The Punch Bowl Inn, Lanreath

Image: © Kate Jewell Taken: 13 May 2007

The oldest part of the premises dates from the 13th century but the main part of the inn is 15th century. There are thick walls, flagstone floors, beams and medieval panelling. Cornwall is famous for its myths and legends, each town and village laying claim to at least one fantastic story and Lanreath is no exception. Here we have the tale of a wild black cockerel believed to be the angry soul of an old rector of the parish. One night his guest for dinner was the new young curate who had unfortunately fallen in love with the rector's young and beautiful wife. On his way to the cellar to get another bottle of wine the rector fell to his death down the stairs. Did he fall or was he pushed? We'll never know, but the next day a large black cockerel suddenly appeared and began attacking everyone in sight. At last the angry bird flew in through the window of The Punch Bowl Inn and straight into the clome oven. The quick thinking kitchen maid shut him inside and a mason was called to cement it up for ever.

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