Old Quay House Inn, Lelant

This large mainly food-orientated inn south west of Hayle, overlooking the Hayle estuary and just a few minutes walk from Lelant Saltings railway station, stands on its own quay. The original building was once a toll-house for the causeway from Lelant to Hayle. The long single bar extends down one side of a large room, laid out for dining around the opposite walls and windows although there are (very low) comfy sofas with tables for drinking and chatting arranged down the centre. The room extends into a separate large space set out for more formal restaurant purposes. An intervening fireplace is open front and back and framed by massive rough-hewn granite blocks. Whilst the pub is clearly food-led, drinkers are also welcome (bar stools are present); there is low-level background piped music but conversation is the dominant sound at busy times. B&B accommodation is motel-style in 6 units next to the pub. A lift provides extra access to the upstairs function room. The location is popular with bird watchers and a short walk from the station.