Think of all the best things about an unpretentious pub: great beers from a family brewer, delicious local food, open fires, live music and the warmest welcome. Then add the kind of luxurious rooms that offer an indulgent escape from your daily routine. That pretty much describes The Wellington in Boscastle, owned by the award-winning St Austell Brewery.
If you walk into a pub you have never been in before and feel like a local within minutes, that always seems like a good sign. The lovely staff were friendly and attentive to everyone, and eager to help with any questions about walking routes and bus timetables, as well as all the fine food and drink on offer. Even the pretty cat in the plum collar that we met on arrival in the car park sidled over to greet us. You can’t fail to be charmed!
What are the rooms like?
The 14 rooms have been beautifully refurbished with a colour scheme of muted teals, heathers and mustards, and artworks connected to the region’s history or flora and fauna. King-size beds with feather and down pillows ensure cosy comfort and peaceful slumbers, and the wingback chairs
by the tall sash windows were made for curling up in with a good book,
while enjoying the moreish Foxcombe Bakehouse biscuits thoughtfully provided. Best of all was a freestanding tub in the beautiful en suite bathroom – just perfect for soaking tired muscles after a blustery walk up and down the steep cliff paths of Cornwall’s north coast. There are gorgeous toiletries from Cornish brand land&water, too.
How’s the food?
The Wellington prides itself on using local suppliers from around the region, reducing food miles and delivering quality ingredients for its menu. I couldn’t visit the coast and not order the local catch – in this case, pan-fried hake with potato gnocchi, chargrilled Tenderstem broccoli and lemongrass and lime leaf split cream sauce with chive oil, which was every bit as fresh and delicious as it sounds. Happily, it left enough room for a proper sticky toffee pudding with glorious clotted cream vanilla ice cream, gingernut crumb and toffee sauce.
Breakfast covers everything from cereals and pastries to cold meats and cheeses or a cooked meal, so whatever takes your fancy is catered for. The Hugo – a delicious spritz of Prosecco, St Germain and soda – is a fine way to kick off a Friday evening, especially during balmy summer weather, when the big outdoor seating area is open.
How accessible is it?
Being an old Grade II-listed building and something of a warren of corridors and steps, there isn’t a lot of scope to make this hotel truly accessible; however, do contact the team and they will be able to answer any questions.
Some of the rooms are big enough to accommodate cots or Z-beds for children, and you can book a dog-friendly room if you want to bring your pet. The price for this will include a ‘Proper Dog’ hamper, with treats and toys to keep your pooch happy.
Any eco touches?
St Austell Brewery was named the Best Sustainable Pub Company at this year’s Publican Awards – essentially the Oscars of the pub trade – recognising its commitment to embedding sustainability into its operations. This includes the brewery’s initiatives to source ingredients locally and reduce food waste.
What does it cost?
Double rooms start from a reasonable £104 per night for bed and breakfast. For dog-friendly rooms, a charge of £20 per dog, per stay, will be added, payable on departure.
How do I book?
Call 0345 241 1133, or go to wellingtonhotelboscastle.com.
