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Meet The Alverton’s General Manager, Paul

Making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, The Alverton's General Manager Paul Ricketts has had his finger firmly on the pulse of our historic hotel through thick and thin. In a conversation with the man himself, we got a glimpse into what it's like to run a luxury Cornish hotel.

Tell me about how you became The Alverton's General Manager?

I was managing our beautiful cousin hotel, The Penventon, when the directors bought The Alverton back in 2013. I was asked if I would consider managing this former Georgian mansion and as soon as I stepped foot through the front door, I knew it was the right place for me. The architecture is truly mesmerising, and it’s a wonderful place to come to work everyday.

What can a first-time guest expect to experience when they arrive at The Alverton?

There’s a real sense of grandeur when you arrive at The Alverton, and the story of its unique history is told in the very walls, inviting you to explore and discover its secrets. At the same time, there’s a very friendly atmosphere here, and we’re often complimented on the fantastic service our staff provide each and every guest.

Tell me about your favourite part of working at this historic hotel.

I still get excited by the “WOW” almost everyone says when they enter our Great Hall for the first time. Originally a convent, this incredible structure was built by the same architects who developed Truro Cathedral, and it’s one of the things that make The Alverton so wonderfully unique.

Also, when a bride tells us that they have had the perfect wedding day, it makes it all worthwhile for me. 

What do you think The Alverton offers when it comes to an unforgettable stay here in Cornwall?

It makes for the perfect luxury retreat from which to explore our beautiful county. With easy access to the trainline, it’s so easy to access the rest of Cornwall from Truro, so whether you’re looking to explore city, coast, woodland or countryside, it’s all available to you from here.

What’s more, we’ve got every detail covered. With our restaurant serving mouth-watering food morning, noon and night, alongside the option of room service and extra little touches along the way, you may find that you won’t even want to leave the hotel!

Do you have a favourite place in the hotel, inside or out?

My favourite room is room 43 in our Courtyard. I love that there is a large seating area and a bath in the bedroom. I was the first person to stay in that room in 2016 and I even spent my wedding night there many years later.

My other favourite place is the kitchen – if you have ever eaten here, you will understand why.

Have you had any of your own memorable Alverton experiences?

Watching our amazing team jump into action when Truro had a complete power cut. Everyone’s focus automatically turned to how we would not let this spoil the wedding we were running when this happened.

And, of course, meeting my wife here and our gorgeous wedding day. Those are the only memories that top the rest (phew, glad I remembered to add that).

Tell me about some of the things you spend your time doing when you’re not running the hotel.

Holidays and walks. My wife and I try to get on a plane as much as possible. We aim to visit at least one different country each year.

When we’re at home we’ll walk for hours, normally looking for the perfect bakery.

Do you have a favourite place in Cornwall?

I could name any of the stunning beaches or breathtaking coastal walks – each one has something different to offer depending on the season. Watching the dolphins play or visiting the seal beach have always been particular favourites of mine.

How would you describe Cornwall in three words?

Beautiful, breathtaking and luckily, home.

Discover more

The Courtyard

Arched doorways, original flagstone flooring and exposed brickwork complement bespoke furnishings using the finest materials from some of the world's top designer brands. Set a short distance from the main hotel and surrounded by blissful birdsong, The Courtyard promises the ultimate laid-back luxury.

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Weddings

Nestled away from the Cornish capital, discover a dreamy venue that radiates elegance, tranquillity and romance.

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