Story
History of the golden lion
The Golden Lion is the oldest remaining pub in Padstow, it’s a grade II listed building first mentioned in 1783. Steeped in history, it was built as a public house with its own malt house at the rear, it was also used as a venue for the auctioning of boats and goods, in November 1784 the good Brigantine Resolution, an 80 tonne French built boat was sold as was six tons of Spanish wool in 1816 and in 1819 540 barrels of prime Scotch herrings. An important building within the community.
Over the years the ‘Lion’, as it is affectionately known, has been added too depending on the era, period features had been covered over, doors bricked up and
clone ovens removed as progress, taste and needs changed. Renovating and refurbishing the building has revealed some of its history, bringing it back to its former self.
The front bar boasts an original parquet hard wood floor, low ceilings and wooden beams, repurposed ship masts. Un-even floors, nooks and cranny’s make this
building a charming slice of history.
The ‘Lion’ is the stable of the ‘Old Oss’, on the 1 st May it is at the centre of the May Day celebrations, music, singing, and dancing emerge from the front door at 10am marking the arrival of summer.
The ‘Lion’ has been in the Rickard family for nearly 40 years, Alec and Lorrainne for the first 20 years then Martin, their son, and his wife Sarah took over the business in
2005.
There has been quite a lot of change over the last 19 years, the food has evolved from basket meals and steaks to a more varied and refined menu. Sunday lunch has
always proved popular with locals and visitors alike, receiving great reviews, making into the ‘Times’ TWICE!! for being the best place for a Sunday roast. Alex Clark joined the team 7 years ago as head chef and put us firmly on the culinary map.
The bar offers a wide selection of local beers lagers and ciders. There is also a good cross section of wines.
Other changes included the refurbishment of the 3 bed and breakfast rooms. Sarah has a passion for interiors, which can be seen in the decoration of the rooms, she
has a love of wallpaper!!
We pride ourselves on providing a family friendly environment where you can enjoy good food and drink, at a reasonable price in a welcoming environment, where we try to accommodate everyone’s needs.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Martin and Sarah.