As the UK embraces the chill of autumn, many are seeking out the comfort of cosy pubs with roaring log fires and a welcoming atmosphere. Among the top spots to enjoy these delights is a pub in Cornwall that has garnered rave reviews online.

The Gurnard’s Head, nestled between St Ives and St Just, stands out among the thousands of pubs across the country known for their ‘excellent’ log fires and ambience. This country inn boasts fantastic views of the sea and moorland, providing a ‘cosy refuge from the elements’ with log fires at each end of the bar and a friendly atmosphere, reports Cornwall Live.

A statement on the pub’s website reads: “This is The Gurnard’s Head, a dining pub with rooms on Cornwall’s Atlantic coast between St Ives and St Just, near the Minack Theatre, Zennor, Penzance and Newlyn. We want The Gurnard’s Head to be an inn that returns you momentarily to the slower pace of life that so many of us yearn for.

“Time spent in this part of the world will unwind you as you enjoy one of the country’s most dramatic coastlines, one that has inspired artists and walkers for centuries… Switch off in the soulful embrace of one of Britain’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, a landscape which has changed little over centuries.”

Regarding cuisine, it adds: “Our short, fresh and seasonal menu changes every day according to what is brought to our back door or what our chefs feel is at its seasonal best. In winter you might get Fish Soup with Rouille or in summer, a Ceviche of Sea Bass alongside leaf salads foraged by Fat Hen… Food that you want to eat, that is strong in flavour and spirited, cooked beautifully and ingredients sourced locally.”

On TripAdvisor, countless customers have posted brilliant five-star reviews, achieving an average rating of 4.3 out of five. Numerous visitors have praised the “delicious” cuisine, the “comforting” ambience, and the “roaring” log fire and declared it ‘one of the finest places they’ve experienced’.

One visitor commented: “Honestly, I would score this 100/100. We arrived after a long, cold walk, fantasising about a roaring fire, a friendly welcome and a fine pint of ale, and that is exactly what we got. We had booked for lunch and it was spectacular. Delicious soup, sweet potato fritters were out of this world, and the sticky parsnip pudding was like a dream.”

Another said: “Great place for comfort-loving foodies! What a unique and special place! This restaurant with rooms was all that we’d hoped it would be.”

A third wrote: “This is by far the best pub we have stayed in so far!” A fourth confirmed: “Certainly one if not the best place to stay in the area. It’s difficult to fault.”

Someone else said: “Why haven’t we been before? Dogs are welcome everywhere, and there is a delicious original menu for dinner and breakfast. There are so many nice touches. Comfy beds in warm rooms. Friendly, efficient staff, roaring fires, and a well-stocked bar with an interesting cocktail selection. Views front and back stunning, walks from the front door, and St Ives 5 miles down the road. Oh yes, the bus goes regularly past as well.”

Another wrote: “The atmosphere was just perfect, the warmth of the fire, as well as low lighting and stone floors, took you back to the days of old. The menu choice was also very good, not too large, the monkfish scampi and pigs cheek starters are a must, as well as the Pork belly and hake chowder, which was to die for. If you do get room to make the pudding, the sticky toffee pudding and Cornish cheeses did not disappoint.”

Despite a handful of critical reviews, the overwhelming majority remain glowing. One delighted guest said: “We called into The Gurnard’s Head late this morning with the intention of just having a coffee, but the friendly greeting and heavenly smells emanating from the kitchen convinced us to stay for lunch. And what a good decision it was!”

Discussing the cuisine, one diner said: “Don’t think you can just walk into The Gurnard’s ahead and get a table for lunch. Even in the first week of November, it was fully booked and with good reason: the food was delicious and the staff were warm and welcoming.”

Another shared: “Such a memorable stay! Lovely staff, beautiful rooms and excellent food. The perfect base for walking along the coast, exploring the surrounding villages and relaxing around the fire. Would highly recommend to all – solo travellers, couples, families, dog lovers and hikers alike.”

One more put: “Fantastic Sunday lunch. A wonderfully friendly and welcoming pub with great food. We hiked here through rain and hail from St ives to get to the pub, but with lovely ales, open fires and fantastic food, it was the perfect place to recover and recharge. The staff were super friendly and the pub has brilliant views of the coastline.”