New Era At Hayle’s Original Brewery Pub
The Cornish Arms, a historic pub in Hayle, is enjoying a remarkable renaissance thanks to new landlords, Huw and Claire Williams.
Their efforts, supported by St Austell Brewery, have resulted in a 40% increase in turnover; Sunday business has increased by 70%, fuelled by the pub’s hugely popular Roasts.
St Austell Brewery Estate Director, Adam Luck, commented: “It’s fantastic to see The Cornish Arms in Hayle become a thriving eating and drinking house, and a centre for the community once again. Claire and Huw have done a great job of attracting new customers – bringing a real buzz back to a building with a long and fascinating history.”
The Cornish Arms began life in the early 19th Century as a shop selling the wines and spirits of Hayle’s very own Ellis Brewery; after 1870 it also sold beers produced just a few metres away at a new ‘steam brewery’ (now Brewery Court).
The Cornish Arms became a traditional pub – a popular spot for the miners, foundry and shipyard workers of West Cornwall.
Ellis Brewery later merged with Walter Hicks and Co Ltd Wine Merchants, which in 1934 became St Austell Brewery.
Claire and Huw took over last year and the 150-cover pub was given a make-over, with wood burners, comfy sofas, a book library, children’s toys and a projector for film nights.
Claire commented: “We want the pub to be at the heart of the community, and for everyone to feel welcome. For example, we are very family-focused, and welcome dogs. We are working with lots of community groups to provide a base for their activities, and have a busy schedule of events and live music planned.”
A dynamic new kitchen team has also been bought in led by Consultant Chef Ryan Venning (Co-Founder of The Little Gem Catering Company and former Head Chef at Porthminster Beach Café in St Ives).
Ryan has overseen the creation of a menu featuring pub classics, made using quality local produce; for example meat is sourced from The Brian Etherington Meat Company, and fish from Matthew Stevens Cornish Fish.
Ryan is also mentoring Head Chef Jordan George who, at just 22, is one of Cornwall’s most promising young chefs.
Jordan, who is originally from Penzance, said: “It’s a challenge as we can do a lot of covers – especially on a Sunday – but I’m loving it. I’m keen to learn as much as I can from this experience, and from working with Ryan.”
With a stylish new look, an ambitious kitchen team, and enthusiastic landlords, The Cornish Arms is now a warm and welcoming food destination in the heart of Hayle.
The Cornish Arms is hosting a Beer Festival (‘Fools Festival’), 31st March – 1st April. The family-friendly event will feature guest ales, bands and entertainment for all ages.