A History of The Golden Lion Hotel

The Golden Lion Hotel, a landmark building in the heart of St Ives, has a history that is as rich and varied as the town itself. From its humble beginnings as a small inn to its heyday as a bustling coaching establishment, the hotel has witnessed centuries of change and has played a central role in the life of the community.

The story of the Golden Lion begins in the 18th century, when a small inn known as The Red Lion stood on the site. A town survey from 1728 shows a modest establishment, but by 1784, it had been renamed The Golden Lion and was already beginning to grow in size and stature.

It was in the 1830s that the Golden Lion truly came into its own. With the rise of coaching as the primary means of transport, the inn was transformed into the town’s main coaching inn, with stabling for up to 40 horses. The arrival of the railway in St Ives in 1847 marked the beginning of the end for the coaching trade, but the Golden Lion adapted to the changing times, using a horse-drawn omnibus to ferry guests to and from the new station.

In 1853, the hotel underwent a major renovation, with the front of the building being completely rebuilt and the iconic gilded lion statue, which still adorns the hotel today, being installed. This grand new facade was a statement of intent, cementing the Golden Lion’s position as the town’s premier hotel.

Over the years, the hotel has had a number of owners, but perhaps the most famous was the comedian Eric Morecambe. In the latter half of the 20th century, Morecambe owned the hotel, and it is said that he would often entertain guests with impromptu performances. It is a charming image, and one that speaks to the hotel’s long tradition of hospitality and good cheer.

In 2003, the hotel was acquired by local entrepreneurs Michael and Alison Purchas, who set about revitalizing the historic building. They were followed in 2016 by The Coaching Inn Group, who have continued the work of preserving the hotel’s unique heritage while at the same time modernizing its facilities.

Today, the Golden Lion is a thriving hotel, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is a place where the past and the present meet, where the stories of centuries are etched into the very fabric of the building. And, of course, it is a place where you might just encounter a ghost or two.