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From121US$ /night
Check-in
24Mar2026Select date
Check-out
25Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

18, West St., Penryn, Penryn, United Kingdom
-
Close to Gyllyngvase Beach
Great
8.5
9.3
/10
4.0
4.6
/5

Accommodations

The Thirsty Scholar offers beautifully decorated en-suite rooms, providing a warm and welcoming environment. Each room is equipped with a TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and hair dryers. Guests also enjoy the use of a private terrace in the garden with views of the river.

Dining Experience

The restaurant features a menu focused on home-cooked meals, utilizing fresh produce sourced locally. Guests can also explore seasonal weekend specials that provide variety and delight. Traditional local ales and ciders enhance the dining experience.

Outdoor Space

The large sheltered beer garden provides guests with a spacious area to relax while enjoying views along the river towards Falmouth and the sea. An open fire adds to the outdoor ambiance during chillier evenings. This outdoor setting is complemented by a generous covered space for comfort.

Location Advantage

Conveniently situated just a five-minute walk from the quaint single-track railway line connecting Penryn with Truro and Falmouth. This railway offers an accessible option for exploring the surrounding area. The hotel's location makes it a strategic starting point for nearby attractions.

Breakfast Offering

A cooked English breakfast is served from 8 AM to 9 AM on weekdays, extending to 9 AM until 10 AM on weekends and Bank Holidays. This breakfast ensures a hearty start to the day for all guests. The emphasis is on quality and freshness.

Highlights

Accommodations: en-suite bed and breakfast rooms

Dining: home cooked fresh produce

Outdoor Space: large sheltered beer garden

Location: single track railway line

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through Penryn's Farmers' Market for fresh local produce.
  • Try the Cornish pasties at The Cornish Bakery for a tasty lunch.
  • Visit the historic Penryn Castle for stunning views and rich history.
  • Discover the art exhibits at the Falmouth Art Gallery nearby.
  • Take a scenic walk along the Penryn River to enjoy nature.
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Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
Standard Double Room
2 persons
14 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower

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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • No pets allowed

Sports & Fitness

  • Cycling

Dining

  • Bar/ Lounge area

Spa & Leisure

  • Entertainment

Room features

  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock
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The Thirsty Scholar Hotel Location

18, West St., Penryn, Penryn, United Kingdom
Map view
18, West St., Penryn, Penryn, United Kingdom
Nearby
Higher Market Street Town Hall
Penryn Museum
270 m
Restaurants
The Thirsty Scholar
0 m
18 West Street
Bango Kitchen
500 m
11B Commercial Road
Earth and Water
380 m
6 St. Thomas Street
Daaku
730 m
Islington Wharf Boatyard
Explore Penryn
Local Attractions & Activities
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Penryn Museum
Penryn Museum
4 minutes' walk
Local history and culture awaits at this small museum, featuring exhibits highlighting Penryn's rich maritime history.
University of Exeter
University of Exeter
15 minutes' walk
The prestigious university offers stunning grounds, galleries, and occasional public events worth checking out.
Falmouth University Falmouth Campus
Falmouth University Falmouth Campus
15 minutes' walk
Renowned for its art and design programs, visit the campus for exhibits or public workshops showcasing student creativity.
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
7-minute drive
A family-friendly museum dedicated to maritime heritage, offering interactive displays and breathtaking views of Falmouth.
Gyllyngvase Beach
15 minutes' walk
Golden sands and crystal-clear waters make this beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports.
Budock Water and the Lakes Circular Walk
Budock Water and the Lakes Circular Walk
25 minutes' walk
A scenic walking path that offers tranquil woodland views and lakeside serenity, ideal for those seeking relaxation.
Choy Hung House
1 minute' walk
Authentic Chinese dishes in a cozy setting, known for its dim sum and friendly service. Reservations not required.
Nemo's Fish And Chips
5 minutes' walk
Traditional fish and chips served fresh and crispy. A casual eatery popular with both locals and visitors alike.
Cafe 'on the quay'
9 minutes' walk
Waterfront cafe with stunning views, offering a variety of cakes, coffees, and light meals. Ideal for a relaxing break.
The Poly
The Poly
35 minutes' walk
A vibrant venue hosting films, live music, and community events, perfect for family outings and cultural experiences.
Falmouth Art Gallery
Falmouth Art Gallery
30 minutes' walk
Free entry to contemporary exhibitions and local artwork, providing a cultural hub suitable for art lovers and families.
Getting around the city
City Centre
Penryn2 min  ·  100 m
Airports
Penzance (PZE)56 min  ·  36.8 km
Newquay Cornwall International Airport (NQY)67 min  ·  44.2 km
Train
Penryn Train Station6 min  ·  500 m
Bus
Bus stop9 min  ·  700 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-20:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Thirsty Scholar guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Thirsty Scholar Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 111 verified reviews
8.8/10
Great
95%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.0/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Location
9.0/10
Paid Wi-Fi
2.5/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Warm welcome
Cosy room
Comfortable bed
Great shower
Quiet location
Cons
No wardrobe
Frayed curtains
Parking issues
Musty smell
Guest reviews
based on 189 reviews
8.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Thirsty Scholar
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Thirsty Scholar?
Check-in is available from 15:30 and check-out is required by 10:00.
Is there parking available at The Thirsty Scholar?
Free public parking is possible at a location nearby.
What are the nearby landmarks from The Thirsty Scholar?
Nearby landmarks include Pendennis Castle (6 km), Gyllyngvase Beach (3 km), and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall (5 km).
What dining options are available at The Thirsty Scholar?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant offering breakfast and dinner with locally sourced ingredients.
What amenities can guests find in their rooms at The Thirsty Scholar?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, and an en-suite bathroom.
What is offered for breakfast at The Thirsty Scholar?
Breakfast is included with the stay and features home-cooked options.
Are there any recreational areas at The Thirsty Scholar?
Guests can enjoy a garden and a sun terrace at the hotel.
What is the distance from The Thirsty Scholar to Newquay Cornwall Airport?
The hotel is 40 km from Newquay Cornwall Airport.
What types of cuisine can guests enjoy at the on-site restaurant of The Thirsty Scholar?
The restaurant focuses on serving home-cooked meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.
What nearby dining options exist to The Thirsty Scholar?
Nearby restaurants include Red Chillis, Chilli Indian Takeaway, and The Thirsty Scholar's own on-site dining, all within 0.5 km.
What unique features does The Thirsty Scholar offer as a historic property?
The hotel is a former coaching inn, featuring unique period features and a cozy atmosphere.
Is Wi-Fi available at The Thirsty Scholar?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room