Restoration of a coastal classic

St Austell Brewery continues its long-standing commitment to preserving its South West pubs.

Rooted in Cornwall for 175 years, St Austell Brewery has long championed and invested in its iconic South West pubs. Its latest project, the transformation of the Royal Castle in Dartmouth, continues that commitment to safeguarding our region’s vital pubs.

Following a nine-month renovation, the company has breathed new life into the historic 17th-century inn, revealing its sympathetic new look at the end of last year. The Royal Castle, proudly positioned on Dartmouth’s harbourfront, has been sensitively restored with great care. St Austell Brewery, which operates pubs across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, has worked meticulously to preserve the building’s period character while revitalising it for the future.

Throughout the renovation, key elements have been reused and repurposed. Existing timber wall panelling has been retained, furniture has been reupholstered, and listed timber floorboards have been carefully restored. The pub’s Victorian windows, previously hidden behind later partitions, are now back on display, bringing natural light and craftsmanship to the fore. Outside, a soft, paleplaster finish echoes the building’s likely original stone façade and complements Dartmouth’s coastal surroundings.

All 24 bedrooms, many with sweeping views across the Dart Estuary, have been refreshed with a new look inspired by the pub’s waterside location. Across the building, guests can enjoy a choice of bar areas and dining experiences. On the ground floor, the Dory Lounge provides a relaxed setting for informal drinks and light bites, complete with a dedicated sports viewing area. The Ketch Bar offers cosy nooks and open fires, while a more traditional pub atmosphere awaits towards the rear. Upstairs, the Sloop serves everything from morning coffee to late-night cocktails, complemented by a private dining area available for hire.

The Royal Castle’s restoration is the seventh major refurbishment in St Austell Brewery’s managed estate in the past three years, following significant projects at the Wellington in Boscastle, the Pier House in Charlestown and most recently, the Pedn Olva in St Ives. Each project underscores the company’s deep commitment to investing in the South West’s pubs, people and places.

Visit staustellbrewery.co.uk to book a stay or a table at the Royal Castle or to explore St Austell Brewery’s other pubs across the South West.

St Austell Brewery
St Austell PL25 4BY
www.staustellbrewery.co.uk