A place where the past meets great hospitality
In the heart of charming St Ives, the Golden Lion stands proud, a coaching inn turned contemporary haven. Its historic walls now house stylish rooms, a cosy bar, and hearty fare that nods to British tradition while embracing the modern traveller. Its Georgian façade hides a space where centuries of stories linger beneath the beams. It’s warm, welcoming, and quietly full of character, just the kind of place that makes you want to linger with a pint and watch the town go by.
A Classic Collection Hotel
THE COACHING INN GROUP NAMED WHICH? HOTEL GROUP OF THE YEAR
We’re proud to share that The Coaching Inn Group has been named Hotel Group of the Year in the large hotel chains category by consumer champion Which? - a major milestone for our business and a powerful endorsement of our strategic focus on accommodation.
This recognition reflects the dedication and passion of our teams across the country, who deliver hospitality from the heart - creating characterful stays and memorable experiences in some of the UK’s most historic market towns.
Experience The Difference
A stay in our Classic Collection hotels offers a comfortable and welcoming experience. Thoughtful touches and a friendly atmosphere mean you’ll feel right at home, and maybe not want to leave.
Stay & Explore
Classic bedrooms are designed for comfort and function with the added touches that make the difference and leave you with a lasting impression. Choose from our selection to suit all and just relax and unwind.
Food & Drink
Menus are inspired by Modern British food, with many ingredients and produce sourced locally. A unique character shows through from our chefs in dishes, so all that remains is for you to come and try our food and carefully chosen drinks.
Meetings & Gatherings
These should be firmly established in the calendar. Business or pleasure, our spaces and cosy corners are characterful & varied. Turning the wheels of industry or planning a get together contact us today.
A Magical Christmas Awaits
Christmas arrives with a twinkle and a glass raised in cheer. From the scents of mulled wine, open fires and festive feasts served crafted with care, every detail is wrapped in genuine warmth and flair. Whether staying overnight or just popping in for one of our many celebrations, expect good, tasty food, great company, and that unmistakable glow of a Christmas well spent.
Meet The Dream Team
Simply divine, you'll find our team charming, attentive and fabulous, making your visit just splendid from start to finish.
Inn Room Features To Make You Smile
Classic Rooms offer tranquillity with premium linens, soft pillows and comfortable mattresses. All rooms offer high-speed wifi, H2K of Harrogate botanicals, hairdryer, smart TV, premium teas and coffee with biscuits in the room.
Classic Rooms - It's All in the Detail
Classic Rooms offer tranquillity with premium linens, soft pillows and comfortable mattresses, combining to create a haven you won’t want to leave.
Deluxe Suite
You won't want to leave our luxury stay option, a refuge in the midst of your adventure and our largest room with seating area, little extras and a place you wont want to leave.
Deluxe Double Room
A little bit of style, a little bit of luxury. The noticeable extras and size make it worth the spoil.
Superior Double Room
A mid class of room with double bed and no shortage of space or style will leave you with a lasting impression.
Superior Family Triple Room
Our mid class family triple for 2 adults and 1 child. A perfect hub for families to relax and unwind whilst exploring the the superb location just outside your door.
Classic Double Room
Our value standard room, four walls, a bed, and a whole lot of style. The perfect match for short trips will leave you wanting more.
Classic Twin Room
Our value standard room, four walls, a bed, and a whole lot of style. The perfect match for short trips will leave you wanting more. This room type can be booked as double bed or twin beds.
Classic Single Room
Not quite a broom cupboard but a cosy room with a single bed and all the amenities, thats all you need!
A Taste of Tradition
Menus are inspired by Modern British food and drink, with many ingredients and produce sourced locally. A unique character shows through from our chefs in dishes, so all that remains is for you to come and try our food.
BFFs with Fur, They’re Inn
Imagine a place where wet noses and wagging tails are cherished. Welcomed with treats and a comfy bed and treated like rockstars in dining venues. You'll find this in our classic hotels along with woodland walks, gourmet doggy meals and new friends. For Doggie specific tables or rooms please call us directly or leave a comment on your reservation.
Photo Album
The Golden Lion St Ives
A Fascinating History
Built in the 1700s, the Golden Lion served stagecoach travellers in St Ives and still stands proudly as a hub of heritage and hospitality.
A St Ives Landmark
St Ives in Cambridgeshire is a riverside market town with medieval roots, Georgian charm and a graceful 15th-century bridge chapel.
The Inn People
Wherever you stay with us you'll find our wonderful and extraordinary people. A family-oriented culture translates into a heartfelt welcome for all who pass through our doors.
Upcoming Events
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Upcoming
Jan 31, 2026 8:00 PMLive Music: Si Dartford
Si Dartford | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Feb 14, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Kara Lumley
Kara Lumley | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Feb 28, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Christian Smith
Christian Smith | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Mar 14, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Charlie & Rehanna
Charlie and Rehanna | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Mar 27, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Graham Buxton
Graham Buxton | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Apr 11, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Pianoman
Pianoman | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Apr 24, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Si Dartford
Si Dartford | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
May 16, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Christian Smith
Christian Smith | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Jun 6, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Graham Buxton
6th Graham Buxton | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
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Upcoming
Jun 19, 2026 8:00 PM
Live Music: Charlie & Rehanna
19th Charlie and Rehanna | Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music right here at The Golden Lion!
Showing 10 events from Golden Lion - St Ives
Grand Gardens & Secret Courtyards
From sweeping lawns dressed in blooms to secluded courtyards whispering with history, each inn’s outdoor tells its own little story. Some unfold in grand, green gestures made for gentle wandering, others offer pockets of intimate charm yet all have wonderfully placed seating just for you. Experience the joy of al fresco dining or drinking something wonderful beneath the open skies, every bite, every sip, made more delicious by the breeze and the beauty around you.
It’s Unique, Here's Our Story
Founded in 1996 by Kevin Charity, the Coaching Inn Group began as a family-run business with a big ambition to breathe new life into Britain’s historic inns and hotels.
From its roots in Boston, Lincolnshire, the Group now operates 35 unique properties across the UK. Each one is carefully restored to celebrate its heritage, think oak beams, sash windows, and centuries-old charm, while offering all the modern comforts today’s travellers expect.
At its heart lies the Group’s enduring ethos: “Hospitality from the Heart.” More than a phrase, it reflects a genuine commitment to people, teams treated as family, communities as partners, and guests as old friends. Recognition followed: winner of UK’s Best Accommodation Operator at the 2025 Publican Awards, WHICH? Best Small Hotel Group 2024/25, Best Large Hotel Group 2025/26 and ranked among the Top UK Employers. In essence, the Coaching Inn Group invites you on a journey where tradition, warmth, and thoughtful hospitality never go out of style.
We’d love to welcome you to a stay that blends history, warmth and genuine care every time.
From Boston
with love, Adam Charity
Since 1996, we’ve brought together a collection of charming inns and hotels in some of the UK’s best-loved spots, from cosy villages to lively market towns and beautiful national parks. Our mission is simple: to keep the magic alive, support our amazing teams, and look after these special places for future generations.
Marking Milestones
Celebrations
Your celebrations deserve more than candles and cake; they deserve style, sparkle and a setting that says, “You've arrived, so let's celebrate.”
A Life Celebrated
Come celebrate a life beautifully lived, shared in style with grace and warmth and bespoke to you and your family's needs.
Exclusive offers
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Current
Dine & Unwind
Indulge and enjoy with our Dine & Unwind package. With 2 nights bed and breakfast stay, you can kick back and relax. To get the most of your time with us, we've included a 3-course dinner on your first evening, perfect for setting you up for a day of exploring the area. What's included: 2-nights bed and breakfast stay 3-course dinner on the night you arrive. *supplements may apply on selected food items Terms & Conditions: Full payment is taken at the time of booking. Bookings are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be amended. All offers are subject to availability, and supplements may apply -
Current
Winter Escapes – 1 Night
Escape the cold and embrace the warmth of luxury with our Winter Escape offer. Our hotel offers the perfect retreat from the chilly weather. The longer you stay, the more exclusive benefits you can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, you'll have an unforgettable winter getaway. Book our Winter Escapes package and you'll get: One, two or three nights accommodation in our award-winning rooms A full-cooked breakfast of your choice to start your day right Stay one night; Delicious 2-Course meal and a bottle of house wine Stay two nights; As above, plus a Cream Tea for two Stay three nights; All of the above, plus a free upgrade to a Superior/Deluxe room where applicable So what are you waiting for? Book your Winter Escape today! Terms & Conditions: Full payment is taken at the time of booking. Bookings are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be amended. All offers are subject to availability, and supplements may apply -
Current
Winter Escapes – 2 Nights
Escape the cold and embrace the warmth of luxury with our Winter Escape offer. Our hotel offers the perfect retreat from the chilly weather. The longer you stay, the more exclusive benefits you can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, you'll have an unforgettable winter getaway. Book our Winter Escapes package and you'll get: One, two or three nights accommodation in our award-winning rooms A full-cooked breakfast of your choice to start your day right Stay one night; Delicious 2-Course meal and a bottle of house wine Stay two nights; As above, plus a Cream Tea for two Stay three nights; All of the above, plus a free upgrade to a Superior/Deluxe room where applicable So what are you waiting for? Book your Winter Escape today! Terms & Conditions: Full payment is taken at the time of booking. Bookings are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be amended. All offers are subject to availability, and supplements may apply -
Current
Winter Escapes – 3 Nights
Escape the cold and embrace the warmth of luxury with our Winter Escape offer. Our hotel offers the perfect retreat from the chilly weather. The longer you stay, the more exclusive benefits you can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, you'll have an unforgettable winter getaway. Book our Winter Escapes package and you'll get: One, two or three nights accommodation in our award-winning rooms A full-cooked breakfast of your choice to start your day right Stay one night; Delicious 2-Course meal and a bottle of house wine Stay two nights; As above, plus a Cream Tea for two Stay three nights; All of the above, plus a free upgrade to a Superior/Deluxe room where applicable So what are you waiting for? Book your Winter Escape today! Terms & Conditions: Full payment is taken at the time of booking. Bookings are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be amended. All offers are subject to availability, and supplements may apply
Showing 4 promotions from Golden Lion - St Ives
Saying “I do” at
The Golden Lion
Weddings at The Golden Lion are laid back and full of charm, with good food, friendly faces and cosy settings that feel just so. Whether you're after something simple or a bit of a knees up, we will help you celebrate your way
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Local Attractions
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A historic Bridge & Chapel
This iconic 15th-century bridge spans the River Great Ouse and is unique for having a chapel built on it, one of only a few in England. You can walk across the bridge and enjoy the river views. The chapel is occasionally open to the public. -
Experience a working watermill
Operated by the National Trust, Houghton Mill is the oldest working watermill on the River Great Ouse. You can experience the sounds and atmosphere of a traditional working mill and even try making flour. The surrounding Waterclose Meadows offer beautiful riverside walks. -
Holt Island Nature Reserve
A tranquil oasis located a short walk from the town centre, Holt Island Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. This small island in the River Great Ouse is home to a variety of birds, butterflies, and plant life, with boardwalk trails that make it easy to explore. It's generally open on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays between April and October. -
The history of St Ives
This small but fascinating museum tells the story of St Ives and the surrounding area, from prehistoric times to the present day. It's a great spot for history enthusiasts, with exhibits ranging from Roman artifacts to displays about Oliver Cromwell. It also has a peaceful riverside garden.
Showing 4 local attractions near Golden Lion - St Ives
The Burning Questions!
Check-in is guaranteed from 03.00pm and Check-out is 11.00am.
No, on-street parking is available close by.
No.
Yes, we are at the centre of town.
Yes.
This depends on the room terms booked; we offer room and breakfast and room only.
No.
Buy Gifts
The Art of Giving can be experienced with our gift vouchers and cards.
Contact & Location
You can find us here, or if you prefer, please contact us for directions.
Inn The Know
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