One of Cornwall’s Most Iconic Waterside Pubs Pandora Inn Reopens Its Doors This Weekend

The iconic Pandora Inn reopens under familiar faces – here’s what to expect

One of Cornwall’s most beloved waterside pubs is reopening its doors this weekend – and it’s in the hands of two friends who know it better than most.

Tom Milby and John Calland return to run the Pandora Inn

The Pandora Inn, a 13th Century thatched pub on the banks of Restronguet Creek in Mylor, officially reopens on Friday 29th March following a period of refurbishment and change of ownership.

Taking on the world-famous venue are Tom Milby and John Calland, two experienced publicans who previously worked at the Pandora together over 15 years ago. Both have gone on to run popular pubs and restaurants in Cornwall, and have now reunited to breathe new life into the inn – joined by Tom’s partner Fayde.

John, who previously ran the Old Quay Inn in Devoran for 15 years, will return to his former role front of house, while Tom, who grew up in Mylor and ran The Waterside in nearby Flushing, will lead in the kitchen.

A pub with a pontoon – and a powerful past

The Pandora Inn has long held a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. Famous for its pontoon beer garden where guests can moor up by kayak, paddle board or boat, the historic pub is just a short distance from marinas and harbours including Loe Beach, Mylor, Falmouth and St Mawes.

The building itself dates back to the 1200s and has been carefully maintained by owners St Austell Brewery, who recently carried out sensitive restoration works as the pub changed hands – including rethatching parts of the roof and refreshing the interiors.

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.”

Local food, fresh thinking and the same charm

Although the Pandora Inn has been refreshed with a new contemporary colour scheme and features such as a replica of HMS Pandora and a ship figurehead, its traditional feel remains. The new publicans are committed to preserving its heritage while introducing a warm and modern atmosphere.

Tom, who has designed the new menu, 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.”

The reopening comes just in time for Mother’s Day, with around 25 existing team members from the Pandora Inn staying on as part of the relaunch.

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.”

Tom added: “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.”

CornishStuff previously reported on the search for new management back in November – you can read that here: Iconic Pub Near Falmouth with Pontoon Beer Garden Looking for New Management.