Portloe Community Secures The Ship Inn as a Community-Owned Pub

Portloe’s historic Ship Inn has been saved from sale and brought into community ownership after raising over £400,000. The freehold is now secured by the Portloe Community Benefit Society Limited (PCBS), but the public is being urged to continue supporting the next stage of its revival and to help find a tenant to run the venue.

To back the campaign or register interest as a potential tenant, visit www.saveourship.co.uk.

From Fisherman’s Cottage to Community Anchor

Built in the 17th century as a fisherman’s cottage and converted into a pub around the early 20th century, The Ship has been described as the beating heart of Portloe. It was once known as the Portloe Drinking Kitchen and has long played a central role in village life.

The community effort began in December 2024 when news broke that the pub was up for sale. Supporters quickly rallied to ensure it would remain at the centre of village life, with PCBS officially formed in April 2025 to purchase and manage it. An offer, subject to contract, was accepted by St Austell Brewery.

The project is part-funded by the UK Government through the Community Capacity Fund, managed locally by Cornwall Council under the Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme.

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A Place Full of Memories

Residents have spoken of what The Ship means to them and why its preservation matters.

“It’s a very precious place for locals and visitors alike. Memories are made, friendships are forged and life is celebrated,” said Luke Dunstone.

“It’s been a part of everybody’s life that has lived in Portloe throughout hundreds of years,” added Rob Cupper.

Peter Veasey explained: “It’s been part of my life here and if this should disappear part of my life is gone and I don’t want that.”

Jenny Casson summed it up: “It’s the absolute beating heart of our village. There’s just something really special about it that gets in your heart. It makes you want to be here and hold on to The Ship particularly.”

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Crowdfunder Launched to Keep The Ship Sailing

With the pub now secured, the PCBS has launched a Crowdfunder to raise money for the purchase price balance, legal costs and much-needed renovations. You can support the campaign at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/save-our-ship-inn-portloe.

As part of the fundraising drive, a prize draw is offering a week’s stay in several local properties, including the Old Dairy at Tregenna Farm, Hillside Cottage with its sea views, and the Grade II listed Cliff Garden. A £150 voucher for Philleigh Way Cookery School has also been donated, with more prizes being added.

Plans for the Future

PCBS volunteer member Steve Hammett confirmed: “We’re thrilled to share that, through pledges, we’ve already raised over £400,000. This has allowed us to buy the pub but we still need your help to reach our full goal and secure the future of The Ship Inn.

“Our mission has always been to buy the pub, bring it under community ownership, and upgrade it so it can truly serve as a vibrant social hub for Portloe.”

The vision includes sourcing food and drink locally, investing in energy efficiency, and creating a space that both honours Portloe’s heritage and serves future generations.

“We want to preserve an historic building that reflects Portloe’s maritime past while making it fit for the future,” Steve continued. “The Ship will celebrate the old and the new. By supporting local producers, tradespeople, and fishermen, The Ship will create jobs, keep money circulating locally, and attract visitors throughout the year.”

He added: “It’s not just about owning a pub – it’s about long-term community stewardship, shared purpose and collective pride.”

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Tenant Opportunity in Portloe

Alongside fundraising, the group is actively seeking a tenant to live and work in one of Cornwall’s most picturesque villages.

“Support us today and help Sail Our Ship,” Steve concluded. “Be part of the story. Help us restore and preserve The Ship Inn – a cherished community anchor where culture, connection, and good old Cornish spirit come together.”

To find out more or get involved, visit saveourship.co.uk

📷Credit: CHAOS Digital