The Yacht Inn, Penzance

Official site of the Yacht Inn - www.theyachtinnpenzance.co.uk

Lovely Art Deco pub that claims a prominent position opposite the open air Jubilee Pool and sea views. The inside of the pub is large and open plan, which also catches the sunshine for long periods of the day, so ideal for an afternoon or mid-evening drink during the summer as there's a nice airy feel. Some of the original Art Deco touches remain, which is nice. The beer range inside was fair - I had an excellent St Austell Proper Job (the other choices I believe were Tribute and Bass). It's not often I'd disagree with Mr B but I thought that the atmosphere here on my visit was excellent - there were plenty of people in and there was a lot of chat, especially when Pass the Pigs came out. Whether he was unlucky or I was just lucky I guess will have to be decided by a return visit at some point. Certainly it's a little more 'nice' than some of its nearby competitors. I would certainly recommend popping in here for a beer or two if in town, for the architecture and views if nothing else.

Built in 1936, this art deco pub is the third in line to be built on this prominent part of the sea front between the harbour and the promenade. Along with the imposing Seaman's Mission building next door, the sight of the Yacht is probably a welcoming landmark that greets many a returning voyager and fisherman. The interior is quite open with a spacious main bar, a dining area off to the left and a smaller room to the rear. A raised area in the main bar has a wasted blocked fireplace and cheap looking display cabinet containing various Water Polo trophies (there is a large art deco open air swimming pool opposite the pub which is used for polo in the summer months). There is an underplayed nautical theme but not actually a great deal that catches the eye. There is also a minimal choice on the ale front – 5 handpumps with Tribute on2, Bass on 2 and 1 unused. Quality was fine and the prices quite reasonable (we had been told elsewhere that this place was expensive but didn't find this to be the case). The pub was rarely busy during the week we stayed in Penzance (our apartment was in the Seaman's Mission next door) and would probably used the place a bit more if it had shown a bit more character and atmosphere. As it was, most people seemed to be there for meals and whilst it was a friendly enough place, the main source of entertainment came from the pub cat that would occasionally venture from its bastket on the window sill. If you just want a quiet, peaceful pint in sedate surroundings you won't go far wrong here but for those looking for a bit more atmosphere, there are plenty of other options.