Coastal pubs in Cornwall
“Is there a good pub nearby?” is one of the top questions we are asked at Cornish Traditional Cottages. A good pub can often be a deciding factor for which location you choose for your holiday, and with one of the main draws for the county being our coastline, we’ve provided you with a list of our favourite coastal pubs to try when you come on your Cornish escape.
The Old Coastguard
The Old Coastguard is a seaside hotel in the fishing village of Mousehole. Set in a beautiful, lofty position overlooking the sea, they’ve been sure to create a restaurant and bar that do it justice. Bar Humbug at The Old Coastguard is just lovely, and their attention to detail extends to every drink on the menu, as well as the warm, natural wooden décor.
The Rashleigh Inn
This “Inn on the Beach” at Polkerris is in a quite exceptional location with sand, surf, sailing and stunning sea views all somehow rolled together in one location. Polkerris is one of Cornwall’s lesser known havens, and The Rashleigh Inn complements it perfectly with fresh fish, ales and ciders and a balcony overlooking the historic harbour.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is a one of a kind pub. Sat right on Perranporth beach, it serves excellent food and drink, and there’s often live music which attracts many. As the UK’s only bar on the beach, it’s certainly unique – and definitely worth a visit.
Blue Peter Inn
Popular with locals as well as holidaymakers, the Blue Peter Inn is a very traditional, cosy pub with a reputation for live music and a delicious, ever-changing menu. Awarded silver for ‘Pub of the Year’ in the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2017/18, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the picturesque Polperro harbour.
The Port William
With a mile or so of golden sand stretching in front of it, The Port William at Trebarwith Strand enjoys a magnificent location with views out to sea of “Rugged Gull Rock”. The pub itself has a nautical theme, serves fresh local produce and has a fine selection of wines, spirits and real ales.
The Oystercatcher
The Oystercatcher is located in the surf sub-capital of Polzeath, and boasts fantastic outdoor seating and a car park overlooking the surf. It’s the pub of choice for surfers, and is a great spot for some refreshments after a day on the beach, as it serves classic pub food all the family will enjoy.
The Ship, Porthleven
There are at least five Ship Inns’ in Cornwall, and they’re all good! Perhaps there’s something in the name. The Ship in Mousehole should also make the list, with its harbourside position overlooking what is arguably the most beautiful of Cornish ports. But its Porthleven namesake is probably our favourite. Right by the harbour and overlooking one of Cornwall’s most famous surf spots, it’s one of the premier storm watching locations in the UK.
The Seaview Inn
Right in the heart of Falmouth you’ll find The Seaview Inn. Commanding spectacular elevated views of the Fal estuary, you can soak up Falmouth’s maritime atmosphere, watching boats go past whilst you sit and enjoy a pint or glass of wine.
Blue Bar
The Blue Bar is the least traditional drinking place on our list – not quite a typical pub but an exceptional venue in every way. With beer, wine, spirits and hot drinks as well as great food, it delivers the pub service with a modern beach bar vibe right on Porthtowan beach, with stunning views of the cliffs and surf.
Bowgie Inn
This famous pink pub stands above the beautiful surf beach and dunes of Crantock. There’s a large selection of wines, local ales, ciders, spirits and Cornish gin, and is frequented by surfers, locals and tourists alike.
The Mariners
The Mariners pub is located in the famous coastal village of Rock in north Cornwall. It overlooks the beautiful Camel estuary – a hub of watersport activities such as sailing, waterskiing and paddleboarding, which makes great viewing while you sit and enjoy your drink. The Mariners is a Sharp’s brewery pub run by renowned chef Paul Ainsworth, and serves a seasonal menu featuring some of the best Cornish produce, along with locally brewed Sharp’s beers.