Facebook Tripadvisor

welcome to
the three pilchards

Oldest Pub in The Glorious Cornish Seaside Village of Polperro

check our menu

Situated On The Quay The Pilchards Takes Its Name From The Catch That Made Polperro A Hub Of Vibrant Activity In Years Gone By.

The Three Pilchards is a welcoming, family-friendly and very dog-friendly pub where great food, warm hospitality, and a relaxed atmosphere come together. Whether you’re visiting on holiday or you’re a local looking for your favourite spot, our aim is simple: to create a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Dogs are always welcome, making it the perfect stop for walkers and their four-legged companions.
 
In the summer months, you can enjoy lunch or a drink in our rooftop Harbour View Beer Garden, taking in wonderful views of the village while relaxing in the fresh air. During the winter, our cosy log fire provides the perfect setting to warm up, unwind, and enjoy the comfortable atmosphere that makes The Pilchards so special.
We take pride in supporting local producers and suppliers wherever possible. Our menu features quality ingredients sourced from local businesses, and behind the bar you’ll find a carefully selected range of local beers, locally produced spirits, wines, and classic favourites.
 
Our friendly and helpful team are always on hand to make sure you feel welcome and well looked after, whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink, a relaxed meal, or a long catch-up with friends.
 
So don’t just visit the website—come and experience The Pilchards for yourself and say hello at the bar.

OUR HISTORY

Built in the early 16th century, the Three Pilchards’ history is a little murky. However, the village has always been full of rumour and intrigue (as every little Cornish village is) about this beautiful little pub. Much of its history is speculation, but that only adds to the charm…

The below information is not all substantiated – so think of it what you will – and make your mind up for yourself…

It is said that the pub itself relates to the rich fishing history of the village and harbour, and “The Three Pilchards” derived from three pilchard factories in the village. Pilchards were caught in abundance and, at the time, brought a lot of prosperity to the village. Two Italian brothers settled in Polperro and exported pilchards to their home country of Italy. Some locals believe the Italian brothers inspired the name of the pub; it was said that when the brothers first arrived, they stayed at the pub and wanted to try pilchards from each of the three factories to determine the best ones to take home.

Smuggling is also part of the rich history of Polperro’s harbour. One of the Three Pilchards’ landlords, Charles Jolliff, in the 19th century was rumoured to have sold contraband liquor over the bar of the Three Pilchards. It was said that if locals saw his mare saddled outside, then it was likely he would have a new shipment of smuggled goods to purchase, such as tea, gin, brandy and tobacco from across the Channel Islands.

Today the harbour is still fully functioning, though pilchards are rare; the main catch is seasonal, and today the catch can include lemon sole, monkfish, gurnard, bass, mackerel, pollock, cod, haddock, squid and much, much more! The harbour is unique as it is owned and maintained by the village itself, which keeps the traditions of the village alive and adds to the rich community in Polperro.