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Wild Lizard

A Helford river retreat

Where Cornish countryside, charm and refined hospitality create the perfect getaway.

Set within 65 acres of verdant Cornish countryside, within an embracing curve of the Helford River near Falmouth, the Budock Vean Hotel offers a distinctive retreat that mixes relaxation with recreation. This four-star establishment boasts a variety of ways to stay, including 50 hotel rooms, three contemporary holiday homes and four self-catering cottages. They are all dog friendly with the exception of the suites in the hotel and the Frenchman’s Creek holiday home. 

The hotel’s Signature Rooms and Suites provide modern, contemporary spaces with views of the gardens and golf course, while the traditional Standard Rooms offer comfort without the garden vistas. All accommodations are equipped with fluffy dressing gowns and GAIA products, ensuring a comfortable stay. 

Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s commitment to fine dining. The main restaurant is open every day, with emphasis placed on locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy light lunches and special treats on the terrace, or conservatory, as well as afternoon tea served daily from 1pm to 4pm. 

For leisure activities, the Budock Vean offers a challenging nine-hole, 18-tee golf course set in mature parkland, originally designed in the 1920s by five-time Open Champion James Braid. The course is playable year-round due to the mild climate. 

The Natural Health Spa features three treatment rooms, a nail bar and a dedicated spa lounge. The 15-metre indoor heated swimming pool area includes an outdoor hot tub with stunning views across the gardens and golf course. A range of treatments using GAIA Skincare products is available, and guests are encouraged to explore the peaceful estate as part of their spa experience. 

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the hotel’s extensive grounds, the enchanting Helford River, and nearby beaches. Activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and nature walks provide a life-enhancing connection with the landscape. What’s more, the hotel’s private cove offers opportunities for boating and other water-based activities. 

Local attractions include Trebah Garden and Glendurgan Garden, both within walking distance, offering excursions for the curious explorer. 

The Budock Vean Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to immerse oneself in Cornwall’s natural beauty while enjoying a range of amenities par excellence.

www.budockvean.co.uk

Sample Menu

Starter

A salad of mozzarella, confit cherry tomatoes, basil, watercress
5 spice roasted Barbary duck breast, spiced poached pear, pak choi
Cornish monkfish and tiger prawns, plum tomato dressing, sauté potatoes, chorizo, rocket
Locally smoked salmon, boiled egg, capers, cornichons, shallots

To follow:
Carrot and coriander soup
or
Raspberry sorbet

Main

Roast loin of wild Cornish venison, garlic roast new potatoes, red cabbage, carrot, port and thyme jus
Seared tenderloin and slow cooked belly of locally reared pork, grain mustard mash, cavolo nero, apple purée, sherry jus
Grilled supreme of locally landed hake, sauté potatoes, red chard, crab and samphire butter
Pan fried fillet of wild Cornish turbot, saffron potatoes, beans, peas, nage

Dessert

Vanilla Crème brulée with short bread biscuits
Raspberry delice, pistachio nut and hazelnut cake with raspberry coulis
Sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce served with Cornish vanilla ice cream
A selection of cheeses supplied by Hawkridge Farm, Barber’s vintage Cheddar, Cornish yarg, Keltic gold served with quince jelly, celery and biscuits
Cornish strawberries and Cornish clotted cream
A selection of Roskilly’s ice cream and fresh fruit salad are also available

To finish:
Coffee, Cornish fudge and mints served in the comfort of our Lounges