The Sandy Duck, Falmouth, Cornwall, UK - Explore & Book
"After sailing the world as a stewardess on luxury yachts, Freyja Ducker returned to the UK to be nearer family. But she decided to put her hospitality experience to good use, scouring the country for the perfect B&B before stumbling across this faded Edwardian townhouse. The results of her year-long renovation are stunning. Behind the hot-pink front door lie a light-filled breakfast room, a cosy lounge where a fire crackles in winter, and 8 beautiful bedrooms that blend Scandinavian simplicity with English quirkiness. Throughout, calming colours and clean lines are warmed by snuggly throws and sheepskins, and walls are dotted with artworks by Freyja’s mother and sister, including an eye-catching piece created from the roof’s old joists.We were greeted with enthusiastic tail-wagging by resident dog Rhubarb, who set the scene for the informal, friendly atmosphere: the feel here is more home than hotel. It’s ideally located for exploring – the town centre is a 10-minute walk in one direction, beaches 10 minutes in the other, and the Roseland Peninsula lies just across the Fal Estuary. Return to sink-into sofas and an excellent night’s sleep, followed by a slap-up Cornish breakfast. It’s easy to see why The Sandy Duck has received rave reviews since opening in spring 2017, and we loved it, too. Highs Stylish and great-value rooms, all but one with views across Falmouth Bay, and some with window seats or freestanding tubsA relaxed, kick-your-shoes-off vibe that puts you instantly at easeDelicious breakfasts packed with local produce, plus daily home-baked cakes in your roomFalmouth itself – a vibrant university town with an array of restaurants, boutiques, museums and galleries, plus 4 beaches A great option for a car-free break - it’s easily accessible by train, and you can explore on foot and ferry Lows It’s on the edge of town, but the upshots are peace and plenty of parking – and it’s an easy stroll into the centreHot breakfast dishes are only served until 9.30am, but you can linger as long as you want over the cold buffetNo lunch or dinner menu, but there are plenty of restaurants within walking distanceFreyja is waiting for an alcohol licence so there’s no honesty bar – in the meantime, bring your own drinks to enjoy in your room" - Abi Dare
