Trengilly Wartha Inn

In the half dozen or so years since William and Lisa Lea arrived at Trengilly Wartha, they have established it as one of Cornwall's leading inns. The Cornish name of this friendly free house means a settlement above the trees - although it actually lies at the foot of a densely wooded valley. Originally built as a small farmstead in the late 18th century, the building was sold for just £300 in 1946. Over the next decade, the Ballamy family renovated and extended the building with help from German prisoners of war, who installed the double staircase. A full liquor licence was granted as recently as 1960, and today the black-beamed bar with its cricketing memorabilia offers Skinner's Cornish Knocker amongst other local ales and ciders. There's also an extensive wine list with 15 varieties offered by the glass, and over forty malt whiskies. Meanwhile, the menu includes locally-sourced Cornish produce wherever possible. Expect classic lunchtime fare, including a range of traditional ploughman's with home-made granary bread, pickles and chutneys; and hot dishes like Tywardreath sausages, mustard mash and gravy. Fish and seafood feature strongly in the restaurant, with starters like Falmouth River mussels, or smoked whiting with herb butter. Main course fish dishes might include wild sea bass, or fillet of brill with sundried tomato and baby spinach. Meat eaters and vegetarians will also find plenty of choice - pork fillet with prune, apple and brandy sauce; and leek, broccoli and mushroom pancakes are typical choices, whilst home-made sweets with seasonal organic fruit are offered on the chalkboard. A pretty beer garden and vine-shaded pergola complete the picture, surrounded by the three meadows that formed part of the original smallholding. Booking for meals may be required.