First look inside the Charlestown Pier House pub destroyed by fire

An iconic harbor pub which was badly damaged in a fire has risen from the ashes with a brand new look. Pier House in Charlestown, near St Austell, has been closed for major restoration since late last year following a devastating fire in January 2023.

St Austell Brewery, which owns the pub, said the multi-million pound refurbishment was not only delicate but added to the original building. A spokesman for the brewery said sensitive renovations had been underway since the autumn to restore the pub to its former glory, with the new look unveiled today (Friday June 28) when it finally reopened to the public.

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She said the bar area had been opened up to provide a panoramic view of the iconic 18th century Georgian harbour. Meanwhile, the dining area has been decked out in whimsical furnishings, from lobster lights to a boat hanging from the ceiling.

There are plenty of nods to the pub’s harborside location. The bar has been finished with wooden “grains” that mimic the interior of tall ships, which can be seen from most of the unit’s windows.

The spokeswoman added: “The whole feel of the pub has an understated, coastal-inspired opulence, from its rich green textures and neutral tones to the new vaulted ceiling in the dining area. The building’s original features have also been sensitively exposed, including beams and beams in many of the bedrooms and common areas.

“Each of the 23 new bedrooms is unique, including cozy cabin rooms and some with their own mezzanines and daybeds to relax and take in the stunning sea views from sunrise to sunset.”

Paul Harvey, managing director of Pier House, added: “This refurbishment project has been totally transformative. It’s amazing to see Pier House looking better than ever. We have kept our old charm while taking the pub to a new level of ambience.

“We have sensitively shown the history of the building, showing the grandeur of the structure and how it has been used over the years. We can’t wait to get everyone back tomorrow to experience it for themselves.”