THE ALVERTON
About the Castle Hotel
The Alverton, Truro - A Cornish Secret
The Alverton, a historic Grade II* listed building in the heart of Truro, offers a tranquil oasis that punches well above its weight in Cornwall's burgeoning hospitality scene. This four-star hotel, once a prestigious private house and later a convent, masterfully juxtaposes its heritage charm with a contemporary, luxurious yet homely design, earning its reputation as the 'secret-in-the-city'.
Location
Situated on a gentle hill, The Alverton enjoys a 'cracking location' just a short stroll from Truro's magnificent cathedral and the lively town centre. While a mere 30 kilometres from Newquay's coastal buzz, its city-centre position offers easy access to urban amenities while retaining a sense of secluded peace. Nearby attractions include the Royal Cornwall Museum and Victoria Gardens, both within comfortable walking distance.
Style and Character
This 18th-century Grade II listed hotel is a study in refined elegance, seamlessly weaving urban chic with its rich heritage. The main house proudly retains original features such as its bell tower, slate roof, arched mullioned windows, and ivy-clad walls. Stepping inside, guests are met with arched doorways, original flagstone flooring, and exposed brickwork, all complemented by the judicious use of materials from top designer brands. The truly breathtaking Great Hall, a nod to the building's past as a chapel, offers a display of nineteenth-century Gothic Revival interior design that feels akin to a grand cathedral. A more recent addition, The Courtyard, provides a light-filled, relaxed atmosphere for meetings, enhancing the property's versatility.
Service and Facilities
The Alverton promises the warmest Cornish welcome, delivered by a friendly, award-winning team. Housekeeping plays a crucial role in ensuring the hotel remains clean, fresh, and tidy. The Alverton Bar and Terrace is an ideal setting for after-work cocktails and casual bites, with experienced staff offering expert advice on its impressive selection of wines, artisan spirits, local brews, and Cornish ales. For cooler months, the main lounge features a roaring log fire, creating a toasty environment for guests to unwind. The hotel is also home to an abundance of rare flora, including a fern-leaved beech, paperbark maple, and a tulip tree, adding to its tranquil atmosphere.
Rooms
The Alverton offers a range of room categories, each distinct and designed with comfort in mind. Classic rooms, some of which were once servants' quarters or nuns' bedrooms, are cosy and stylish, featuring double or twin beds, a desk, and an en-suite bathroom. While some may present minor quirks like stairs or restricted views, they possess a unique charm and four-star facilities. Larger rooms, often found in The Courtyard, offer luxury furnishings, roll-top baths, walk-in showers, and original features. Stylish rooms, also in The Courtyard, boast British king-size beds and beautiful en-suite bathrooms, with some opening directly onto the external courtyard for easy parking access. Garden view rooms provide charming vistas of the hotel's gardens and terrace. Executive Suites are exceptionally spacious, featuring separate lounge areas with sofas and refrigerators, all framed by the hotel and garden views through mullioned windows. Each room type includes amenities such as tea and coffee facilities, a flat-screen TV, and heating.
Food and Drink
The Alverton celebrates fine cuisine, offering a dining experience that is a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds. The hotel's restaurant is a relaxing haven serving a wide range of British favourites, expertly cooked by talented, two AA Rosette chefs passionate about creating delicious dishes that capture the taste of Cornwall. Signature offerings include classics like smoked salmon and scrambled egg, Eggs Benedict or Royale, and 'The Alverton Grill' featuring a statement steak 'n' eggs. Guests can also enjoy focaccia sandwiches, charcuterie boards, burgers, Simon's weekly-changing pies, pan-roasted lamb rump, and tempura monkfish tails. Breakfast is particularly lauded, with options ranging from the full works and smoked haddock to pancakes drizzled in maple syrup. The sun-drenched terrace is ideal for a Cornish afternoon tea.
Value for Money
As a historic four-star hotel, The Alverton presents a compelling proposition. The inclusion of high-quality dining, comfortable and characterful rooms, and a prime city location, all delivered with warm Cornish hospitality, suggests a strong return on investment for discerning travellers. While specific pricing varies by season and room category, the overall experience promises a luxurious yet homely stay that feels decidedly worthwhile.
Accessibility
While the historic nature of the building presents certain challenges inherent to its age and structure, The Alverton does offer amenities such as heating and flat-screen TVs in all rooms. Further details on specific accessibility features, such as lift access or adapted rooms, would require direct inquiry.
Family-Friendly
The Alverton's relaxed atmosphere and comfortable facilities make it a welcoming choice for families. The spacious Executive Suites, with their separate lounge areas, are particularly well-suited for those travelling with children. The hotel's food offerings, including classic British dishes and breakfast options, are likely to appeal to a wide range of tastes. While not explicitly detailed as a dedicated family resort, the comfortable amenities and charming surroundings provide a pleasant base for exploring Truro with younger guests.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- 24-hour reception
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Electric vehicle charging station
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Room service
- Laundry
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
Room features
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor