Exploring the mystery and years of history at Cornwall's oldest pubs

CORNWALL is a treasure trove of high-quality pubs; whether you're after a pint and a chat with friends, a hearty family meal, or simply a cold beverage in a beer garden on a warm summer's day, there's plenty to choose from.

- by MAXINE DENTON

Many of these establishments are steeped in history, having graced our towns and villages for hundreds of years. However, pinpointing the oldest pub in each town is no easy feat due to a lack of clear historical evidence and an abundance of such claims from some of them.

While we can attribute many of them to specific centuries, their exact origins often remain shrouded in mystery. Missing historical records and frequent changes of ownership make it nearly impossible to construct a complete timeline.

Nonetheless, with the assistance of resources that provide information on the age of these pubs, we've compiled a list of the oldest ones in Cornish towns where you can still enjoy a pint.

THE TREE INN, STRATTON

13TH CENTURY

Once a Manor House, The Tree is one of Cornwall's oldest inns. It’s situated in the historic market town of Stratton, just a mile and a half from the popular seaside town of Bude on Cornwall's north coast.

The pub is now divided into two bars - the Beville bar and the Public bar. The Beville bar, perfect for leisurely pub lunches or cosy evening meals by the fire, offers a traditional selection of gins, whiskeys and spirits.

The Public bar, on the other hand, is the spot for fun with games of pool, darts or simply enjoying a drink.

THE HOLE IN THE WALL, BODMIN

18TH CENTURY

Before its transformation into a pub, it served as a debtors’ prison from 1749 to 1779.

Its name originates from the way food was passed through a hole in the wall.

The pub features a roaring fire during the winter months, eclectic memorabilia adorning the ceiling, and a beer garden filled with hanging baskets.

THE MASONS ARMS, CAMELFORD

18TH CENTURY

An 18th century St Austell Brewery pub, it boasts a separate restaurant and a beer garden that backs onto the River Camel.