In Cornwall we are spoilt for choice when it comes to pubs, offering anything from beer gardens with stellar ocean views to cosy open fires to warm yourself after a blustery walk on the coast path. Here are ten of our favourites… some are well known, others are rare finds…
1- Gurnards Head — Zennor
Part of a trio of ‘Eat, Drink, Sleep’ pubs, the Gurnard’s Head sits amidst of miles of wild coastline in the far west of Cornwall, near St Ives. A few minutes walk from the coastal path means that this is the perfect place for a break from a coast-path walk at any time of year. They serve up an extraordinarily lovely menu which varies daily… not to mention a very fine and expertly selected wine list.
2- The Lamp and Whistle — Penzance
This little gem of a pub has a spectacularly grumpy landlord – but an equally memorable stock list. You’ll find spirits and ales from around the world including many that you’ll never have read of. It’s truly unique and very quirky.
3- The Pandora Inn — Falmouth
Sitting in a beautiful location on the banks of the Restronguet creek, this low-beamed and thatched pub has parts dating back to the 13th century. It serves quality food and has a great jetty seating area outside, meaning that you can even arrive stylishly by boat!
4- Old Custom House — Padstow
This is a sophisticated inn that overlooks the Padstow Harbour in the middle of the town. The pub serves award-winning St Austell ales and serves Cornish ingredients in a stylish and upmarket way.
5- The Bowgie Inn — Newquay
Panoramic sea views across the bay over Crantock beach (near Newquay), this pub is in a truly stunning location and holds regular music and themed evenings and offers food from 12pm until late. They also host a beer festival every year, please see website link for more details.
6- The Sloop — St Ives
Traditional, harbourside and characterful, the sloop is the perfect place for summer beers on the patio or finding a cosy spot in one of the many booths by the fire in the winter. This pub is popular and friendly and has a varied selection of beers.
7- The Shipwright’s Arms — Helford
Hosting regular events throughout the summer months including the Helford regatta. The Shipwrights Arms is in a stunning riverside location and has a delightful outside space. A must-see stop on any day trip or walk to the Helford.
8- The Tolcarne Inn — Newlyn
Owned and run by award-winning Michelin-starred chef Ben Tunicliffe, this pub offers fantastic food at affordable prices. With the Newlyn fish market very close and the selection of local produce on offer in the area, mean the delicious food served here has minimal food miles. A cute pub, open seven days a week and with live jazz every Sunday between 1-3pm.
9- The Trengilly Wartha Inn — Constantine
Having won many awards for its food, the inn is no doubt up there with the best traditional pubs in Cornwall. Serving locally sourced food and mastering the right mix of local ales and a great atmosphere, this is a treasure not to be missed.
10- The Ferryboat (featured)— Helford Passage
Ideally located on the Helford river this traditional pub suits all, it has a delicious and varied menu offering the best Cornish seafood as well as the classic dishes, is family-friendly and opposite a delightful beach.
