The World Famous Admiral Benbow in Penzance, Cornwall houses a fascinating collection of wreckage and maritime artefacts rescued from numerous shipwrecked vessels which foundered on the Cornish coast during the last 400 years. Many of its treasures are incorporated into the fabric of the building. The Captain’s Cabin restaurant is an fascinating recreation of a deck from a period ship with its fine stern plate from a Portuguese Man O’ War. The Lady Hamilton lounge is home to a magnificent cannon and several rescued ships figureheads. The upstairs bars have extensive views over Penzance harbour towards St Michael’s Mount.

One of the oldest drinking houses in Penzance, The Admiral Benbow has been around since the 17th Century. Legend has it Robert Louis Stevenson visited Penzance in 1880 afer travelling in America. He had formulated an idea for a book he wanted to call Treasure Island but had yet to settle on the starting point for the story. A visit to the Benbow, which was at that time an illegal drinking den and home to numerous smugglers, is said to have inspired him further and as a nod to the pub, he included the name in his story, Treasure Island which first appeared in 1881. The pub has been popular with more recent folk, playing host to many famous visitors, including Gregory Peck, the Rolling Stones and recently, celebrity chef Rick Stein who filmed a segment for his TV series on Cornwall here.

Today The Admiral Benbow serves a variety of beers, wines and spirits including an excellent selection of Cornish ales and fine wines from across the world.

The restaurant has a full menu offering a variety of dishes including local seafood. Vegetarian diners are well catered for. Daily specials are available.