The Chain Locker, Falmouth

Camra GBG 2024 entry and one of the oldest buildings in Falmouth. Low ceiling ground floor with a long bar serving lots of St Austell Brews, including the lesser spotted Hicks and the never spotted (by me) red sky at night. Nautical nick nacks nailed to the ceiling. Real fires making a homely feel. So why the low score. I must be getting old but a pint and a half of coke should not cost £8.55.

Official site of The Chain Locker - chainlockerfalmouth.co.uk

Official site of The Chain Locker - chainlockerfalmouth.co.uk

The Chain Locker is one of 4 pubs overlooking Custom House Quay. This is a St Austell pub stocking just Tribute, Proper Job & Hicks for real ales. I opted for the Healey's Rattler Strawberry & Lime on draught. The interior feels quite traditional with low beamed ceiling and plenty of nautical memorabilia to peruse. Dogs and families are welcome. We entered from the quayside. Although the proper entrance appears to be on Quay Street.

Decent enough old pub that resists being too much of a tourist trap, at least in the main downstairs bar. Nautical and proper pub decor and a decent atmosphere, actually quite rowdy though it was mostly filled with groups looking for food. Four St Austell ales and a fine pint of Trelawny was served by a friendly barmaid. Loses a point for the totally unfitting contemporary R&B/dance music, but I felt very cosy in here.

The interior is well described below, though much of the Summer custom is at outside tables on the large tarmac square adjacent, which feels like a car park but does overlook the harbour. The outside was crowded, noisy and smokey, so we were very pleased to find a table inside. The staff were pleasant and helpful, even asking whether we were CAMRA members so they could give us discount. Treats and drinks were offered to dogs. Food was excellent if a little pricey. Ales on were Bath Summer’s Hare, Tribute, Proper Job, Trelawny and Betty Stoggs, all in perfect condition. Definitely worth a visit.