Step Inside The Wellington: Boscastle’s Historic Pub Reopens After Stunning Makeover

One of Cornwall’s Oldest Inns Welcomes Guests Back With New Terrace, Stylish Rooms and a Nod to Royal Guests

A pub steeped in centuries of history – including visits from royalty and literary greats – reopened its doors today (Wednesday 2nd April) following a full transformation by St Austell Brewery.

The Wellington Hotel in Boscastle, affectionately known as ‘The Welly’, welcomes guests back from today Wednesday 2nd April following a major refurbishment by St Austell Brewery.

The new-look venue features 14 refurbished bedrooms, three family-sized apartments, three bar and restaurant areas, and an extensive new terrace dining space with sea air and cliffside views. Indoors, the pub now offers 125 covers, with space for a further 100 guests outside.

Royal Visits and Flood Resilience

One of Cornwall’s oldest coaching inns, The Wellington has played host to King Edward VII and Thomas Hardy, who gifted the pub a set of decorative brass and ruby glass oil lamps. These lamps now take pride of place among a thoughtfully curated interior that mixes historic features with contemporary flair.

The renovation pays tribute to the pub’s survival through the 2004 Boscastle flood, with design details inspired by the surrounding woodland and coastal landscape. Original features like stained-glass panels and a large open fire in the main bar have been preserved, and the pub now boasts three working fireplaces following the restoration of one that had been condemned.

First of Three Major Revamps

This reopening marks the first in a trio of investments planned for 2024 by St Austell Brewery across its 45 managed pubs, with upcoming refurbishments set to follow at Pedn Olva in St Ives and the Royal Castle in Dartmouth.

Andrew Turner, Chief Operating Officer at St Austell Brewery, said:

“We are incredibly excited to be reopening The Wellington, the first of three major refurbishments across our managed estate this year. When we acquired the pub three years ago, we had a vision of what it could be and following this investment, we believe that The Wellington has been transformed for the next chapter of its wonderful history. We can’t wait to welcome our regulars and visitors back to showcase our award-winning hospitality.”

Natasha Milne, Property Director at the brewery, added:

“We are delighted to unveil the transformation of The Wellington. Our focus has been on preserving its character and heritage while incorporating modern touches, including a welcoming and accessible outdoor seating area. We’re excited for both locals and visitors to experience it, and we can’t wait to hear their thoughts.”

Food, Fires and a Secret Tidal Pool

The updated food menu features local produce, with fish supplied by Matthew Stevens, meat from Brian Etherington of Redruth, and artisan bread by Baker Toms. The newly extended bar will also offer a broader selection of St Austell Brewery’s award-winning beers.

Overnight guests can choose from three types of accommodation:

• The Welly Rooms – super-premium suites with generous layouts and top views

• Premium rooms

• Cabin rooms

Ten bedrooms are dog-friendly, and all rooms are stocked with plush swim robes and beach bags – ideal for a dip in the harbour or the nearby secret tidal pool.

The renovation also introduces intimate dining areas on the first floor and a locals’ snug, designed to blend traditional charm with a modern layout. The Spy Glass and Chart Room, available for private hire, feature tall windows with views over the River Valency and are decorated in tribute to Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, after whom the inn is named.

General manager Taylor Cameron returns to lead the team, who had been working at other St Austell Brewery sites during the renovation. The Wellington joins a list of recent success stories for the company, including The Pier House in Charlestown, Rising Sun in St Mawes, and Masons Arms in Branscombe.

📍 The Wellington in Boscastle reopens today Wednesday 2nd April – inviting guests to experience the latest chapter of one of Cornwall’s most iconic pubs.

Contact & Opening Details

Opening Times

Monday	8am — 11pm
Tuesday	8am — 11pm
Wednesday	8am — 11pm
Thursday	8am — 11pm
Friday	8am — 11pm
Saturday	8am — 11pm
Sunday	8am — 11pm

Food Service Times

Monday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm
Tuesday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm
Wednesday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm
Thursday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm
Friday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm
Saturday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm
Sunday	8:00am — 11am // 12pm — 9pm

Address: The Harbour, Boscastle PL35 0AQ

Phone: 01840 250202