on 02/05/2025
Cornwall's stunning coastlines and charming countryside make it an ideal destination for a bank holiday getaway, with tons of beach bars to unwind in and seaside restaurants to get your gourmet fix! To enhance your experience, we've curated a list of the best pub gardens where you can relax, enjoy local produce, and soak up the sun and the stunning views.
1. The Watering Hole, Perranporth
Situated directly on Perranporth Beach, The Watering Hole is the UK's only bar located on a beach. This unique spot offers a relaxed atmosphere with live music, a variety of food and drinks, and breathtaking sea views. Look our for live music events and their annual festival on the beach, too,
2. Pandora Inn, Restronguet Creek
This 13th-century inn boasts a thatched roof and a floating pontoon for outdoor seating. Accessible by foot, car, or boat, it's perfect for enjoying a Sunday roast or a pint while overlooking the tranquil creek.
3. The Ship Inn, Porthleven
Located on the harbourside, The Ship Inn features a tiered garden offering panoramic views of the historic harbour and ocean. It's an ideal spot for savouring Cornish ales after a coastal walk and offers a real taste of Cornwall with quirky and historic interior.
4. Holywell Beach Bar, Newquay
You will often find a big screen out in the beer garden, and there are always stunning views of one of Cornwall’s most iconic beaches and islands out at sea to soak in. It's nestled right by the sand dunes.
5. The Sloop Inn, St Ives
Dating back to circa 1312, The Sloop Inn is one of Cornwall's oldest pubs. Its outdoor decking area provides a lovely spot to enjoy the bustling harbour views. This must be one of the most scenic and historic pubs in the UK.
6. The Old Coastguard, Mousehole
Near the finest beaches in West Cornwall, you’ll find this pub offers a tropical garden with uninterrupted views of St Clements Isle. It's a serene setting for a sundowner or a leisurely meal.
7. The Working Boat, Falmouth
Set on the waterfront with its own private pontoon, The Working Boat offers a selection of fifteen beers and ciders on tap, including their own brew. It's dog and family-friendly, making it a great spot for everyone. Seats fill up fast in the summer though, so be warned, it’s a prime spot a short walk out of the main town centre.
8. The First & Last Inn, Sennen
This 17th-century coaching inn, a retreat for smugglers since the 17th century, features a sheltered beer garden and play area. Steeped in smuggling history and just a mile from must-visit lands end, it's a charming place to enjoy local ales and freshly cooked food.
9. The Peterville Inn, St Agnes
Named Pub of the Year by Visit England, The Peterville Inn offers an outdoor deck and a high-quality menu highlighting local produce. Its picturesque setting near Trevaunance Cove adds to its charm. There’s outdoor decking with heaters and blankets when the sunsets and the chill sets in after a day at the beach!
10. The Quayside Inn, Falmouth
With a welcoming beer garden, The Quayside Inn is perfect for unwinding with family or friends, it’s also dog friendly. It's an ideal spot to catch up over lunch or enjoy a quick drink while soaking up the sunshine, or for sports fans, showing all the big stuff on the big screen with Sky Sports.
11. St Kew Inn, Bodmin
Tucked away in the peaceful village of St Kew, this 15th-century inn is a hidden gem with one of Cornwall’s most idyllic pub gardens. Surrounded by mature trees, the spacious outdoor seating area feels like a secret find, a real countryside retreat. The food here is a real highlight – with seasonal, locally sourced dishes that change regularly, from fresh seafood to hearty roasts.
12. The Coombe Barton Inn, Crackington Haven
On the rugged North Cornwall coast, The Coombe Barton Inn boasts one of the most scenic seaside beer gardens in the county, just a few steps from the beach at Crackington Haven. It’s the perfect place for sunset. This pub is a dream spot for a post-surf pint, too. The garden has uninterrupted sea views, making it a fantastic place to relax with a local ale or cider as the waves crash. The menu features pub classics and dogs are welcome too.
13. The Three Pilchards, Polperro
As Polperro’s oldest pub, The Three Pilchards is full of charm – and its rooftop beer garden is the real showstopper. This pub, in one of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages, offers elevated outdoor seating with sweeping views over the harbour and out to sea. It’s the perfect place to unwind after wandering the narrow, cobbled streets of Polperro. The menu is packed with fresh seafood dishes and pub favourites.
Plan Your Cornwall Bank Holiday Stay
To make the most of your bank holiday weekends in the UK, consider booking a Cornish holiday cottage, lodge or mobile home through Select Cornwall. Whether you're seeking coastal views or countryside tranquility, you'll find the perfect accommodation to compliment your pub garden adventures.
