The Pandora Inn Falmouth

The Pandora Inn Falmouth.

Introduction.

For the first time in 25 years, there is an unmissable opportunity to run one of the county’s most iconic waterfront inn’s: The Pandora Inn near Falmouth. Its spectacular setting on the edge of Restronguet Creek on the mouth of the beautiful River Fal, puts this picturesque destination pub, popular with visitors from both land and water, on the must- visit list of many locals and holidaymakers.
The pub itself is timeless. Parts of the Inn date back to the 13th Century and retain features such as flagstone floors, low-beamed ceilings and a traditional thatched roof. It’s loved for its historical interiors, maritime memorabilia and log fires as much as its summertime appeal, with an extensive pontoon offering panoramic views and alfresco dining. Positioned perfectly for walkers and sailors alike, it’s a perfect summer or winter destination pub and a popular spot for kayaks, paddle boards and boats to moor up from the nearby beaches, marinas, yacht clubs and harbours including Loe Beach, Mylor, Falmouth and St Mawes.

Retiring business partners, John Milan and Steve Bellman, have been at the helm of the Pandora since 1999 and are well known Westcountry publicans. Over 25 years they have built a reputation for high standards of food and drink service to complement the spectacular setting and are now ready to leave their legacy to the next publican passionate about sharing Pandora with locals, visitors, foodies, walkers, seafarers and adventurers alike.

The Pandora Inn.

Sat in a prime position on the charming banks of Restronguet Creek in Falmouth, location doesn’t get better than this for a waterside pub. With a unique and inviting pontoon beer garden which juts out into the peaceful river, the views from the Pandora are truly breathtaking. Offering approximately 300 covers and a good-sized car park, people can easily access the pub by road or moor up on the pontoon via the river.
In 2011, the Pandora suffered a devastating fire. The whole of the first floor was destroyed and only a few charred timbers remained. Once the shock of the fire had subsided, it became apparent that the blaze had given the owners an opportunity to give the Pandora a ‘quality’ facelift. 1970s partitions and additions were destroyed in the fire and, with its Grade II listing, the Pandora could only be restored with traditional materials and building methods.
The outpouring of affection for the ancient inn was overwhelming; messages were received from across the world and, as the tenants issued news updates about the rebuild, the Pandora established a huge following on social media. It’s clear that this magical old Cornish inn has a place in many people’s hearts, and its sensitive rebuild has encapsulated the iconic aspects of a great British pub – from its various cosy nooks to the first-floor dining room, which was transformed into a stunning vaulted space with traditionally pegged green oak beams.

Internal Trade Area.

One bar operation, a trade kitchen downstairs and an upstairs carvery service area. Five cosy rooms offer approximately 150 seats for drinking and dining with a large, vaulted ceiling seating/dining area upstairs, along with a comfortable room for private dining experiences to the rear. The kitchen teams are busy all year round with trade, with this historic pub’s excellent location, open fires and inviting feel drawing people to it throughout the seasons.

External Trade Area.

The site benefits from being in a prominent Creekside position. Adjacent to the pub is the outdoor seating area and beer garden pontoon with a further 150 covers, perfect for guests to relax on the sun-drenched platform while taking in magnificent views of the tranquil water. The exterior of the building embodies a classic pub, complete with a thatched roof and quaint chocolate box windows.

“Prefect Evening on the Pontoon”

“We have just come back from a lovely evening meal and drinks at The Pandora Inn on one of the hottest Saturdays in July. The staff were excellent, as was the food, with the minimal amount of waiting on a very busy night. Well done to all the team… it was perfect.”
Kay, pandorainn.com, reviews

“Pandora Inn”

“After our boat trip on the Fal, we visited this pub, 50 years ago we had a very special holiday in the area. It is still as wonderful as we remember, we spent a relaxing afternoon on the pontoon, as it was so warm.”
Diane Turner, pandorainn.com, reviews

Annual Rent: £112,000
Fixtures & Fittings: TBC
Deposit: One quarter of the annual rent
Fully tied agreement. Tenancy/lease length terms to be decided or negotiated.

Previous Trade.

January – December 2021
203 Barrels of draught, bottled beer & cider 11936 litres of mineral
5266 litres of wine and spirits (inc PPS)

January – December 2022
253 Barrels of draught, bottled beer & cider 14,899 litres of mineral
5622 litres of wine and spirits (inc PPS)

January – December 2023
245 Barrels of draught, bottled beer & cider 13,387 litres of mineral
5376 litres of wine and spirits (inc PPS)

The Pandora Inn is available for running from early 2025. The pub will close in January for redecoration with a view to reopening with a fully supported local and national PR launch late February2025. As our new Business Partner for this exciting venture, you’ll have great opportunities to enhance the Pandora Inn’s appeal with the full support of our industry-renowned St Austell Brewery team. With room for creative culinary ventures, events and community engagement, there’s potential to elevate this beloved pub beyond its already brilliant reputation.