Hotel VARA
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Avg. S$130 /night, 3/23 - 3/24
S$245
per night
S$187
per night
S$128
per night
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About
#4 of 5 hotels in Truro
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Hotel VARA makes an excellent base to stay in Cornwall, whether you're here to explore, visit the city or work. The hotel sits on one of the best & leafiest streets in Truro, within walking distance of the city centre. As soon as you step through the gorgeous façade of this classic Victorian fronted townhouse, the informal friendly atmosphere wins you over. Relax with a drink in the bar/lounge, or take a short stroll into town to shop & browse around Cornwall's capital city. With the north & south coasts easily accessible, Truro is centrally located for discovering the whole county, with a scandi style breakfast & free on-site parking at the hotel. - We ask all large vans to park at the back of the hotel in our main car park - If you would like to find out more about us or if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us. We are always happy to help! Dog Friendly - If you have booked one of our dog friendly rooms, the £10 per dog, per night charge will be charged prior to arrival.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Free breakfast
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Taxi service
Conference facilities
Baggage storage
Non-smoking hotel
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Snack bar
Special diet menus
Shared lounge / TV area
First aid kit
Room features
Allergy-free room
Desk
Housekeeping
Bottled water
Private bathrooms
Coffee / tea maker
Flatscreen TV
Hair dryer
Electric kettle
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Quiet
Business
Languages Spoken
English
Location
49 Falmouth Road, Truro TR1 2HL England
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 72 out of 100
72
129 Restaurants
within 1 kilometer
51 Attractions
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Detailed Reviews
Very friendly, comfortable , clean hotel. I had especially good service from Jenson who showed my personally to my room and arranged for me to eat slightly earlier than advertised opening time of the kitchen in the evening.
I had a small single room which although adequate, was very basic and lacked any of the finishing touches I would have expected from a "boutique" hotel.
The included continental breakfast was very good.
For those arriving on foot be aware that the hotel is situated at the top of a very steep hill.
I had a small single room which although adequate, was very basic and lacked any of the finishing touches I would have expected from a "boutique" hotel.
The included continental breakfast was very good.
For those arriving on foot be aware that the hotel is situated at the top of a very steep hill.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 24 Sept 2023
Hello "Passenger232544", thank you for your score and kind words! Jensen is a top chap! You have brought up some interesting points which we have taken "on-board". Cornwall county is on the higher end of "above sea-level" geography, with hills being a very common occurrence, certainly as it is surrounded by 3 seas. The Bristol Channel, The Celtic Sea and the English Channel. However when you make to the top, what great sights you see! Now you know this: we all thoroughly look forward to seeing you again on your next visit. Our hugest thanks Hotel VARA Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I stayed with my partner this past weekend and we stayed in The Studio. The room was huge and had a lovely large bay window. The room was serviced every day by a very chirpy lady called Nilisha ( apologies if I have spelt the name wrong). We enjoyed our healthy breakfast each morning. The roaring fire was cosy in the afternoon and evenings… the food and service was simple but of a great standard. We will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 3 Oct 2024
Hi ThomasgS517Qr, thank you for your kind words and great score! We really appreciate your feedback and will notify the team member mentioned (she is a super-star). Look forward to hosting you on future occasions! Hugest thanks, Hotel VARA Team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed four nights and really enjoyed our visit. The hotel has ample parking (at the front and the rear of the hotel, all signposted) and is a ten minute stroll from the main centre of Truro. Our room was comfortable, with skylight window (the blinds worked well to block out light) kettle, mugs, tea bags, coffee sachet and UHT milk were all provided (there is also a coffee machine available to guests downstairs by the reception desk), bathroom had a shower (word of warning, the shower cubicle is on the small size) and toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap) were given (nice quality also). My only slight issue was the pressure of the shower, as it was on the weak side, but we managed. The hotel serves continental style breakfast (cereals, fruit, croissants, muffins, toast and ham and cheese were offered). There’s also a convenient room available for guests downstairs with plates, cutlery, extra teabags, microwave etc. which you can use if ordering a takeaway to have delivered to the hotel: there were even some menu cards from the local restaurants. The dining room operated a one way system due to the pandemic and the whole building felt adequately equipped for this and safe. Just one comment to add, there are a few stairs to climb to get to the rooms, if someone has severe mobility issues, might be an issue. Also I thought it was a nice touch that there was a little shower available outside to wash dogs, and dog ‘friendly area’ by the car park.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Merchant House, Owner at Hotel VARA
Responded 28 May 2021
Dear Paula245 Thank you for taking the time to submit your review following onto your recent stay with us. Firstly, I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed a comfortable stay with us and found the Hotel to be in a good central location for walking into Truro City and that you made use of our free onsite parking. I am also pleased to hear that you made use of our guest takeaway option, our 24-hour facilities and that you felt safe with the current COVID procedures we have in place. Thank you for bringing to our attention about the water pressure, the pressure here should be fantastic so I will be sure to investigate into this and rectify. As you mentioned the majority of our rooms are up some stairs, however, we do have 4 ground floor rooms available, x2 Singles, x1 Accessible double as well as 1 Large double or twin room for anyone with any mobility issues these rooms all have access with no stairs. I hope to welcome you back again when next visiting Truro. Best Wishes Nicky Whittaker- Owner
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
3 nights = 660€ or 220€ per night for a tiny room at the back of the hotel, (stairs to go up and then back down further) quiet but uncomfortable. Minimalist 60s furniture, small shower and bathroom without hooks for towels.
This hotel at this price does not make the room unless expressly specified daily. On arrival you are made to sign a vague contract which specifies this but which you discover a posteriori like everyone else. Besides, having you sign a “contract” upon your arrival, is this normal? Are we suspicious when everything has been paid for several months?
Breakfast is lousy (I don't have another word) a slice of cheese and a slice of salami, industrial oat flakes in individual bags, a few frozen croissants, enough to make a hard or soft-boiled egg,. .. less than a highway motel.
However, the hotel itself is well located in relation to the city center, accessible on foot in 15 minutes. Very unfortunate that the value for money is zero.
This hotel at this price does not make the room unless expressly specified daily. On arrival you are made to sign a vague contract which specifies this but which you discover a posteriori like everyone else. Besides, having you sign a “contract” upon your arrival, is this normal? Are we suspicious when everything has been paid for several months?
Breakfast is lousy (I don't have another word) a slice of cheese and a slice of salami, industrial oat flakes in individual bags, a few frozen croissants, enough to make a hard or soft-boiled egg,. .. less than a highway motel.
However, the hotel itself is well located in relation to the city center, accessible on foot in 15 minutes. Very unfortunate that the value for money is zero.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
It’s okay, the staff are friendly and helpful. The room was small and in need of renovation ( the sink is cracked and the shower needs to be cleaned of mould). The breakfast offered was continental, perhaps the website should reflect what is on offer. It was absolutely okay and people super helpful.
Overall fine but would not rush back.
Overall fine but would not rush back.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 18 Sept 2024
Hi CJTW, thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback. We have taken your notes on-board. We hope to see you again to beat your current score with us! Our hugest thanks, Hotel VARA Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We have just returned from 1 night stop at this hotel
We have stayed a few times before but that's before the new owners and refurbishment.
First impressions when we walked in was very pleasant.
The new refurbishment downstairs is beautiful and really is a massive plus.
We were greeted by a lovely friendly gentleman who checked us in. Our room was not ready but we were able to leave our cases and they kindly put them into the room when ready.
We didn't arrive back until quite late but was given our keys.
When we arrived back into our room I was at first very happy with the overall look. Some smart new additions in the room. Unfortunately the bathroom was so tiny and dated. I understand the rooms are next to be refurbished. We did feel a little cold in the room as couldn't get the radiator to come on. Also being in the front of hotel did get some traffic noise but we are early risers.
Continental breakfast was included. The breakfast room is a very pleasant space now and table laid up nicely. Self serve breakfast of cereal, home made granola, yogurt and compote. Some croissants ham and cheese. A boiled egg water bath was a good addition. Would have liked to see some bread etc but personal choice.
Coffee was very good and brought to your table with toast.
The hotel has parking behind.
10 mins walk or less to the town so an ideal spot for Truro city centre.
We had a good stay but did feel it had a slightly high tariff for this time of year and for continental breakfast.
Will stay again once the refurb is complete and imagine it will be done to a great standard
We have stayed a few times before but that's before the new owners and refurbishment.
First impressions when we walked in was very pleasant.
The new refurbishment downstairs is beautiful and really is a massive plus.
We were greeted by a lovely friendly gentleman who checked us in. Our room was not ready but we were able to leave our cases and they kindly put them into the room when ready.
We didn't arrive back until quite late but was given our keys.
When we arrived back into our room I was at first very happy with the overall look. Some smart new additions in the room. Unfortunately the bathroom was so tiny and dated. I understand the rooms are next to be refurbished. We did feel a little cold in the room as couldn't get the radiator to come on. Also being in the front of hotel did get some traffic noise but we are early risers.
Continental breakfast was included. The breakfast room is a very pleasant space now and table laid up nicely. Self serve breakfast of cereal, home made granola, yogurt and compote. Some croissants ham and cheese. A boiled egg water bath was a good addition. Would have liked to see some bread etc but personal choice.
Coffee was very good and brought to your table with toast.
The hotel has parking behind.
10 mins walk or less to the town so an ideal spot for Truro city centre.
We had a good stay but did feel it had a slightly high tariff for this time of year and for continental breakfast.
Will stay again once the refurb is complete and imagine it will be done to a great standard
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 31 Oct 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to review Hotel VARA. We continue the refurbishment of the bathrooms this winter and look forward to welcoming you back in the future
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stayed for 2 nights, room was small but clean and tidy. 1 st night ate in and had pizza, they only did pizza but they were very nice would have been happy to have had them in a pizzeria. Breakfast inc cereals toast boiled egg ham cheese tea/ coffee but not full English location was a 10 min walk to town centre. Free parking included. Electric car charging point available. Would stay here again.
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 9 Feb 2023
Hi Peter, thank you for your review. We are glad to hear that our team made you welcome! You have also addressed some interesting points that we will review too. We look forward to seeing you on your next visit, hugest thanks Hotel VARA Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed for one night in one of the smaller doubles overlooking the rear of the hotel. The room was compact, but none the worse for that. The ensuite is likewise small, and the only issue there is that the shower cubicle is quite snug - still fine, but if you're looking for more freedom of movement the larger rooms may be worth the extra. The room was very quiet, nice and cool, and very comfortable.
The rear car park means that there is ample parking, although as it wasn't busy we got one of the half dozen spaces at the front.
The hotel is a short walk from the city centre, but down quite a long steepish hill, so we opted to be lazy and drove - Truro has lots of car parking.
Breakfast was included in our rate, and was a lovely wide range of the usual continental fare, all from a well-supplied buffet.
Friendly staff and a lovely chic interior make this a new favourite in a delightful part of Cornwall.
The rear car park means that there is ample parking, although as it wasn't busy we got one of the half dozen spaces at the front.
The hotel is a short walk from the city centre, but down quite a long steepish hill, so we opted to be lazy and drove - Truro has lots of car parking.
Breakfast was included in our rate, and was a lovely wide range of the usual continental fare, all from a well-supplied buffet.
Friendly staff and a lovely chic interior make this a new favourite in a delightful part of Cornwall.
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 4 Nov 2023
Hello Monoco; thank you for your score and kind words! You have brought up some interesting points which we have taken on-board. We look forward to seeing you again on your next visit! Our hugest thanks, Hotel VARA Team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I really enjoyed my stay at the Merchant House. The single room was clean and big enough. We stayed four nights and the system put in place during the pandemic, made me feel comfortable and well looked after.
Staff were welcoming, friendly and very helpful. They wore masks when serving breakfast and had a great system in place for social distancing.
Rooms aren't cleaned while you're there, but you can make special arrangements if you want a daily service. Rooms are deep cleaned ahead of your arrival.
Facilities were great. A fridge downstairs and a packed breakfast if you're leaving really early, was a great idea.
Breakfasts were brilliant. I highly recommend the sausages.
It's in a good location, the hill isn't very steep, but the U1 bus stops right outside the hotel if you need it. I found the hill great exercise mind.
Sharon, Stewart and the other staff were lovely. Parking was great.
I will be going back, it's lovely and comfortable. A great base for when you're travelling all over Cornwall.
It's less than ten minutes into town from the hotel, there are plenty of great places to eat nearby and it's really quiet in the evenings as well.
Staff were welcoming, friendly and very helpful. They wore masks when serving breakfast and had a great system in place for social distancing.
Rooms aren't cleaned while you're there, but you can make special arrangements if you want a daily service. Rooms are deep cleaned ahead of your arrival.
Facilities were great. A fridge downstairs and a packed breakfast if you're leaving really early, was a great idea.
Breakfasts were brilliant. I highly recommend the sausages.
It's in a good location, the hill isn't very steep, but the U1 bus stops right outside the hotel if you need it. I found the hill great exercise mind.
Sharon, Stewart and the other staff were lovely. Parking was great.
I will be going back, it's lovely and comfortable. A great base for when you're travelling all over Cornwall.
It's less than ten minutes into town from the hotel, there are plenty of great places to eat nearby and it's really quiet in the evenings as well.
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Date of stay: September 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Nicky Manning, Owner at Hotel VARA
Responded 27 Sept 2020
Thank you, Caroline, for your fantastic feedback. I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us and received our traditional friendly and welcoming from Sharon, Stuart and all of the Team, I will be sure to pass on your lovely comments. I am also delighted to hear that you found your room clean and comfortable and that our current COVID procedures made you feel safe during your stay and that you indulged in our freshly cooked breakfast. I am also pleased to hear that you found the Hotel to be in a quiet and ideal location for visiting Truro City and exploring Cornwall. The Team and I look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Best Wishes Nicky Whittaker- Owner
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I recently stayed at Vara during a business trip, and it was a fabulous experience. The location is incredibly convenient for accessing the town, and the overall comfort of the place was top-notch. The staff at Vara played a significant role in making my stay exceptionally welcoming—they were great!
A heartfelt thank you to Vara for providing such a positive and enjoyable accommodation experience. I look forward to returning on my future visits. Highly recommended!
A heartfelt thank you to Vara for providing such a positive and enjoyable accommodation experience. I look forward to returning on my future visits. Highly recommended!
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from James Doran, General Manager at Hotel VARA
Responded 1 Mar 2024
Hi Jade, thank you for the great score and kind words! We look forward to hosting you again on your next visit. Our hugest thanks, Hotel VARA Team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Contact hotel directly
Hi John,
We have a 13 amp charger at the rear of the property next to the Accessibility ramp.
I hope this is helpful.
Nicky
There is an accessible room at the back of the hotel with its own door out to the car park and it's own accessible wet room. I do not work for the hotel but I have stayed in this room.
If you have booked a room only rate, then yes you are able to pay for breakfast during your stay.
You do not need to book, our waitress will charge your room bill each morning accordingly.
Hi,
Yes we have 4 ground floor rooms which are 2 singles, an accessabilty double with wet room and a family room. Give us a call on 01872272450 to discuss rates etc.
Regards,
Nicky Whittaker
Owner
"I had family visiting me from Truro and we laughed about the steep hill to walk to the Vara."Read full review
"Would have loved a full English but it wasn't a game changer the continental breakfast was ample. "Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
S$151 - S$203 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
carlton hotel truro
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Merchant House Hotel
LOCATION
United KingdomEnglandCornwallTruro DistrictTruro
NUMBER OF ROOMS
30
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel VARA
Which popular attractions are close to Hotel VARA?
Nearby attractions include The Celtic Tossers - Axe Throwing (0.6 km), Truro Cathedral (0.9 km), and Enigma Escape Cornwall (0.6 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Hotel VARA?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a lounge.
What food & drink options are available at Hotel VARA?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, a lounge, and complimentary tea during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Hotel VARA?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Cake House, The Snug, and Grounded.
Is Hotel VARA located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.8 km away from the centre of Truro.
Are pets allowed at Hotel VARA?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Are there any historical sites close to Hotel VARA?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Tregothnan (4.3 km).
Is Hotel VARA accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.