New owners have arrived at The Old Ferry Inn in Bodinnick – which has changed hands following a deal brokered by Colliers International.
The quintessentially Cornish former coaching inn - which has been providing bed and board for travellers on the old London to Penzance road for more than 400 years - has been bought by successful businessman and hospitality newcomer Robert Seabourne and partner Karen Gardner, a classically trained chef, off a guide price of £1.2 million.
Bob, who worked in clothing and packaging before moving in to the hospitality sector said: “I’ve been visiting Cornwall since I was a boy and fell in love with Bodinnick around six years ago.
“The Old Ferry Inn is a lovely old lady who has suffered from a lack of investment over recent years, and is in need of a fair bit of TLC. The aim is evolution, not revolution: everything changes, yet nothing changes!
“We believe that establishing links with local businesses and charitable organisations like the Royal National Lifeboat Institution will be of paramount importance to the long-term success of the business.”
Ed Jefferson from Colliers International believes there is plenty of scope for Bob and Karen to take business forward at the Old Ferry Inn, which has 12 letting rooms and overlooks the busy Bodinnick to Fowey ferry and also Ferryside, the family home of Cornish writer Daphne du Maurier.
He said: “The present Inn dates back to the 17th century and features a host of traditional features including a wood burner and stone slate floor. The popular River Room has fantastic river views over Fowey and the village of Polruan.
“The Old Ferry also boasts south-facing terraces which have the same outstanding views and are a real sun trap. The characterful bar is packed with photographs, historical artefacts and memorabilia.”
He added: “It’s great to see the locals have welcomed Bob and Karen with open arms.
“The Old Ferry Inn was sold by husband and wife teams Pascal and Penny Rivault and David and Amanda Lewis - Pascal and Penny are now looking to downsize whilst David and Amanda wish to retire.”
