Great Western Newquay Unveils First Phase of Bedroom Refurbishment

One of Newquay’s most beloved landmarks has just had a serious makeover. St Austell Brewery has completed the first phase of a three-part refurbishment at the Great Western, revealing 26 newly overhauled bedrooms that swap out the old neutral palette for something altogether more fitting of their clifftop setting.

A New Look for an old Favourite

Perched above Great Western Beach, the Great Western has been part of Newquay’s story for almost 150 years. The pub and hotel was originally purpose-built and designed by renowned Cornish architect Silvanus Trevail, opening in 1879 to welcome visitors arriving by train following the arrival of the railway to the town. It remains one of Newquay’s most recognisable historic landmarks.

The 26 rooms sitting across three floors in the Trenarren Wing have been fully overhauled as part of the first phase, marking what St Austell Brewery is calling a significant milestone in the building’s wider transformation.

What the New Rooms Look Like

Gone is the pared-back, neutral style. In its place, guests will find ocean blues and sandy yellows, cork headboards, walk-in waterfall showers, wooden surfboard-shaped mirrors and seaside-striped furnishings. The design leans into the coastal setting without feeling gimmicky.

There are thoughtful nods to the building’s past too, with artwork featuring historic images of Newquay and original Great Western Railway coat hangers on the back of bedroom doors.

Of the 26 refurbished rooms, 16 offer sea views. There is also a family room and seven dog-friendly bedrooms among them.

What’s Coming Next

This is only the beginning. Further phases of refurbishment are planned, with future works set to focus on additional bedrooms as well as the bar and communal spaces. It is the fifth major refurbishment St Austell Brewery has carried out across its 45 managed pubs in the past two years.

Andrew Turner, Chief Operating Officer at St Austell Brewery, said: “Completing the first phase of refurbishment at the Great Western is an important step in ensuring this iconic building continues to thrive for generations to come. Our focus has been on creating welcoming bedrooms that reflect the Great Western’s unique coastal setting, whilst honouring the pub’s incredible history. With further phases planned, we’re excited to continue enhancing the guest experience at this site, for locals and those visiting from further afar.”

The Basics

The Great Western currently offers 66 bedrooms in total, alongside a sun terrace and restaurant overlooking the beach. It is a popular spot for surfers, walkers, families and business travellers.

Double rooms including breakfast start from £114. You can book directly on their website.