The London Inn, Padstow

An attractive pub in the heart of Padstow, it seems to be competing with the Golden Lion just up the road to see who can get the best display of hanging baskets at the front of the pub, although I think the Golden Lion probably just edges it. Although there is no outside seating at the front of the pub, they have built some elevated decking at the rear which is a pleasant enough spot and a bit of a sun trap. There is also a large umbrella with infra-red heaters for the more inclement weather. It has a traditional interior with a red and white colour scheme, a black floor worn smooth over the years, black beams on the ceiling and the usual mass of nautical attributes that most pubs around these parts seem to sport such as a ship’s wheel and of course a display of different knots in a glass case. To the rear was an area that looked to be slightly more geared up for dining, with some exposed stone wall at the rear. A plasma down at the end of the bar was showing the football. Beers on tap were all from St. Austell with their Tribute, HSD and Proper Job. A fourth pump had run out, but looked as though it may have been Dartmoor Best. Ciders were Strongbow and a very pleasant Cornish Rattler. We didn’t eat on this occasion, but noticed a number of fish options on the specials board.