THE PIG at Harlyn Bay - Cornwall

Ciara was fantastic, knew the menu and the building’s history inside out, and even let us have a look into the kitchen. I really liked the relaxed service with attention to detail. The food was exquisite, locally sourced and imaginative, and choosing a dish was a dilemma. The grand building, laid-back reception and all its quirks and character made for a very appealing place. I’d happily return.

Just reviewing the restaurant: the food was absolutely brilliant, the best we had on our Cornwall trip, though also the priciest. The menu was local and amazing, and service was great. The venue and grounds are breathtaking. We’ll definitely come back for a full weekend stay.

We had a lovely lunch on New Year’s Eve, with several drinks, a dessert wine and a few extras. One little ham nibble, Italian in style, was already delicious, but a simple, perfect pickle of onion and carrot turned it into a masterful bit of cooking. The food is expensive, though not more than seems fair. I wasn’t staying at the hotel, but was surprised some guests would need to go outside for a campsite-style shower. The Pig at Harlyn Bay is exquisite in its setting, cosy atmosphere and attention to detail. The real fires, sofas, wine list and cocktails all add to the feel, as do the cooking, market garden, ecological credentials and competent young staff. There are lovely walks down to the popular beach and beyond. We didn’t stay overnight. Overall, The Pig is fine and good. Long live The Pig.

Mabel’s kitchen garden tour was brilliant. The garden is beautiful, and she knew so much about all the interesting plants. We learned a lot, then had lovely coffee and chocolate beetroot cake in the gardens. Highly recommend it!