The younger sibling of The Gurnard’s Head in nearby Treen and the Felin Fach Griffin in Brecon, The Old Coastguard overlooks the Lizard and its immaculate enclosed tropical garden leads down to a coastal path along the harbour wall. The hotel and restaurant's rural location make it an idyllic spot to escape to both for a few days or simply for an evening spent staring down at the sea with a glass of wine in hand, while head chef Jamie Porter's brasserie-style menu is sure to please all tastes.
The bar and open-plan dining room have a farmhouse feel with sage and sunflower-yellow walls, chunky wood tables and piles of chopped logs next to the huge fireplace. Meanwhile the sofa-covered sun deck is separated from the lush garden by only a pane of glass. When the weather allows it however, there's no better spot for al fresco dining thanThe Old Coatguard's sun-trap of a terrace which boasts glorious views in the evening of the sun disappearing behind the sea.
With the port of Newlyn just two miles along the coast, it comes as no surprise that local seafood is a strong suit, although Cornish meat, vegetables and game from local estates also appear on the seasonal menu. Salt cod croquettes with smoked paprika mayonnaise might precede pork chop with sauerkraut and sage, a bowl of bouillabaisse or beetroot risotto with Rosary goats’ cheese and walnuts. To finish, warm poached pear with clotted cream should suffice. Sundays at The Old Coastguard see roasts take centre stage, with a selection of different meat and fish options available.
Drinks are an equally important part of The Old Coastguard's offering, with four constantly revolving real ales available as well as three Cornish ales on draught. Wine lovers are also catered for with up to 25 different wines available at any one time by the glass and carafe.