Rashleigh Inn, Polkerris

This attractive free house is a former Coastguard watch house and boathouse, converted to replace a pub called the General Elliott, lost during a storm and floods when the sea wall collapsed in 1915. Situated down a steep wooded valley by the Saints' Way path and bordering an isolated beach, it boasts fine panoramic views of St. Austell and Mevagissey Bays. The changing beers increase from two in the winter to up to four during the summer months; the beers are generally selected from the ranges of Castle, Tremethick, Firebrand, St Ives, Treens or other SW breweries, not St Austell or Doom Bar! The comfortable split-level lounge has exposed stonework, beamed ceilings and open fires with attractive furnishings, and a splendid slate-topped bar. Adjoining is a cosy restaurant where excellent food is served. Children are allowed (with parents) in the saloon bar eating area; well-behaved dogs on leads are permitted throughout. Pub games include shove ha'penny, dominoes, the famous hook & ring game and other board game classics. This pub, close also to the SW coastal footpath, is well worth finding, summer or winter, and is the perfect place to watch the setting sun.