Discover the charm of The Cornish Arms in Tavistock, Devon United Kingdom, a standout gastro pub and inn known for exquisite dining and cozy lodging.

Nestled on West Street in the picturesque town of Tavistock, The Cornish Arms offers a perfect blend of vintage-style rooms and a gastropub experience that food lovers and travelers won’t forget. This welcoming spot is famed for its top-tier gastro grub prepared by a seasoned team of chefs, delivering dishes that balance innovation with comfort.

Exceptional dining experience at The Cornish Arms

The Cornish Arms impresses with its carefully crafted menu featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Patrons rave about dishes like the perfectly cooked steak with clever sauces, the smoked haddock omelette, and beautifully composed vegetable tarts. The vegan options, such as the roast cauliflower and raspberry granola dessert, showcase the kitchen’s versatility and commitment to catering to diverse tastes.

Visitors consistently highlight the quality of the food as "amazing," with some calling it the best gastro grub around, thanks to the experience and skill of the chefs. The menu also boasts a fine wine list and dishes rich in flavor yet balanced perfectly, ensuring every bite delights.

Warm and inviting ambiance with thoughtful lodging

Beyond its culinary delights, The Cornish Arms is cherished for its welcoming and cozy atmosphere. The pub features a tasteful country vibe with a beautifully managed bar and a relaxing beer garden perfect for unwinding. Guests frequently mention the genuine smiles and attentive service that create an intoxicatingly warm environment.

The inn’s vintage-style rooms are thoughtfully furnished with quality bedding and muted colors for a tranquil retreat. Locally made toiletries with essential oils add a special touch of luxury, distinguishing this inn from typical accommodations. Pet owners will appreciate that dogs are welcomed both in the bar and beer garden, making it a friendly stop for travelers with furry companions.

Community sentiment and practical information

The local community and visitors alike hold The Cornish Arms in high regard for its unpretentious quality and attentive hospitality. While the food and ambiance earn glowing praise, some guests have mentioned that the portions may be modest and prices on the higher side — a trade-off many are happy to make for the exceptional experience.

Does The Cornish Arms offer gluten-free options? Yes, The Cornish Arms provides gluten-free options on their menu.
Is The Cornish Arms pet-friendly? Yes, pets are welcome in the bar and the beer garden.
Do I need to make a reservation? Yes, it is recommended to book a table in advance due to the pub's popularity.
What are the opening hours? Monday – Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00; Friday and Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00; Sunday: 12:00 – 22:30. Food is served from 12:00 - 14:30 and 17:30 - 21:00.
Is there parking available? Yes, there is private parking available for guests.

The Cornish Arms: A historic journey through Tavistock's acclaimed gastropub scene.

Nestled in the charming town of Tavistock, Devon, The Cornish Arms stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and historic charm. Established in 2013, this gastropub has quickly risen to prominence, becoming synonymous with top-tier dining and warm hospitality. Its very name pays homage to its roots as the last coaching inn before Cornwall, anchoring it deeply in local history.

A timeline of achievement and recognition

The Cornish Arms' journey is marked by consistent accolades that underscore its dedication to quality and innovation. Just a year after opening, in 2014, it proudly earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a testament to its exceptional food at great value. In 2016, its culinary prowess was further recognized as it became one of six national finalists for Best Food Pub in the prestigious Great British Pub Awards.

2013: The Cornish Arms opened in Tavistock.
2014: Awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
2016: Named as one of six national finalists for Best Food Pub in the Great British Pub Awards.
2024: Ranked number 2 in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list.
2025: Chef John Hooker awarded Chef of the Year in the Top 50 Gastropubs awards.

A dining experience rooted in tradition and excellence

Beyond its accolades, The Cornish Arms offers guests a unique blend of vintage-style rooms and a welcoming gastropub atmosphere, complete with a delightful beer garden. This combination reflects its commitment not only to exceptional food but also to comfort and a memorable stay. Its reputation as a true foodie destination in Devon is well earned, with both locals and travelers drawn to its inviting ambiance and top-quality service.

Whether you are a local resident or a trend-conscious traveler exploring Tavistock, The Cornish Arms represents a perfect fusion of history, hospitality, and culinary artistry. Its story from a humble coaching inn landmark to a nationally recognized gastropub makes it a must-visit stop on any Devon itinerary.

The Cornish Arms in Tavistock: A balanced review of a charming gastro pub and lodging destination in Devon, UK.

Nestled on West Street in the historic market town of Tavistock, Devon, The Cornish Arms offers a delightful combination of a traditional British gastro pub with inviting lodging options. This establishment is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for travelers seeking comfort, excellent food, and a genuine local experience.

Exquisite dining with local flair

The Cornish Arms consistently impresses with its menu of high-quality, flavorful dishes made from local and seasonal ingredients. Guests often praise the carefully balanced flavors, like the perfectly cooked steaks, skillfully prepared roasts, and inventive sauces. The gastropub's food stands out as some of the best in the region, drawing foodies who appreciate refined, yet hearty British cuisine.

Comfortable lodging and pet-friendly hospitality

The inn's rooms are thoughtfully decorated with muted tones and quality furnishings, offering a relaxing ambiance for overnight guests. Travelers appreciate the attention to detail such as locally made essential oil toiletries and spotless cleanliness. Moreover, the venue warmly welcomes small dogs, providing a rare and refreshing level of pet-friendly accommodation without the typical cheap or overlooked amenities.

Areas for improvement

While the dining experience is highly praised, some visitors have noted that portion sizes can seem small relative to the price, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious guests. Additionally, occasional service inconsistencies have been reported, with some diners feeling neglected during busy periods. For lodging guests, those staying in rooms facing West Street might encounter street noise, which could impact light sleepers.

Key highlights and considerations

Pros: High-quality, locally sourced dishes with exceptional flavors.
Pros: Warm and welcoming atmosphere with attentive staff.
Pros: Comfortable, well-appointed rooms with a unique pet-friendly policy.
Cons: Portion sizes may not satisfy all guests and prices can be on the higher side.
Cons: Service can sometimes be inconsistent, especially during busy times.
Cons: Rooms facing West Street may experience some noise from traffic.