Pandora Inn pub reopens after huge refurb

A popular Cornish riverside pub with a unique feature will welcome customers again just in time for Mother's Day. The Pandora Inn has been given a fresh new look to mark its reopening - and it's now being run by two friends who worked there 15 years ago. Tom Milby and John Calland have joined forces to take on the 13 century pub on the bank of the Restronguet Creek in Mylor between and .

The pub - which made headlines in 2011 after it was almost destroyed in a devastating fire - is also known for its on-the-water pontoon beer garden, doubling up as a space to arrive by and moor up kayaks and boats. Tom and John share a long history, having worked at the Pandora Inn together more than a decade ago. John was also instrumental in Tom’s success as a chef, having encouraged him into the kitchen during their five years together at the pub.



John is returning to take up the same role as before in front of house. While the pub was closed, owner Brewery rethatched parts of the roof and updated the interior. It says the "essence of the pub remains the same", with changes including a new contemporary colour scheme to complement the pub’s historic features.

Memorabilia inside includes a replica of HMS Pandora in one of the dining spaces and even a ship figurehead. - which is currently - began the search for new business partners to take on the pub late last year. It says Tom and John’s history at the pub made them the ideal choice - with Tom’s partner Fayde also joining the team.

John said: "Tom and I have always been close friends, and it feels fantastic to be taking on the Pandora Inn together. The place has a powerful resonance and history – no matter where you are, it has a majestic presence. "Our new venture together just feels right – it feels like coming home.

" John previously ran the Old Quay Inn in Devoran for 15 years. Tom, who grew up in Mylor, was the owner and chef at The Waterside in nearby Flushing, running it with Fayde. The Pandora Inn also has a new menu for its new era.

Designed by Tom, it will showcase seasonal ingredients from local fishmongers and independent farmers. Tom said: "We want to keep things simple but use the best produce available. Guests can expect to see daily changing seafood specials, showcasing the best of what’s landed right outside on our pontoon, and sip St Austell Brewery favourites such as Korev and Proper Job, all whilst watching the world - and boats - go by.

"We're really excited to be part of this community and to bring something special to the area. The Pandora Inn is a well-loved spot, and we want to make sure we honour its history while creating something exciting." Clive Greene, head of tenanted estate for St Austell Brewery, said: “As expected, we had a really good level of interest from people wanting to run the historic Pandora Inn but for us, Tom and John really stood out.

“With long-standing experience of running pubs and restaurants in Cornwall, along with the unique position of both having already worked at the pub, we are excited to see how our new business partners will draw on the opportunities to enhance the Pandora Inn’s appeal. With many great ideas already afoot and with John’s experience of running a pub and Tom’s culinary skills in the kitchen, the Pandora Inn is in excellent hands.” John and Tom have been joined by the existing Pandora Inn team of around 25 dedicated staff members who have been an integral part of the inn's success.

The Pandora Inn reopens this weekend..