Zennor offers a raw, authentic Cornish experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Staying here means waking up to the sound of the Atlantic and being surrounded by ancient moorland. It is a place for walkers, food lovers, and anyone wanting to escape the crowds of St Ives while staying just a few miles down the coast.
From cosy guest houses steeped in history to camping on working farms, here is our curated guide to sleeping in Zennor.
Our Top Picks
These three properties offer the best connection to the village’s unique landscape and culture.
1. The White House (Best for History)
Located right in the village centre next to the church, The White House is a Grade II listed guest house that works hand-in-hand with the local pub.
- The Vibe: Historic and homely. Built in 1838, it has plenty of character and is just steps away from the legendary Mermaid Chair in St Senara’s Church.
- The Stay: It offers a range of rooms, including ensuite doubles. Breakfast is often served in the conservatory, and you have the Tinners Arms next door for evening pints by the fire.
2. Tremedda Farm (Best for Camping & Cottages)
For a true taste of rural Zennor, Tremedda Farm offers accommodation on a working dairy farm—the home of Moomaid of Zennor ice cream.
- The Vibe: Rustic and authentic. You are right in the middle of the landscape, with cows grazing nearby and the coast path accessible from the fields.
- The Stay: They offer a traditional campsite for tents and campers with spectacular sea views. For more comfort, they also have a self-catering barn conversion that sleeps two, perfect for a romantic hideaway.
3. The Gurnard’s Head (Best for Foodies)
Although often associated with Zennor, The Gurnard’s Head is actually located further west along the coast road, well outside the village itself.
- The Vibe: Relaxed, earthy, and deeply comfortable. It stands bold and yellow against the heather and feels like a sanctuary from the elements, with Roberts radios in the rooms and Welsh blankets on the beds.
- The Stay: The rooms are simple but luxurious, often with views over the moors or the ocean. It is worth the extra drive for the food—you just have to roll downstairs for an incredible supper and one of the best breakfasts in the county.
Parking & Logistics
- The White House: Parking is available nearby in the village car park (honesty box), but spaces can be tight in peak summer.
- Tremedda Farm: Ample space for campers and cottage guests on the farm grounds.
- The Gurnard’s Head: Has its own large private car park for guests, which is very convenient given its location on the open coast road.
Bags dropped off?
Now it is time to hike the cliffs and find the mermaid. View our guide to the best things to do in Zennor.