Turks Head Oldest Pub & Restaurant in Penzance

Experience the unique atmosphere of place in history that is steeped in intrigue and mystery. Imagine yourself taking a drink in the same place that Pirates and Smugglers once used some 750 years ago. This is one of the oldest pubs in Cornwall. An underground tunnel leading from the harbour was used to secretly transport their bounty just before their evenings rest at the Public Bar. This can still be seen from our courtyard.

Allow your imagination to wander as you decide what to do. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere in the comfort of the bar area. Ponder over the selection of the finest food in the area from our extensive menu or simply enjoy the ambience of a local friendly pub.

The Turks Head restaurant serves the freshest, finest local produce. The food has been recognised by numerous awards. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy. Take in the Cornish sun while eating your meal Al Fresco in the covered seating area.

The Turks Head is reputed to date from 1233 when, during the crusades, the Turks invaded Penzance, from Jerusalem. At that time the Turks were excommunicated by Pope Calixtus.

It was the first Inn, in England, to be named 'The Turks Head', others adopting the name in future times. Alterations were made during the 16th Century when part of the building was burnt down during the Spanish Invasion. The original building had a courtyard at the front (this is now the main bar).

During the 17th Century, the old cellar, which is now the dining room, was used by navel ratings. There was a smugglers tunnel leading directly to the harbour. The tunnel is still under the property and can be found to the right of the building, the whole of which used to be part of the Turks Head. The tunnel came in to the diner then up a shaft, arriving to the right of what is now the main bar, and then on to the first floor, where priests were hidden in the 'Priest Holes'. These are still in existence. The second floor was a fisherman's loft, with two large net doors leading onto the original courtyard. At the rear of the building there used to be both a Band Hall and a Cell for locking up drunks and undesirables.

In the 18th Century, the Landlord of the Turks Head was a Mr Holloway, the son of a pill manufacturer. His son, Thomas Holloway, moved to London and started Holloway's College for Women, and also Holloway Prison.

In the last one hundred years the Turks Head has only had 3 landlords. Now as we head in to the 21st Century, the new landlords of the 'Turks Head', Jonathan and Helen, welcome you to this very special and charming old world pub.