The Basset Arms, Portreath - 15/11/25.

Written By Jake .

I was a bit sceptical before booking this place, I’d never heard of it, and it’s tucked away in the quiet village of Portreath. But having just been renovated by Carbis Bay, and seeing the fantastic photos, I thought, why not? Let me tell you: it did not disappoint.

The pub has a great car park, and upon entering, we were greeted by the inviting smell of classic hearty pub food. Honestly, it might be the nicest interior I’ve seen. The renovation is immaculate, everything done to the highest standard, and there were plenty of locals enjoying a drink. A wonderful staff member checked us in and showed us to our room, which was perfect: beautifully designed, spotless, and with everything you could want. The rainfall shower was powerful, an underrated detail, but a personal pet hate if it isn’t strong enough, but this one was brilliant.

After settling in, we headed downstairs. The games room/bar is excellent, with a dartboard, pool table, and live sport on Sky Sports and TNT. We grabbed a drink before dinner. I had a Guinness (£6.80) which was poured perfectly, creamy, and spot-on in taste, so good I had four more. My partner tried a Japanese lager called Sapporo (£7) which was fantastic: dry like Asahi but fuller and richer. These drinks were expensive yes, but that is life these days.

After a quick game of pool, we were seated for dinner. The table layout and decor were exceptional, and the attentive staff member took our order. I had the gammon (£18), and my partner had the pie (£20). Both dishes were incredible. The gammon was thick-cut, with chips, an egg, mushrooms, salad, vine tomatoes, and sauce included in the price. Perfectly cooked, hot, generous portions. I can’t wait to have it again. The pie was proper: full-bodied with a real base and top, not just a puff pastry lid, and it was amazing. I want to also add how bright the atmosphere was, people alike enjoying a drink or a meal it was great. We finished the night with a few more drinks and some darts before a great night’s sleep.

Morning brought the fresh sea air through the window, and breakfast was next. Honestly, the breakfast here is next-level, ridiculously impressive. With only three rooms in the B&B, the experience is personal and relaxed. We started with drinks, then some warm pan au chocolates and berry yoghurt granola, the pan au chocolates were immense. For mains, I the biggest breakfast on offer, cooked immaculately and presented beautifully. See for yourself in the pictures. Afterward, we walked it off on Portreath beach before checking out and heading to Carbis Bay for the day.

Honestly, I cannot recommend this place enough, it’s a real hidden gem and if you’re travelling down In Cornwall you have to give this place a go, they’ve got brilliant deals on always and you will not be disappointed. I can’t wait to go back..

Ratings:

  • Service: 5/5

  • Food: 5/5

  • Room: 5/5

  • Cleanliness: 5/5

  • Guinness: 4.3/5

Jake .