The best things to do in Restronguet

Restronguet Passage, tucked along the west side of Restronguet Creek, has a name that whispers of ancient Cornish roots. Locals pronounce it ‘Restrongit,’ and its old Cornish meaning is likely ‘a deep valley with a promontory. Weir Point is a secluded pebble beach which may have originally been the site of a type of fish trap known as a weir.  The Restronguet Sailing Club was formed here in 1933 and kept the name when it moved to Mylor Harbour.  The Club at its new site was where Olympian, Sir Ben Ainslie, first learned to sail and a ‘golden post-box’ commemorating his 2012 success is set into the Pandora Inn’s wall. Ben in fact grew up just along the footpath from Morning Star at a house called Delta Cottage.

Up the footpath from Restronguet Passage you will spy Morning Star, a lovingly restored fisherman’s cottage overlooking the water. To get to the cottage your adventure begins at Weir Point, where you can park your car on the quiet roadside. One unique feature of Morning Star is that access is a short walk across a small beach and along a footpath, making it a quiet place to stay.

Indulge in Local Delights at The Pandora Inn

Cornwall is renowned for its food, especially seafood, and Restronguet is no exception. A must visit spot is the historic Pandora Inn, a 13th-century pub perched on the edge of Restronguet Creek. The pub, named after HMS Pandora, which was sent to capture the mutineers from The Bounty, boasts a rich history and a picturesque setting. The inn is only a short walk from Morning Star along the tree lined footpath that hugs the creek. 

The Pandora Inn offers a comforting atmosphere and serves up traditional Cornish fare, including fresh seafood, cream teas, and hearty pies. The thatched roof and flagstone floors give this place real character, adding to its spectacular setting on the edge of the river. The kitchen uses fresh, local and seasonal produce while behind the bar you will find an extensive wine list and traditional real ales from St Austell Brewery. Whether you’re enjoying a full meal or simply sipping a pint of local ale on the floating pontoon, this pub is a marvellous place to watch the world go by. It was even named as one of the best UK waterside pubs by the Guardian.  Find out more

Exploring Water Sports and Adventure at Mylor Boat Hire

Restronguet is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering plenty of opportunities to get out on or in the water. Just a 10-minute drive away, Mylor Boat Hire has everything you need for an active holiday in Cornwall, they’ll even deliver your craft to your private jetty. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or an absolute beginner, Mylor offers activities ranging from sailing and kayaking, to windsurfing and snorkelling. Kayaking and paddleboarding are both wonderful ways to explore the estuary at your own pace. For a fun and memorable waterside experience during your holiday, you can easily hire a boat, tender, kayak, or paddleboard from Mylor Boat Hire. They deliver directly to your cottage, making it incredibly convenient. Plus, no prior experience is needed, they will do a full handover with you and provide support during your stay. 

The creek’s calm waters are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. If you’ve been thinking about giving paddle boarding a try, go for it—it’s easier than it looks! And if standing up feels a bit daunting, sitting or kneeling on your board is just as enjoyable. As you glide across the water, you’ll be treated to an entirely different view of the creek and its wildlife. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a curious seal popping up to say hello! Discover more about Mylor Boat Hire

On Foot: Exploring Restronguet’s Scenic Trails

Another way to experience Restronguet is on foot.  Morning Star sits on a footpath that winds north east, along the river to the Pandora Inn, or you can head south west towards Mylor, for about an hour, where you’ll find a delightful harbour, café and yoga/wellness studio. Please note that this walk does include some roads.  

Nearby, you can also embark on the famous South West Coast Path, which runs close to Restronguet, offering a variety of routes and stunning coastal views. One popular section is the walk from Mylor Harbour to Flushing. This relatively easy route provides a mix of scenic river views, quiet countryside and beautiful houses. When facing Mylor Harbour, head right and follow the coastal path marked ‘Footpath to Flushing’. Along the way, you’ll pass secluded coves and walk through ancient woodlands. 

The route also offers a glimpse into local history, passing old stone hedges and historic landmarks. One highlight is the Trefusis estate, home to the Trefusis family since the 13th century, with sweeping views of Carrick Roads, St. Mawes Castle, and Falmouth across the water. You might even see Fal Oysters, who continue to harvest native oysters from its famous oyster beds that have been used for centuries.  A fantastic tool for walking routes in the county is iwalk Cornwall which has over 300 circular walks to try. 

Exploring Further Afield: Falmouth and Beyond

While Restronguet offers plenty of activities, it’s also close to some of Cornwall’s most popular attractions. A short drive will take you to Falmouth, a vibrant town rich in maritime history, art, and culture. Spend a morning exploring the National Maritime Museum, where interactive exhibits and stunning harbour views offer fascinating insights into Cornwall’s seafaring past. 

Falmouth’s bustling streets are filled with charming cafés and artisan shops, making it the ultimate place to grab a bite to eat and find a fabulous gift to take home for a loved one. We’ve rounded up our favourite independent shops in Falmouth in a previous blog post if you’re looking for some inspiration. If you’re in the mood for a true Cornish lunch, try a fresh Lobster roll or crab sandwich from one of the many lunch spots. Falmouth is also home to several art galleries, where you can browse works by local artists and find handmade pieces that capture the essence of Cornwall. Read our guide for a selection of our favourite things to do in Falmouth town centre. 

Before leaving Falmouth, don’t miss Pendennis Castle, a magnificent Tudor fortress with breathtaking views of the coastline. This historic site, cared for by English Heritage, offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about Cornwall’s past while enjoying a peaceful stroll through its grounds.