If you would like a taste of city living with the laid-back ethos of Cornwall, look no further than Truro. Cornwall’s only city and the county’s capital since the 1870’s, it rumbles along to the irresistibly relaxed Cornish rhythm and boasts easy access to culture, country and coast. Essentially, it is the perfect year-round destination for a dreamy getaway in Cornwall.

With a rich history, Truro’s commanding 19th Century cathedral and criss-cross of cobbled streets peppered with independent retailers, eateries and bars bely a much greater lineage. With origins dating back to the Doomsday Book and beyond, it is a fascinating time capsule effortlessly combined with the modern day to create an architectural hotchpotch and eclectic jigsaw of sites and sights.

Stay in one of our 5-star luxury cottages near Truro and trace your way around the streets, before unearthing the surroundings. Away from the city centre is the impressive River Fal network, perfect for those wishing to escape the city for a day trip to Falmouth or St Mawes. 

Where to start? Truro is bursting at the seams with restaurants and bistros serving something for every palate and is also host to a number of foodie festivals. Strut out the door of your luxury self-catering accommodation and enjoy some of the finest restaurants in Cornwall. With so much on offer, your only problem will be deciding where to go to next.

To whet your appetite, luxurious bistro Bustophers entices patrons with a menu of modern British cuisine with a European influence, accompanied by an extensive wine list and unique selection of cocktails. For the best burgers in town, head to either Sam’s in the City or Hubbox; both are famed for their American-inspired food skilfully prepared with Cornish ingredients. 

On Old Bridge Street, Chorley’s serves a fusion of South African cuisine. Try their signature dishes and transport your senses to the sunny climes of South Africa; their boerewors, bunny chow and biltong are divine. Meanwhile, both vegans and non-vegans alike should visit the Cornish Vegan restaurant, where a beautifully crafted plant-based menu will leave you salivating. 

Truro’s premier cocktail house is Mannings, a favourite of both locals and visitors. The specialist knowledge of the staff and range of boutique concoctions mean there is always something exciting to try and it’s a real performance watching the mixologists work their magic.

For larger parties, the Old Grammar School’s spacious, social feel is great with a glass in your hand and friends at your side. On balmy afternoons and evenings the comfortable wooden benches are a sublime way to watch Truro’s traders and townfolk bustle past. Just around the corner, Zafiros is also a popular haunt, loved for its quirky vibes and indulgent drinks list.

For something a little more relaxed, pop along to Lemon Quay Market and nestle into one of the upstairs café's cosy armchairs. If you are looking for something sweet on a crisp winter’s day, you can’t go wrong their hot white chocolate, a dribble-worthy twist on the classic favourite. Another day, make sure you visit Bread & Butter on River Street, a hugely popular café run by a friendly, dedicated team.

Cornwall is such a unique place and its history is something that locals are very proud of. To learn more, the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro is a beacon for Cornish heritage and culture showcasing the importance of local legacies and traditions and the county’s links to the wider world. 

The Hall for Cornwall is the city’s space for theatre, live music, comedy and family events. The calendar continually provides top-class shows and is certainly worth keeping an eye on when staying in your Boutique Retreat in Truro.

The Westcountry is also famed for its greenery - pay a call to Trelissick Garden (you can get there directly by boat) and you’ll be rewarded with not only a National Trust site, but a circular walk along the banks of the Fal River. Better still, they are dog friendly too!

Just a short drive from your luxury cottage in Truro is Killiow Golf, a 900-year-old estate with an 18-hole course for all abilities, and perhaps more importantly the open space for concentration, relaxation and appreciation of Cornwall and all its magnificence.