The Best Pubs in Cornwall for Cosy Vibes and Good Food

It’s that time of year again; when the days get shorter and the air becomes colder. If you’re anything like me then my favourite place to hang out through the autumn/winter months is in a cosy pub in Cornwall. Here are my tried and tested recommendations for the best pubs in Cornwall.

The Wig and Pen, Truro

If you’re looking for elevated pub food with a fine-dining twist then The Wig and Pen is the one for you. The Head Chef, Scott Williams is also my partner, but I promise I’m not bias! Scott often pairs classic pub dishes with a fine dining approach - such as venison pie, with beautiful slices of venison to go alongside it. If you’re looking for a pub or restaurant in Truro then The Wig and Pen is a great option.

The Rising Sun, Truro

Tucked away on Truro’s medieval route you’ll find the award-winning Rising Sun, one of the cities most-loved dining pub. Serving an array of award-winning dishes, the pub is best known to its loyal, local community for its cosy atmosphere, elegant menu and an outstanding Sunday roast. The lovely owners Tom and Katie Hannon have also recently opened Fitzpatricks, a vibrant Irish Bar in the centre of Truro.

The Pig at Harlyn Bay

The Pig at Harlyn Bay is one of Cornwall’s most historic houses and dates back to the 15th century. The hotel boats still boats many original features and oozes with character and charm. You guys know I love my interiors, and this place is certainly one of the best for that dark, cosy aesthetic.
The Pig Hotel’s 25 Mile Menu means that most ingredients are sourced within 25 miles with the support of local suppliers and The Pig’s very own Kitchen Garden. Andy our tour guide who showed us around the garden was clearly very passionate and committed to harvesting the very best quality of home-grown produce. The garden is enclosed by 3 sides of Cornish slate wall dating back to 1831.
Located on the grounds of The Pig Hotel, The Lobster Shed serves up wood-oven and local charcoal-fired grill, Padstow lobster, fresh crab, meats, BBQ’d vegetables, and daily picked salads. The dining space is covered by a canvas roof, alongside blankets and fires to keep you warm during temperamental Cornish rain showers. Check out my Pig at Harlyn gallery.

harbour house, flushing

Multi award winning, Head Chef @jeffreyrobinson.chef focus on utilising seasonal Cornish produce ensures that the menu at Harbour House Flushing changes often, yet it consistently reflects the true essence of Cornwall and its surroundings. Every dish we sampled during the launch evening struck the perfect balance of bold and subtle flavours, something that I believe is pretty hard to achieve.

Not only was the food on point, but the service was brilliant and the cosy pub ambience evoked a longing for those slow autumnal days spent nestled in the pub, enjoying an array of small plates accompanied by a glass of wine.

45 Queen Street, Penzance

Hidden in an old converted warehouse in the heart of Penzance you’ll find 45 Queen Street. It’s a real trendy, modern space that’s always overflowing with good vibes. Choose from a selection of locally sourced small plates or create your own mezze board for a real treat.

45 queen street in penzance

The Gurnards Head, Zennor

As you drive along the A30 towards the end of Cornwall you’ll come across the famous yellow building. The Gurnards Head, located in St Just is a dining pub with rooms that offers a slower pace of life by the sea. The Gurnards Head really does make you feel like you’re at the end of the world, a million miles away from any problems or worries - escapism at its best.

The Peterville, St Agnes

The Peterville in St Agnes is a real gem. Offering a mix of pub classics and seasonal dishes, The Peterville is a great option if you’re looking for a welcoming, traditional Cornish pub by the sea (10 mins walk.) The Pub also offers outside decking for those that would prefer to embrace the winter air.

Where are your favourite cosy places to relax in Cornwall? Join in on the conversation over on Instagram @frankiethomas.