsewhere, the classic Great Western rooms retain more of the building’s traditional character and are next in line for a refurb. So, for now, there’s a mix of old and new.
Downstairs, the restaurant offers pub favourites and more contemporary dishes such as katsu curry and South West dayboat catch, plus pizzas. Oh, and don't miss the Sunday carvery. When the sun's shining, the water-view terrace is the obvious place to settle, whether you're having a meal or just a drink – spritz o'clock at sunset, anyone?
If you're keen to explore, Great Western Beach and Fistral are ideal for surfing and swimming – the latter’s a half-hour stroll away or a 10-minute drive. The town centre is close enough to wander into for independent shops, cafés, restaurants and nightlife, while the surrounding coastline offers excellent walking in both directions.
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Open
Open all year.Pricing
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Location
Contact Website 01637 87 201 0 Great Western, Cliff Road, Newquay, Cornwall TR7 2NEFeatures
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