The Atlantic Hotel is steeped in beautiful history, and it remains to this day something we are proud to have just as much as the stunning location the hotel is blessed with.
After encountering the incredible 10-acre plot on the lush headland overlooking Newquay, the Atlantic Hotel’s founders set about designing a luxurious hotel that would match the breathtaking location, where every single room could marvel in the sweeping views of the Atlantic. Marble floors, chandeliers, and the now-iconic sweeping staircase accompanied the grand views, and the hotel quickly built a reputation for opulence and luxury.
The hotel has always been an integral part of the Newquay community. During the First World War, the hotel opened its doors as a hospital, helping injured soldiers back on the road to recovery. And when a new ballroom was built in the 1930s, more than 400 guests attended the grand opening in aid of the Royal Cornwall Infirmary.
Harrods of London were famously brought in to design and furnish the cocktail lounge in 1935 ensuring that guests were able to relax in the most stylish, chic surrounds.
The Atlantic Hotel played host to The Beatles for 3 nights during the filming of The Magical Mystery Tour, in September 1967. Their stay was part of the iconic Magical Mystery Tour movie, based on a mystery tour around Britain. It was September 1967, and a few months earlier The Beatles had released their iconic Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album, considered by many to be the greatest of all time. The hotel was rushed by hundreds of fans as they made their way to the main building for meals.
The Atlantic was hit by “Beatlemania” with thousands of fans desperate for a glimpse of their idols. A very lucky few holidaymakers and locals even got a chance to star in the movie, with several locations in and around the hotel featuring in the movie. In The Complete Beatles Chronicle, author Mark Lewisohn noted that the band originally intended to stop in Newquay for only one night. He wrote: “After considerable private discussion, in which they weighed up the merits of either moving on to a new hotel each day or staying put in one location and using it as a base, they opted for the latter alternative and decided to remain at the Atlantic for three nights: Tuesday to Thursday.” Today visitors to the hotel can retrace steps taken by the famous four in and around the hotel.
In 1986 the current owners, the Cobley family took over the hotel and began a sympathetic refurbishment to update the hotel, eager to maintain the grandeur and history of this beautiful Victorian building whilst fusing a few modern additions to the hotel.
Luxury four-star standards were maintained and improved on, an extension and spacious Balcony Suites were added, and the addition of now AA Rosette Restaurant Silks Bistro & Champagne Bar, indoor leisure, spa, and treatment room (all looking out to sea of course!)
The Atlantic has played host to many celebrities over the years, including Frank Bruno, Roger Daltrey, Fred Sirieux (from First Dates!), and many, many more celebrities who may not wish to be named. We’ve also been featured in the hit ITV show Doc Martin.
Since the hotel opened more than 125 years ago, there have been numerous additions and improvements, but throughout, our resolve to ensure our guests receive a personal and unique experience has never wavered.
So when you are next in the area, do come and see us, walk in the footsteps of the Beatles and discover the magic within our grand walls.
