The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group, St Ives (Cambridgeshire) ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Market Hill, St Ives (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, PE27 5AL

Close to St Ives Bridge

Great

8.4

9.0

/10

4.0

4.2

Loved by The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group guests

Comfortable beds
Helpful staff
Excellent service
Tasty breakfast

"This was a wonderful trip for us and our very nervous rescue dog, who was treated as a valued visitor."

lynnmml from United Kingdom

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"Great family room. Spacious with great complimentary touches (such as biscuits, nice bottled water, filter coffee bags instead of horrible granules (!) and CHOCOLATE)!"

jacksonhill from United Kingdom

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"Great location in a pretty market town ideal for visiting Cambridge and surrounding areas which was reason for stay."

Nj13655 from United Kingdom

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Dining

The on-site restaurant at The Golden Lion Hotel offers all-day dining with a menu that highlights traditional, seasonal dishes. Guests can savor culinary delights such as the popular Fish & Chips on Fridays, crafted by dedicated chefs. The stylish bar presents an extensive wine list, allowing guests to find the perfect drink to pair with their meals.

Accommodation

The hotel offers a range of individually designed bedrooms, each unique in shape and decor, providing guests a distinctive experience. All rooms include comfortable mattresses and plush linens for a restful night's sleep. Deluxe double bedrooms feature super-king size beds, extra living space, and modern amenities.

Location

The Golden Lion Hotel is located in the historical market town of St Ives, just 15 miles from Cambridge. Nestled along the banks of The Great Ouse river, the hotel provides easy access to notable local attractions, including the iconic 15th-century bridge with its chapel. The area boasts over 150 listed buildings, enriching the visitor experience.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

The Golden Lion Hotel welcomes four-legged companions, allowing guests to dine with their dogs in the bar area. A small charge applies for pets, ensuring their needs are met during the stay. This accommodation encourages guests to explore the surrounding area together.

Events and Specials

The hotel hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including themed evenings such as Elvis Tribute Night. Guests can take advantage of special residential packages during Christmas and New Year, complete with festive dining options. Seasonal menus are thoughtfully prepared for guests, ensuring a rich dining experience.

Highlights

Dining: all-day dining with seasonal menus

Accommodation: unique bedrooms with individual decor

Location: 15 miles from Cambridge

Pet-Friendly: dogs are welcome in designated areas

“This restored coaching inn places you centrally in St Ives, steps from the river and local landmarks. Expect a hearty breakfast and inviting bar, with the option for private dining. I noted that the hotel welcomes pets, making it a practical base for exploring the area.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningBreakfast Brilliance

Breakfast was a highlight, with eggs benedict cooked to perfection and a great full English. The teapot was always full, a perfect way to start the day.

Oliver Smith from United Kingdom

Review on

Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Although there's no on-site parking, the nearby car park is only a five-minute walk and costs just £4 per day. It's very convenient.

Mei Ling from China

Review on

BedroomRestful Nights

The bed was exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a good night's sleep. The room was quiet, spacious and very clean.

Kenji Tanaka from Japan

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Room FeaturesWelcome Touches

The room had filter coffee bags, bottled water, biscuits and chocolate! A welcome pack was waiting on arrival, a really nice touch.

Isabelle Dubois from France

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Select your room type

The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Classic Double Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Classic Twin Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Classic Single Room

2 persons

110 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Double Room

2 persons

140 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.6/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Golden Lion Hotel, dining is transformed into a delightful experience, where British, International, and European flavors meet. The warm and modern atmosphere welcomes families and friends to indulge in a wide range of meal types, catering to every dietary need in a relaxed setting.

The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group Restaurant photo

The Golden Lion Eatery & Coffee House

British, International, European

Ambiance

Family-friendly and modern, perfect for casual gatherings or delightful family meals.

Key Offerings

Relish a diverse menu packed with traditional treats, showcasing vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Guests can experience the elegance of a Champagne Afternoon Tea for two, alongside an opulent wine list offering tastes from around the world.

Reservation

Recommended

Lunch: Mon-Sun 12:00-14:30, Dinner: Mon-Thurs 17:00-21:30, Fri-Sat 17:00-20:30, Sun 12:00-19:00, High Tea available.

The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group Location

Market Hill, St Ives (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, PE27 5AL

Map view

Market Hill, St Ives (Cambridgeshire), United Kingdom, PE27 5AL

City landmarks

Landmark

Holt Island Nature Reserve

2300 ft

Landmark

The Manor

1.5 mi

Landmark

St Ives Lakes Fishery

3100 ft

Church

St. James' Church

1.4 mi

Landmark

Houghton Mill

2.1 mi

Landmark

National Trust

2.1 mi

Landmark

RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes

1.9 mi

Landmark

Ferry Lagoon

2.2 mi

Nature reserve

The Hanson-RSPB Wetland Project Ouse Fen Nature Reserve

2.3 mi

Landmark

Far Fen Lake

2.4 mi

Landmark

Swavesey Windmill

2.9 mi

Farm

Johnsons Farm Old Hurst

3.9 mi

Landmark

Island Hall

4.3 mi

Nearby

Museum

The Norris Museum

1300 ft

Bridge

St Ives Bridge

700 ft

6-7 The Pavement

Statue of Oliver Cromwell

100 ft

Church

All Saints Parish Church

2000 ft

The Broadway

Queen Victoria's Jubilee Memorial

1000 ft

17 Market Hill

St Ives World War Memorial

1900 ft

Restaurants

The Golden Lion Hotel Restaurant

100 ft

Market Hill

White Hart

300 ft

Sheep Market

Pr Masala

300 ft

1 Wellington Street

Amore

600 ft

4 The Quay

The Oliver Cromwell

600 ft

Wellington Street

Di Rita's Italian Cuisine

500 ft

21 Bridge Street

Cherry Valley Chinese Restaurant

600 ft

24 Bridge Street

Welcome Chinese Restaurant

700 ft

2 & 4 East Street

Zzohanna Indian Cuisine

700 ft

8 Manor Mews

River Terrace Cafe

700 ft

1 & 2 Manor Mews Bridge Street

Explore St Ives (Cambridgeshire)

Experience St Ives

Holt Island Nature Reserve

9 minutes' walk

A scenic natural reserve featuring wildlife and walking paths, ideal for a peaceful retreat in nature.

The Norris Museum

5 minutes' walk

Showcasing local history and culture, this museum hosts engaging exhibits and events throughout the year.

St Ives Bridge

3 minutes' walk

A historic bridge offering picturesque views of the River Great Ouse, perfect for photography and leisurely strolls.

St. James' Church

25 minutes' walk

A beautiful 15th-century church featuring stunning architecture and tranquil gardens, often hosting community events.

St Ives Lakes Fishery

10 minutes' walk

A tranquil fishing spot offering rentals and lessons, perfect for anglers and those seeking a relaxing day outdoors.

Inflatabounce

3.5 km, 5 minutes' drive

An exciting inflatable play area for families, featuring a variety of structures for both kids and adults to enjoy.

The Golden Lion Hotel Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Offering a diverse menu with local ingredients, this restaurant creates a welcoming atmosphere for all dining occasions.

White Hart

1 minute' walk

A cozy pub with a traditional setting, serving classic dishes and local ales, perfect for a casual meal.

Statue of Oliver Cromwell

1 minute' walk

A notable landmark perfect for quick visits; this statue captures the history of the area and is popular for photos.

The Oliver Cromwell

3 minutes' walk

A vibrant pub offering live music events and a lively atmosphere, great for enjoying a night out with friends.

Getting around

City Centre

St Ives (Cambridgeshire)12 min · 3300 ft

Airports

Cambridge (CBG)43 min · 17.5 mi

London Stansted (STN)101 min · 41.5 mi

Bus

Bus stop3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP13 per person per day.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Former name

the golden lion hotel, st ives, cambridgeshire - part of the coaching inn group

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Golden Lion Hotel enjoys a great location in the town center, steps away from the river and bridge, making it ideal for exploring St Ives. Guests appreciate the well-equipped, recently renovated rooms and find the breakfast tasty with good portion sizes. While some guests have noted small rooms or occasional noise from the kitchen extractor, others have found the comfortable beds and amenities like the over-bath shower to be a plus.

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Review score

Based on 735 verified reviews

8.3/10

Great

85%

Recommend

Location

9.3/10

Staff

9.2/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.2/10

Facilities

8.6/10

Pros

Quality food

Comfy bed

Spacious bathroom

Awesome staff

Excellent location

Cons

Breakfast price

Unclean room

Car park entrance

based on 599 reviews

4.5/5

Chris from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Twin Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed:December 24, 2025

6/10

a mixed experience

extractor fan noisecold food

the extractor fan noise was a real issue. it ran late into the night and started up again early in the morning , i did not sleep well. the noise definitely impacted my stay , and i found this very frustrating. i also thought the breakfast was lacking , the food was cold , once.

0 Helpful

Dominic from United Kingdom

Single

Superior Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 07, 2025

9/10

solid stay in central location

ample spacecomfortable bedhelpful staff

The superior double room had ample space and a comfortable bed. its placement near the river was very useful. the staff was helpful. They quickly addressed any need I had.

0 Helpful

Scarlett from United Kingdom

Single

classic double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 01, 2025

7/10

simple parkingfriendly staffquality foodoutside scaffoldingunsanitary toilethotel refurbishing

the parking was simple just across the road plus i could register using the app for the next day the staff were friendly plus very helpful it was good i rebooked two weeks later the breakfast offered quality food that i enjoyed

the hotel was doing work outside scaffolding was up when i got there i went to my room a painter was outside painting he was looking into my room the bathroom was disgusting also the toilet was unsanitary the hotel needs some refurbishing i was let down

0 Helpful

Harry from United Kingdom

Single

Classic Double Room

1 night in November 2025

Reviewed:November 28, 2025

9.0/10

Fantastic stay, was really good!

functional roomspacious showerconvenient check-outgood entrance

I stayed for a night and found the room very functional. The bathroom featured a clean, spacious over-bath shower, something I appreciated. A good out-of-hours entrance and exit helped a lot. It was easy to come and go! I found the 11am check-out very convenient, awesome for a relaxed morning.

I think my room was located above the bar or restaurant area. I could hear a constant door slamming late at night, disrupting my sleep. people were speaking loudly until almost 1am.

Rooms

9/10

My room featured a large, very comfortable bed that really stood out. the room was very clean and quite well presented. I noticed that the hotel provided a good, hot shower, and .

Service

10/10

The staff proved friendly and helpful, which I appreciated. When I wanted help with my suitcases, they helped me without hesitation. the location is ideal. The staff kept me supplied with bottled water.

Dining

8/10

Breakfast is complete and varied. The restaurant ambience had a good menu. I really enjoyed it. I had not eaten all day so was needing nourishment and a comfortable night's sleep. The food in the restaurant was superb!

0 Helpful

Arthur from United Kingdom

Single

classic double room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed:November 16, 2025

7/10

convenient locationgreat breakfastspacious bathroomkitchen extractconstant noisenight vibrations

the location was quite convenient. the breakfast was great (especially the sausages!). the room included a spacious bathroom.

the room i stayed in was next to the kitchen extract. there was a fan running all night which was very disturbing. the vibrations were also noticeable.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About The Golden Lion Hotel, St Ives, Cambridgeshire - The Coaching Inn Group

Where is the best place to park if planning to stay at The Golden Lion Hotel?

12 March 2024

Public car parks are available nearby, with the recommended option being the Cattle Market car park, approximately 5 minutes away on foot. It's conveniently located next to the bus station and Waitrose supermarket.

Is there parking available for Blue Badge holders?

15 April 2024

Yes, there is designated disabled parking for Blue Badge holders available just outside the front of the hotel.

What options are available for breakfast during a stay?

20 May 2024

Rates typically include room only. Guests can choose to order breakfast at the hotel for an additional charge.

Is there a secure place to store bicycles?

22 June 2024

Yes, a secure room is available for bike storage, ensuring it remains safe during your stay.

Are dogs allowed at The Golden Lion Hotel?

30 August 2024

Yes, dogs are welcome in designated classic rooms for an additional fee of £10 per stay. It's a pet-friendly hotel overall.

Can young adults book a room without an adult present?

12 September 2024

Booking is limited to individuals aged 18 and over unless they are accompanied by an adult.

What public transport options are available to reach Cambridge?

14 October 2024

A convenient 'Guided Bus' service operates nearby, providing a direct route to the center of Cambridge in about 40 minutes. The bus stop is just a short walk from the hotel.

Are there facilities for storing ice packs during a stay?

17 November 2024

Yes, the hotel has freezer space available for guests needing to store ice packs.

Is there a restaurant on-site, and what are the breakfast serving hours?

25 December 2024

Yes, the hotel features a restaurant offering breakfast services. Breakfast is served from 7 AM to 9 AM on weekdays, and from 8 AM to 10 AM on weekends.

What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Golden Lion Hotel?

10 January 2025

Check-in is available from 3 PM, while check-out is typically required by 11 AM.