Behind the Wall

High stone walls, old sentinel trees, a driveway that climbs away from the bustle of town. Slate roofs, mullioned windows and a bell tower all make up this striking Grade II* listed retreat.

It began in the 1830s as a family home for William Tweedy, a Truro banker with thirteen children and a serious gardening habit. In 1883 it became a convent for the Anglican Sisters of the Epiphany, who stayed for a century and built the chapel. They left in 1984 and it has been a hotel ever since.

Two Rosettes and a Terrace

The restaurant holds two AA Rosettes and looks out over the lawns. Head Chef Ollie Wyatt’s menu changes with the seasons and leans on Cornish produce. Enjoy afternoon tea, available every day, or treat yourselves to an indulgent Cornish cream tea – jam first please, visitors! Dine on the terrace in summer and fireside in winter, a great shout for relaxed eats and well appointed for more formal dining. Sunday lunch brings a choice of roasts each week. For afternoon tea, be sure to book at least 24 hours ahead, giving notice for special dietary requirements.

Only after a drink? The bar, fresh in ambience and welcoming, is well stocked. Sip the evening away on a Thursday – it’s Cocktail Club time.

Staying Over

With plenty of bedrooms between the main house and The Courtyard, you can slumber in complete comfort surrounded by charm and character. The Courtyard rooms keep their arched doorways, flagstone floors and exposed brick.

The sisters’ chapel is now The Great Hall, with a vaulted ceiling you’d expect in a church, because it was one. Naturally, it’s a popular choice for weddings. The Alverton has a full schedule hosting both private and public events, with murder mysteries, tastings and a New Year’s Eve ball among the events on their calendar. Check out their ‘What’s On’ page to see what exciting things they have planned for the year ahead.