Since starting life as a Victorian railway hotel, the Polurrian has warmly welcomed visitors to Cornwall and the Lizard Peninsula.
Famous figures such as Marconi, Winston Churchill and Clark Gable have stayed here, taking advantage of Polurrian’s spectacular sea views and unique Cornish character. Enjoy the relaxed luxury of the hotel itself, or venture out to explore the nearby areas of Mullion, Porthleven and Kynance Cove.
Retreat of the rich and famous
The original Polurrian Bay Hotel was built in 1890 as a railway hotel to serve the now defunct Helston branch line. Perched on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the Lizard, it was an impressive building appealing to distinguished guests. In 1901, Guglielmo Marconi stayed at the hotel while sending the first ever transatlantic radio messages from nearby Poldhu Cove.
In 1909 a fire devastated the original hotel, leaving it in ruins. The only parts of this original structure that now remain are the terraces and steps near the tennis courts. Three years later, a new hotel – the one you see today – was opened on the site.
Over the years, Polurrian has been a hive of activity. During the Second World War, the hotel became an officers’ mess for nearby RAF Predannack. In 1953, Hollywood stars Clark Gable and Gene Tierney stayed while filming scenes for the romance adventure Never Let Me Go.
Between 1947 and 2005 the hotel changed ownership three times, eventually being acquired by Luxury Family Hotels in 2011. Almost immediately, an extensive refurbishment and restoration plan was put into action, reinstating the building to its former glory and creating a family friendly paradise.
Luxury Family Hotels
There are some aspects of luxury that are simply priceless. At the Polurrian, it’s our cliff top position, perfect for sitting back and watching the sunset. It’s the short stroll down to the beach, and the light that pours into every room. More than this, it’s the almost intuitive way that we take care of our guests, with every need anticipated.
A personal brand of luxury runs through everything we do, from the free fruit we provide for children to the warm welcome we’ll give your four-legged friends. Our kitchen is supplied with herbs grown in the garden, while other ingredients are carefully sourced from local suppliers. We think it’s these little things that make all the difference – to create lasting memories from your stay, just visit our spa and restaurant.
Above all this, however, we give you time: time to spend together, time as a couple and time for yourself. Because we look after the little things, you can focus on those that matter. And that’s what luxury is really all about.
Cosy, standard rooms feature bright decor, and some have bay views and picture windows. All offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. The 2-room family suites add bunk beds. Room service is available.
Amenities include a private beach and a tennis court, plus a gym and a spa with heated and seasonal pools. The hotel's casual and fine-dining eateries both serve Cornish favorites. There's also a cinema and a game room; high tea with nannies on hand and babysitting services are also available (fee).
Amenities
Latest Reviews
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Tiffanie Robinson
19 Feb 2018
4.0
Parking: 3.0
Accessibility: 4.0
Toilets: 4.0
Staff: 4.0
Read All ReviewsI was very happy with the short stay at the Polurrian Bay Hotel. The meals were excellent and the staff were exceptionally bright and cheerful. The room for the disabled is on the side away from the sea. Also, there is a lift for disable user which then permits access to the terrace, which is also a bonus. Negative for this hotel, Spa is up a steep flight of stairs and did not see a lift, so perhaps not the best option if unsteady on your legs or wheelchair bound! Overall, a lovely attractive place to stay with a homely feel.