Since last October we have undertaken a dramatic refurbishment of this beautiful hotel, which lies at the heart of the picturesque Cornish fishing village of St Mawes.

We have had a home in the village for many years and when the opportunity arose to acquire this landmark right on the harbourside, with its stunning views across the bay, we simply couldn’t resist.

The Idle Rocks is a home away from home; a place to relax, kick off your shoes and re-engage with the simpler pleasures in life.

In mid-June we will be re-opening the doors and welcoming our guests to the new Idle Rocks.

We very much look forward to welcoming you.

David and Karen Richards

The Idle Rocks has the most enviable location in St Mawes, overlooking the harbour with views across the river Fal to Falmouth.  Our 20 bedrooms, most with stunning vistas over the bay, have been thoughtfully designed, each having their own unique identity with fabulous fabrics and decor that leave you in no doubt that you are by the sea.

After a long day lazing on the beach, our south facing terrace is the perfect place to relax, have a long drink, and watch the world go by.  You may even see your dinner being landed on the harbourside.

The Idle Rock’s restaurant, run by our head chef, Peter Conlin, is a celebration of Cornwall; showcasing a range of fabulous produce that has been sourced locally using only seasonal fresh ingredients.  In many cases it will have been swimming right on our doorstep only a few hours earlier and while the food is of the very highest standard our setting is very relaxed.

St Mawes is a community where life revolves around the sea and fishing is central to village life. You’ll see the small fishing boats heading out in the morning and returning in the early evening with their fresh catches of lobsters and crabs.

The nearby Carrick Roads is one of the largest natural harbours in the world, making the location a favourite mooring for passing yachts with its calm waters and sheltered bays.  Two beaches on opposite sides of the harbour are great places to go swimming, rock pooling, catch the sun or launch a dinghy.

St Mawes lies on the Roseland Peninsula, which has been designated part of Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for the quality of its landscape and unrivalled coastal scenery.  From the village there are spectacular costal walks where you will find secluded coves, delightful creeks, wooded countryside, tranquil beaches and scenic headlands.

For those who simply want wander out of the front door of the Idle Rocks, the village is a great place to explore with galleries featuring the work of local artists, and even our very own sub-tropical gardens.

IN THE SHELL

Carlingford oyster

Cornish Assured oyster

Native oyster

Baked scallop in the shell
pickled raisins & white port

Hot roast shells

TO START

Glazed line caught mackerel
apple & watercress

The Idle Rocks moules
warm Cornish stout, brown bread

Crispy rare breed pig terrine
piccalilli mayonnaise, egg yolk

Summer vegetable salad
toasted seeds, tomato & fresh goats curd

TO FOLLOW

Day boat caught sole ‘veronique’
Grapes, scallions, verjus

Poached lobster tail
Roasted leeks, hand rolled macaroni, stuffed chicken wing

New season lamb ‘en croute’
salsa verdi, gravy

Aged cheddar & leek pudding
tomato jam, seasonal young vegetables

TO FINISH

‘Strawberries & cream’
panna cotta, strawberries, basil

Pineapple Carpaccio
Coconut, gorse flower, passion fruit

Classic crème brûlée
Cornish raspberries

Pistachio cake
Cherries, yoghurt sorbet

Chocolate brownie soufflé
Hazelnut ice cream, chocolate sauce