Inside The Alverton the aesthetic leans traditional country house rather than contemporary boutique hotel. It's not trying to be anything other than what it is, and for a certain kind of guest, that is precisely the appeal. Relaxed, friendly and stylish with an excellent team to match. Several bedrooms have been refreshed in recent years with a sympathetic hand, and the newer courtyard rooms and suites are the ones to book (they have their own shared sitting room where you can enjoy drinks and Afternoon Tea). They run generously large, several have both bath and shower, and it is worth spending a few minutes on the room selector before confirming your room type. The Captain's Suite is a favourite of ours and played host to over 103 essential workers during Covid. Previously known as The Chapel Suite, it's huge and features a stunning stained-glass window above the free-standing copper bath as well as a lovely en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower.
The gardens at The Alverton come into their own in warmer weather. The terrace is a good spot for a drink before dinner, particularly on a still Cornish evening with the soft glow of the sunset. Food is enjoyable and honest, and their Afternoon Tea has built a loyal local following and remains a reliable draw for people not staying the night. In fact, you could easily find yourself spending a few hours enjoying a drink and the stillness of the garden.
Location is one of The Alverton's many strengths; Truro is walkable from the door, but the hotel sits just far enough outside the centre to feel removed from it, useful if you have come to Cornwall to slow down rather than navigate one-way systems. It works very well as a wedding venue and as a place to propose; the setting feels more like a country house hotel than anything else.
Staff are unhurried and easy to be around; relaxed without being neglectful, attentive without being too present. The Alverton is not Cornwall's most talked-about address and seems in no rush to become one. What it offers instead is warmth, genuine character and the comfort of a luxury Cornwall hotel that has a loyal following. It's worth noting that sister luxury hotel The Greenbank in Falmouth is only 25 minutes away and is a great place to go for lunch, drinks or dinner overlooking the water. It's certainly the best place to stay in Falmouth.