Probably the best tile shop in Cornwall
Tuesday 4th August, 2026
VISIT Tilewise, on Newham Road, and you’ll most likely be greeted by the friendliest team member you’ll ever encounter. Five-year-old pug-cross Pugsley peers out of the entrance, sits obediently and raises his paw for a shake in the hope of a treat. His manners are impeccable and capable of winning over the hardest of hearts. “I swear a lot of people come just to see him,” says his owner, Tilewise manager Janet Martin. “He’s our head of customer service.”
If you can tear yourself away from the doggy eyes, Janet is the knowledge of all things tiles, with 20 years of experience under her belt (including 14 here at Tilewise). “If people want to browse at leisure, that’s fine – I'm not a pushy saleswoman,” she says. “But it’s just as bad to be ignored, so I make sure people know I’m there if they need me.”
As Janet herself says, you’d be hard pushed not to find what you’re looking for on the well-stocked shelves of Tilewise, from porcelains and ceramics to natural stone, indoor to outdoor, 1.2m square floor tiles in a lush colour best described as “deep sea blue-green" versus the 20mm square mosaic tiles beloved of bathroom walls in myriad colours.
But whatever you’re after, it’s worth picking Janet’s brains to make sure you’re on the right track. Her laser-sharp questions will point you in the right direction. “I try and get an idea of the whole picture, because very often, what people think they’re looking for isn’t what they really need,” she explains.
“Have they got dogs, cats, children? In which case, maybe don’t buy something you’ll struggle to keep clean – you'll be sick of it in six months’ time.”
Budget is another crucial factor. “If you have spent thousands on a new kitchen or bathroom, we can help you finish that look within your price range.”
The Truro branch of Tilewise is one of four across the South West, and the only one in Cornwall. Having also worked across the Tamar, Cornish-born Janet finds her native customers “very practical”, adding: “It’s quite rural here, very different to big city life. You don’t want glossy tiles when your shoes are always covered with mud or sand.”
Tilewise can deliver your purchase but don’t offer fitting services. Instead, they supply everything you need to do it yourself – grouting, adhesive, silicone – and contact details for trusted tradespeople who can do it for you.
Premises in Newham gives the business easy access and plentiful parking. Customers can even leave their vehicles here while they walk the short distance into the city centre, for what Janet mischievously calls a “doughnut fee” - this service is especially popular at Christmas.
Supported by full-time team members Marc and Fraser, and part-time employee Ian, Janet is proud of the service they offer, and reminds customers that Tilewise’s modest exterior belies a comprehensive choice of products at excellent value. “We spend our money on making sure we have a good range of tiles at good prices – that's what’s important.”