Pub in Cornwall Pandora Inn looking for new publican tenant

For the first time in a quarter of a century, the magical Pandora Inn near Falmouth is looking for a new publican.

The 13th Century Inn comes with its very own pontoon which doubles as a beer garden, stretching out into the creek.

The Pandora Inn is one of the best known pubs in Cornwall (Image: James Ram. www.jamesram.co.uk)

The world-famous pub hit the headlines following a devastating fire in 2011 but, due to its subsequent sensitive restoration using traditional materials and building methods to protect its Grade II listed charm, it is once again one of Cornwall's prettiest pubs.

The Pandora was hit by a devastating fire in 2011

Parts of the riverside inn date back to the 13th Century and, with its flagstone floors, low-beamed ceilings and thatched roof it’s difficult to believe that much has changed since that time.

While the exterior views are stunning, the interior is impressive too - packed full of maritime memorabilia, including a replica of HMS Pandora in one of the dining spaces, log fires and even a ship figurehead.

The Pandora Inn is popular with walkers (Image: Supplied)

It’s a popular spot with locals and those fond of the water, with its pontoon beer garden serving as a space to moor up kayaks, paddle boards and boats – perfectly situated for those visiting from further afield too, with marinas, yacht clubs and harbours including Loe Beach, Mylor, Falmouth and St Mawes not far from the ancient pub.

The old Cornish inn has a place in many people’s hearts, and its sensitive rebuild encapsulated many iconic aspects of a great British pub – from its various cosy nooks to the stunning vaulted dining space complete with giant oak beams.

the stunning vaulted dining space complete with giant oak beams (Image: Supplied)

Clive Greene, Head of Tenanted Estate for St Austell Brewery, said: “Running the historic Pandora Inn offers an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Cornish heritage. This pub is not just a place to enjoy a pint; it’s a destination.

"The Pandora Inn's prime location offers access to scenic waterways, perfect for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a steady flow of tourists and locals year-round, the potential for vibrant business growth is immense.

“As a new tenant, you’ll have great opportunities to enhance the Pandora Inn’s appeal. With room for creative culinary ventures events and community engagement, there’s potential to elevate this pub beyond its already brilliant reputation.”

The pub has its own beer jetty (Image: Supplied)

Handing back the keys of the St Austell Brewery pub after 25 years at the helm, is esteemed landlord John Milan, who alongside his business partner, Steve, is a well-known Westcountry publican and hotelier of many years’ standing.

The new publican will have the chance to flex their creative flair with culinary ventures, events and community engagement, elevating the beloved pub beyond its already brilliant reputation.

The Pandora Inn, which is a jewel in the crown of St Austell Brewery’s 120+ strong leased and tenanted estate across the South West, is available for running from early 2025.

The pub will close in January for redecoration with a view to reopening in February.