Review: The Headland Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall

Nestled along the picturesque Cornish coastline, the Headland Hotel offers an idyllic retreat for anyone looking to experience a luxurious stay.

With a wealth of amenities, breathtaking views, and exceptional hospitality, you will undoubtedly feel pampered from the moment you step through its grand doors.

I stayed at the Headland Hotel for two nights in July. Here I share my honest review of our stay and explain everything the hotel has to offer.

Location

As I approached the hotel, I was first struck by the grandeur of the building; an iconic structure perched next to Fistral Beach. 

After heading inside, I was met with an atmosphere of old charm and grand interiors. But not in a stuffy way; staff welcome you with friendly smiles and a genuine warmth.

The Headland Hotel occupies a dramatic location, towering over the coastline and effortlessly surviving the strong winds which batter the hotel year round. 

Given that Fistral Beach – right next to the hotel – is world-renowned for surfing, the wind should come as no surprise.

It creates a wonderful juxtaposition between the wild climate outside and the relaxing sanctuary inside the hotel. 

Located right on the doorstep of the thriving Cornish town of Newquay, the Headland Hotel is ideally situated for both local attractions and extraordinary coastal scenery. 

Many key attractions and activities are within walking distance of the hotel – from e-biking fun and surfing lessons to beautiful Cornish beaches and gorgeous gardens.

In terms of transport connections, the hotel is easily accessible by both road, rail and air. There is ample parking available at the hotel for those arriving by car, which is how I arrived.

If you prefer public transport – or you’re travelling from further afield – both the local train station and Newquay airport are only a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation

Rooms & suites

At the Headland Hotel, you can expect a comfortable and luxurious stay in their rooms and suites.

There are a range of options available, from classic cosy rooms to ocean view suites. Our room was wonderfully spacious, with a four-poster bed, sofa area and large bathroom.

If I’m being really honest, the room felt like it could do with a bit of a spruce up in places.

There was a patch of peeling wallpaper and the bathroom felt a little dated. Plus, a king-size bed instead of a double would be a nice touch for a luxury hotel. But I am being picky!

That said, I can’t fault the spectacular views. Out towards the front of the hotel were dramatic views out to the Atlantic ocean.

While out the left-hand windows in our room, the view of Fistral Beach and its many surfers was a lovely addition.

Cottages

For those seeking a more private and homely experience, the Headland Hotel also offers a selection of cottages.

These charming, self-catered beach side homes feature fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and private outdoor spaces.

The different cottage options available are as follows:

• Luxury Hot Tub Cottages
• Sea View Cottages
• Village View Cottages
• Storm Watching Cottages
• Three Bedroom Cottages
• Two Bedroom Cottages
• One Bedroom Cottages

Those staying in the cottages still get unlimited access to all the facilities at The Headland Hotel.

But it’s nice to have the option for those who may prefer self-catering or need to cater for the whole family. 

The Headland Spa

The real highlight of a stay at The Headland Hotel is the spa and Aqua Club. This is the place to immerse yourself in a world of relaxation, rejuvenation, and luxury. 

The Headland Spa is within the hotel itself and is the perfect place to be pampered. The pristine pool is an adults-only area and an oasis of calm and tranquillity. 

There are also a number of thermal experiences at the Headland Spa for the ultimate spa break. 

I spent hours melting away my stress in the hydrotherapy pool, sweating it out in the Cornish salt steam room, and unwinding in the Swedish sauna. All finished with a refreshing aromatherapy shower.

Or for those of you who prefer to stay active, take advantage of the state-of-the-art gym and personal fitness instructors on hand to help.

A visit to The Headland Spa would not be complete without indulging in a treatment. I enjoyed the most incredible massage and facial – it was one of the best I’ve had; utter bliss. 

As well as signature massage and facial treatments, you can try detoxifying mud treatments, pre and post natal treatments for mums-to-be, or nail treatments. 

The Aqua Club

Another highlight of The Headland Hotel is its spectacular swimming centre.

This luxurious space combines the most exquisite design with sublime views out to the Atlantic. 

Inside, there are three different pools to choose from: 

• Lap Pool – for getting in those lengths.
• Hydrotherapy Pool – for relaxing and unwinding.
• Children’s Splash Pool – for kids to paddle and have fun. 

Outside is a welcoming sun terrace with deck chairs. Perfect for those summer days where you can lie back with a glass of fizz in hand while soaking up the sun rays.

There is also the thermal Vitality Pool for an outdoor hydrotherapy experience. While the heated Sunset Spa Pool and Edge Pool offer unforgettable views over the Atlantic.

It’s a space of total bliss and every area of the Aqua Club has been carefully thought out to provide the most luxurious spa experience. 

Finally, I’d recommend having a delicious lunch at The Deck. Located inside the Aqua Club, the Mediterranean-inspired dishes include flatbreads, pizzas and fresh salads. 

This is also a great spot for breakfast if you’d like an alternative option to the hotel restaurant. 

Dining experience

RenMor

The recently opened RenMor restaurant is a real gem of the hotel.

Its interiors are beautifully designed, making the most of the sea views with 12-foot windows along the entirety of the restaurant. 

RenMor’s menu is a showcase of the very best Cornish produce, with a focus on only the highest quality, locally sourced ingredients.

The result is a mouth-watering selection of dishes which encapsulate the best of British cuisine. 

We started with some top-notch cocktails and delicious nibbles – a teaser of what was to follow. 

Our starters kicked off the meal with a bang – before the chef kindly snuck in a bonus dish of garden pea ravioli, which was a delight.

For mains we had lamb and Hereford beef with impossibly tasty RenMor chips and barbecued tenderstem broccoli.

We were so stuffed that we couldn’t squeeze in dessert – instead rolling up to our room for a cosy night’s sleep. 

The Terrace

The Terrace offers a more casual dining experience in a relaxed, informal setting.

When the weather is good, there is a beautiful terrace (hence the name) for alfresco dining.

Unfortunately it was too windy to use when I stayed, but I can imagine it being the most idyllic spot for a bite to eat.

At the Terrace you can enjoy a selection of classic dishes, from salads and pastas to burgers and fish & chips.

I had the Muntjac deer ragu and tagliatelle, which was hearty and tasty. 

There is also a selection of light bites and sandwiches if you’re feeling peckish at lunchtime but don’t want a heavy meal. 

Afternoon tea

As if I hadn’t inhaled enough calories during my stay, I couldn’t leave without sampling the afternoon tea. 

The experience started with a couple of tasty nibbles – a nice touch before the main event. 

This was followed by the traditional afternoon tea assortment. Starting with elegant finger sandwiches, then fresh scones, and finally delicate sweet treats to finish.

It was indulgent and delicious; undoubtedly one of the best afternoon teas in Cornwall. Yet again the magnificent sea views only added to the experience.

Final words

A stay at The Headland Hotel is a welcome retreat from the chaos of life. Its wild and dramatic location is a captivating contrast to the peace and tranquillity within. 

The food is fantastic, while the staff are friendly, attentive, and constantly striving to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.

Spa and wellness facilities are the crowning glory of this hotel, making it one of the best spa breaks in Cornwall. 

Make sure you save this luxury Cornwall hotel for later or book your stay now. 

Planning a trip to the area? Read my guides to the best seafood restaurants in Cornwall, the best places to go paddleboarding in Cornwall and the best things to do when it rains in Cornwall.