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Pub
3 star

The Dolphin Tavern

Quay Street, by the harbour · Inn

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Photo: Martin Harvey

A sixteenth-century harbourside inn with rooms above the bar, said to be where tobacco was first smoked in England.

Photos

Photos via Google

About The Dolphin Tavern

The Dolphin Tavern occupies a sixteenth-century building on Quay Street, right by Penzance harbour, with a history stretching back to the Armada era, when it served as a recruiting post for Cornishmen heading off to fight, and further still to a claimed connection with Sir Walter Raleigh and the first pipe of tobacco smoked in England.

The rooms upstairs are simpler than at the town's boutique hotels, but comfortable and good value, and staying above a working harbourside pub has an atmosphere all of its own, particularly with a proper local ale in hand downstairs after a day on the coast path. Food leans towards hearty pub classics alongside daily specials built around the local catch.

Its location, a few steps from the harbour and Scillonian ferry terminal, makes it a genuinely convenient and characterful base for anyone travelling on to the Isles of Scilly or exploring Penzance's older waterfront streets.

Reception hours

Monday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Tuesday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What guests say

Charles Wils

I recently visited the Dolphin Tavern while spending time with relatives, and we had a wonderful experience. The food was very good, with generous portions and plenty of flavour. The service was excellent throughout—friendly, attentive, and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The atmosphere was relaxed and enjoyable, making it the perfect place to catch up with family over a great meal. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Dolphin Tavern to anyone looking for good food, excellent service, and a welcoming pub. I’ll certainly be back the next time I’m visiting my relatives. I cannot stop thinking about this place! Amazing!

a month ago · via Google

Lorna

We stayed here as part of a walking journey. It was really fabulous. I would describe it as British hospitality at its best. All of the staff were so personable and kind and helpful. The food was excellent and even the coffee at breakfast (which can be variable in pubs sometimes). The room was really clean and well laid out with everything we needed for our stay and we were lucky enough to have a view of the sea and the comings and gojngs in the street below. Really loved it here and recommend it highly

2 months ago · via Google

Diwash Karki

It was a nice evening and I wanted to spend some quality time by myself. Google AI recommended Dolphin Tavern, so I thought I'd give it a visit. I walked in and immediately felt like I was the only Asian guy in there on his own. No big deal though, I'm used to soloing my evenings and having a good time with myself. I went to the bar, ordered a drink, got served, and found a seat. After a while I felt a bit hungry, looked through the menu, picked something, and went back to the bar to order food. The guy there said, "I don't think we can feed you in about 35 minutes." Haha, freaking hell. The way he said that already made me feel like I wasn't particularly welcome. But honestly, I ignored it because I wasn't there looking for anyone's approval. I know my own standards and capabilities, and I was there to enjoy my evening. The tall long legged girl who seemed to be in charge was horrific. Throughout my stay, I noticed her being, generally giving off the vibe that she wanted me to hurry up, finish my drinks, and leave. It genuinely felt like she was trying to rush me out the whole time. Though, I'll be honest, she was hot as hell. As a tall guy myself, I've always had a thing for long legged giraffes. Doesn't change the fact that she was rude though. In the end, I ordered my drinks, enjoyed my own company, and had a decent enough evening despite the atmosphere. One massive shout out to the lad who was a server. I didn't catch his name, but he was genuinely friendly and welcoming. I tipped him before leaving because he was the only person there who made me feel like I was at home. Thanks, mate. You turned what could have been a completely negative experience into something a bit better. Overall, not a great experience. But that's life. Not everywhere you go is going to be easy, and sometimes as an Asian guy in England you do notice when you're not exactly made to feel part of the scene. Still, respect to the friendly lad. You're the reason this review isn't one star.

a month ago · via Google

Yarys

The Dolphin Tavern is one of Penzance's oldest and most historic pubs, dating back to 1585. Located beside the harbour, it is famous for its connections to Sir John Hawkins, who recruited sailors here before the Spanish Armada, and to Sir Walter Raleigh, who is said to have smoked one of the first pipes of tobacco in England on the premises. Over the centuries it also served as a courtroom and has gained a reputation for its ghost stories. The interior is full of charming historic details that make this place truly special and well worth exploring. The staff were warm and welcoming, and both the food and desserts were absolutely delicious. A wonderful place to experience a piece of Cornwall's history while enjoying excellent hospitality.

a month ago · via Google

See all reviews on Google →

People say this pub offers delicious and generous portions of food, including excellent fish and chips, and a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options. They also highlight the friendly, attentive, and welcoming staff, who provide great service. Guests mention the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with many appreciating its historic character.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
The Dolphin Tavern, Quay Street, Penzance, TR18 4BD Get directions
Property type
Inn
Location
Quay Street, by the harbour
Star rating
3 star
Guest score
8.1 / 10 (310 reviews)
Prices from
£95 per night
Good for children
Yes
Good for groups
Yes
Booking required
Yes
Destination
Penzance