A New Chapter for The Copley Arms: 17th-Century Pub in Hessenford Reopens with a Fresh Look

The Copley Arms, a 17th-century village pub in Hessenford, Cornwall, has reopened its doors with a fresh new look and under new management. Owned by St Austell Brewery, the historic pub was relaunched last weekend by Hannah Mayne and Jared Lothian, who also run the award-winning Castle Inn in Lydford.

A Historic Pub Gets a Makeover

Situated near Seaton, The Copley Arms has undergone a cosy refurbishment, with updates designed to highlight its charm. The makeover includes new flooring, fresh paint, and the addition of partitions to create inviting nooks. Featuring stone walls, beamed ceilings, and ‘old’ furniture, the pub retains its historic character while offering a refreshed feel.

Guests can also enjoy a scenic outdoor area, where the River Seaton flows peacefully by, adding to the pub’s picturesque appeal.

Experienced Publicans at the Helm

Hannah and Jared, who have been running The Castle Inn since 2019, bring their expertise to The Copley Arms. The couple’s previous venture was crowned Devon’s Pub of the Year at the 2023/24 Devon Tourism Awards.

Expressing her excitement, Hannah said:

“We were so excited to take on The Copley, as it sits in such a great location in the lovely village of Hessenford. It’s in a great spot close to Torpoint, Saltash, Plymouth, Looe, and Liskeard. It’s also ideal for people visiting or from popular spots such as Polperro, as well as Downderry and Seaton, which are only a stone’s throw away.

“We want the pub to serve as a community space for all – it’s such a fantastic pub with loads of space, and it’s in a great location; it just needed a bit of love put back into it.”

St Austell Brewery’s Support

The Copley Arms is part of St Austell Brewery’s tenanted estate, which includes more than 120 pubs across the South West. Speaking about Hannah and Jared’s success, Clive Greene, Head of the Tenanted Estate for St Austell Brewery, said:

“It’s fantastic to have people inside the business who are excelling and growing with us. Hannah and Jared are great business partners who have reinvigorated The Castle Inn in Lydford.

“Since becoming business partners at The Castle, Hannah and Jared’s team has gone from strength to strength. They started out with 10 employees, which has now quadrupled – showing how hard Hannah and Jared have worked in making the pub a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. We’re looking forward to seeing what they do at The Copley Arms and bringing their brilliant touch to another much-loved pub.”

What’s Next for The Copley Arms?

Looking ahead, further updates are planned for The Copley Arms in 2025, with bedrooms set to be refreshed. This addition will allow guests to stay by the river and enjoy not only the pub but also the charming village and its proximity to Cornwall’s beaches and walking trails.

For more information about St Austell Brewery and its extensive portfolio of pubs, inns, and hotels across the West Country, visit www.staustellbrewery.co.uk.