A hidden gem

Ian Grant shares with us his experience of what it’s like to stay at The Pickwick Inn.

Between Wadebridge and Padstow, near the idyllic village of St Issey, resides the award-winning Pickwick Inn. Set within seven acres of stunning Cornish countryside, peace and tranquillity await in abundance. We hear a first hand account from our very own Business Development Manager, Ian Grant. 

“it has a traditional feel, with low beams and a cosy fireplace”

He tells us: “Arriving at the main bar area to check in, the staff are warm and welcoming and straight away make you feel completely at home.” Ian was lucky enough to spend the night at the inn with a friend and was shown to accommodation situated on the first floor, which is one of nine rooms available. He explains: “Our attention immediately turned to the large double glass sliding doors leading out to a private balcony with uninterrupted views across the Camel Estuary, stretching towards Padstow and Rock, and with swallows flying overhead, it couldn’t get much better.” The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, managing to expertly tread the line between modern and homely.

Ian continues: “The bar was equally inviting – it has a traditional feel, with low beams and a cosy fireplace. You know that as the nights start to draw in, this would be a great place to sit by the fire with friends over a bottle of red.” However, Ian’s drink of choice was a cold (Cornish) gin and tonic, enjoyed sat in the sunshine by the pool. “It’s the perfect spot to close your eyes, enjoy the sound of birds and feel the warmth of a hot summer’s day… my idea of bliss. However, it wasn’t long before rumbling bellies made us peel ourselves away from the tranquil setting outside and head to the restaurant.” Situated at the back of the pub, the restaurant has floor to ceiling windows that take advantage of the wonderful views of the Camel Estuary and the spacious, modern and tastefully-decorated room is just as inviting for large parties as it is for small groups.

The open plan kitchen allows customers to see the dedicated team at work preparing delicious seasonal dishes and creates a building anticipation for the arrival of your food. Ian tells us: “There was a great selection of wine – the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc caught our eye and it did not disappoint! Normally I’m pretty quick but this menu really did stump me with lots of local, fresh produce.We finally decided on hand-picked Padstow white crab and chicken liver parfait, served with Cornish apple brandy jelly, beetroot chutney and oven-baked crispy bread…The portion sizes were just right, enough to satisfy but they didn’t spoil our appetite for the main event.” Here at Cornwall Living we like the look of the fresh Porthilly Oysters, served raw with shallot vinaigrette and lemon mayo, yum! Now onto the mains Ian tells us: “I always like to try something a little different when eating out and this was definitely not a usual choice for me, but it caught my eye and I had to try it – slow cooked seasonal vegetable curry with house-roasted spices and coriander rice; bursting with flavour, it really hit the spot! Bed finally called and it didn’t take long to fall asleep in the peaceful surroundings.”

Breakfast signified the perfect end to a great stay, Ian explains: “A breakfast of cereal, fresh fruit and yoghurts were available for us to help ourselves to, and the staff took our order for some fresh coffee. The hot menu proved a hit with locally sourced ingredients and we both happily tucked into a full English.”

So, if you’re looking for somewhere to take the family for a special meal or a weekend away then The Pickwick Inn is the place for you, the tranquil surroundings, beautiful views and comfortable rooms making for an idyllic stay, which Ian has discovered first hand. “The Pickwick Inn really does cater for everyone and leaves you feeling relaxed and ready to face the bustling world.”

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There’s also a dog-friendly snug in the bar if you’ve been out walking your four legged friend and want to enjoy a cool beer or a cup of coffee. What’s more, The Pickwick Inn also caters for weddings and events, so just get in touch if you’re as impressed as we are!