The Victoria Inn, Salcombe

An attractive pub in the heart of Salcombe, it offers extensive, terraced gardens and a pleasant ambience although there does seem to be quite an emphasis on food to the detriment of punters who may just want a pint. The main bar at the front has some attractive giant flagstones on the floor, mustard colour paintwork and dark red/maroon wood panelling on the lower part of the walls. There was a brick fire-place at each end, one with black painted bricks, and each containing a wood burning stove. A number of black beans on the ceiling and a couple of red leather sofa’s completed the cosy feel and there were various nautical pictures on the wall as well as other nautical artefacts such as a ship’s lantern and wheel. A small bar off to the right was perhaps slightly less food focused, but there were still a number of people eating here. There was also a separate dining room off to the left. The gardens at the back are on three levels and extend back a considerable distance, much further than would be expected from looking at the front of the pub and the topmost level offers glimpses of the sea. There is also a kid’s climbing frame. The menu was extensive and most of the mains were priced at around the £10 - £12 mark. There was also a fish specials board. We had Beer battered cod with chips, minted mushy peas and homemade tartare sauce and a Double baked pork belly, both of which were very good. Staff were helpful and friendly. Beers on tap were all from St. Austell’s, with their Trelawney, Proper Job, Tribute and Dartmoor Best. Ciders were Strongbow and Cornish Rattler, along with a couple of other Rattler derivatives such as pear and berry.

Victoria Inn pages at the St Austell brewery site - www.staustellbrewery.co.uk

Victoria Inn pages at the St Austell brewery site - www.staustellbrewery.co.uk

Official site of the Victoria Inn pub in Salcombe, includes menus and wine list - www.victoriainn-salcombe.co.uk