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Overview

Visible for miles with its yellow-ochre walls, this iconic inn near Zennor is a real beacon on the wild Cornish coast. For 20 years it has been a 'must-visit' destination, a cracking pub with rooms created by Charles and Edmund Inkin and one that sets the standard for relaxed, convivial hospitality. 'Eat, Drink, Sleep' is the inn's mantra and it certainly lives up to its promise.

Dating back to the 17th century, the old coaching inn stands on the windswept coastal road that runs between St Ives and Land's End on the rugged West Penwith peninsula. Inside, log fires, stone floors, brass lanterns and lots of local artwork create a relaxed and convivial vibe in the bar, while the kitchen champions seasonal Cornish produce. The food is backed by a fine stock of locally brewed ales, unusual spirits and well-chosen wines.

With an abundance of wild flowers, the garden has a romantic feel with great views over the rugged Cornish coast from the pergola and lawned areas, which are handily laid out with wooden tables and chairs.

Rooms from:

8 doubles: £142.50



Good to know

  • Amex not accepted, Visa / Mastercard / Maestro all accepted
  • Disabled access
  • Alfresco dining
  • Parking available
  • Dog stay: Free

Dog-friendly
Dogs are welcome throughout the Gurnard's Head. Extra towels, treats and 'little black bags' are provided and dogs stay for free.

Scenic and serene
This delightfully remote retreat is just the place to recharge those batteries.

Outdoor adventures
There are fabulous walks along the Coast Path and the hedgerows and shorelines of West Penwith. Foraging walks can also be arranged.

Water and waves
With sea views, the rugged coast on the doorstep and the opportunity to try some mackerel fishing, lovers of the sea will feel right at home.

Rooms

The cosy-rustic inn shines like a beacon of warmth and hospitality amidst a patchwork of fields and ancient farms, and its stunning location and views of the Atlantic makes it popular with walkers, tourists and city dwellers looking for tranquillity.

The eight ensuite bedrooms are simply and tastefully decorated - all have a homely, rustic feel with antique chests of drawers, shelves of books, tartan throws, easy chairs and local art on brightly painted walls, which enhances the feeling that you are staying at the home of old friends.

Some have window seats with a view over the moors and Room 7 looks out across the garden and fields to the sea; all are fitted with very comfortable Vispring beds. By contrast, the bathrooms are stylish and contemporary with powerful showers, chrome fittings, earthy tiles and white baths. The best (Room 8) boasts a courtyard with log burner and a big bathroom with tub and separate walk-in shower. Dogs are welcome in all rooms.

Restaurant & bar

Head chef Max Wilson champions seasonal Cornish produce, especially fish from the day boats, and much of the produce used in the kitchen has been grown, foraged or raised on the doorstep.

With the Atlantic just a stroll away, it's hardly surprising that locally caught fish is one of the highlights on the menu. Expect anything from mackerel with smoked tomato ketchup and fennel salad to red gurnard with katsu curry, courgette and chutney, or duck leg with mash and gooseberry chutney. Meals take place in a brightly coloured dining room with vibrant blue panelled walls and red-painted Cornish stone, there are views over the headland from some tables, and a large window offers a sneaky peek into the kitchen.

Locally brewed ales including beers from Skinners, St Austell and favourites such as Harbour Brewing or Cornish Crown are on handpump - along with Skreach cider from St Buryan. Interesting spirits range from Somerset cider brandy, Tarquin's Gin and Chase vodka to special vermouths, and even Cornish Pastis. Expect a serious approach to wine too - 20 are served by the glass or carafe.

Things to do

Cornwall is famous for surfing, of course, and if you're ever going to give it a go, beautiful Sennen Beach might be the ideal place. Or maybe St Ives, which offers a wide choice of surf schools and shops where you can get yourself all the right kit. Or, why not give kite surfing a go - Mobius Kitesurfing School have outposts at beaches in Hayle and Marazion, and also run guided mountain biking trails and hire out bikes too.

Don't miss a day out in St Ives - just ten minutes away by car. Part of the national group of galleries, Tate St Ives exhibits work by modern British artists. There's no permanent collection, instead a regularly changing programme of exhibitions that changes three times a year. The Tate also manages another property in St Ives, the gorgeous Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. There's plenty of arts and crafts cafes, quirky shops and boutiques in St Ives, so it's well worth spending an afternoon exploring this charming seaside spot.

Getting here

Directions

Nearest train station: Penzance
Taxi from station: 17min
Drive: St Ives 10min; Falmouth 1hr

Address

Zennor, St Ives, Cornwall TR26 3DE

Enquire to book

To make a booking enquiry, please use the form below or you can call our reservations team on 020 8161 0100. Our phone lines are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11am - 3pm.

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