The Best Pubs in Cornwall? More Like the Best Pints in Cornwall
If you think Cornwall is just about pasties, cliffs, and the occasional seagull robbing your chips, you’re not wrong—but it’s also got pubs so good they’ll make you forget your ex’s name. Welcome to a world where beer floweth like water, and the locals don’t take their IPAs lightly. This guide is for the liquid intel agents who want to know: where to find the best pubs in Cornwall without getting lost in a maze of crabs and Cornish pasties.
Quick disclaimer: This isn’t your uncle’s pub crawl. We’re talking about places where the beer is so good, you’ll question why you ever drank from a can. And yes, we’ve included DIY beer tips for when you’re ready to stop drinking and start brewing. But first, let’s get you to the pubs that’ll make your taste buds scream “I survived this!?”
Pubs Worth the Trip (and Your First Pint)
Cornwall’s pubs are like humans: some are charming, some are weird, and a few sell their souls to the ale gods. Here are the ones that deserve a spot on your itinerary:
1. The Camel (St. Ives)
Not the animal, the pub. Located 23 The Paddocks, St Ives, TR26 1LE, this place is a relic of the 1800s and serves pints so cold, you’ll think you’re in the Arctic. Bonus: They’ve got a custom beer section that’s basically a PhD thesis in flavors. Pro tip: Ask for the “Cornish Pale Ale” and pretend you know what a “pale” is.
2. The Ship Inn (St. Agnes)
Imagine a pub that’s been abandoned by time. Now imagine it’s got the best seafood chowder in the UK. The Ship Inn, St Agnes, TR2 4LH, is that pub. Their beer menu is a love letter to local craft breweries, and the staff will judge you if you don’t ask about the “Cornish Cloud” (it’s a hazy IPA, and it’s terrifyingly good). Want to open a pub like this? Start by not drinking on the job.
3. The Tinner’s Arms (Penzance)
Located at Market Place, Penzance, TR18 1AQ, this pub is like a pirate ship if the pirates were into meditation and craft beer. Their “Tinners Ale” is so smooth, it’ll make your ex’s apology feel like a rough day. Don’t miss the live music nights—unless you’re allergic to bad karaoke.
Pro Tips for Pub Hopping Like a Local
Let’s be real: You’re not here for the history. You’re here for the beer. But here’s how to maximize your pub crawl without ending up in a ditch:
- Bring a map app: Cornwall’s pubs are like ghosts—easy to miss if you’re not looking in the right spot.
- Sample at least three different ales: It’s not a pub crawl if you only drink one beer. Two is cheating. Three is science.
- Ask the locals: They’ll either tell you the best spot or give you a side-eye and say “You’re not from round here, are you?”
- Don’t drive: Unless you want to find out how seagulls feel about your driving.
Need a break from the pub scene? Check out our guide to making your own beer at home. It’s cheaper and you won’t get stared at like you’re from London.
FAQs: Because You’re Probably Still Confused
1. Is there a pub in Cornwall that serves coffee?
Yes. Every pub. But don’t tell the beer. It’ll start a cold war and you’ll lose access to the real ales.
2. Should I tip the bar staff?
If you want to live. They’ll judge you for leaving £1, but they’ll pretend not to.
3. Where can I sell my homemade beer?
Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer—it’s like Tinder for breweries. Just don’t ghost your customers.
Final Cheers and Call to Action
So there you have it: the best pubs in Cornwall, curated by someone who’s definitely had too many pints and still thinks “real ale” is just a type of wine. Whether you’re here for the beer, the views, or the chance to say “I once got kicked out of a Cornish pub” (we won’t judge), make sure to reach out if you want to start your own pub or custom beer brand. And if you’re into this kind of thing, subscribe to our newsletter for more guides that’ll make your taste buds weep with joy (or sadness, depending on what you’re drinking).
Now go forth, drink responsibly, and remember: Cornwall’s pubs are like a bad breakup—once you’ve had one, you’ll never go back to the same old can of lager again.
