The Best Sunday Roasts in Cornwall for a Cosy Autumn Retreat
With the change of seasons, it’s time to embrace cosy evenings and hearty meals by the fire. Whilst summer in Cornwall is undeniably magical, there’s something special about autumn that we love just as much. The quieter pace, the crisp air and the changing colours of the landscape make it one of our favourite times of the year. It’s also a time where the county has less visitors, making it one of the best times for exploration.
After a busy season of holidaymakers and weddings, autumn becomes a time to slow down, recharge, and reconnect. Whether it’s an invigorating sea swim, a countryside stroll, a relaxing outdoor sauna, or a soak in our wood-fired hot tubs, this is when we focus on what matters most – spending quality time with loved ones.
Of course, no autumnal experience is complete without a comforting meal. This is reflected by the changing menus of some of our favourite pubs and restaurants. So, in the spirit of slowing down and savouring the season, we’ve rounded up the best places in Cornwall to enjoy a hearty Sunday roast, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
The Cornish Place
Nestled in the heart of Cornish farmland, The Cornish Place is the perfect retreat to witness nature’s transformation. Our crisp morning walks offer a front-row seat to the changing colours, as lush greens give way to golden ochres and deep russets. As the countryside shifts, so do the activities of local wildlife – watch squirrels gather for winter, spot deer in the misty mornings, and hear the early hour birdsong become more pronounced as migratory birds make their way to Cornwall for the winter season.
Autumn is the ideal time for long, leisurely afternoons exploring the surrounding trails, where the soft crunch of leaves underfoot adds to the sense of tranquillity. Afterwards, retreat to the comfort of our cosy holiday cottages, where you can relax by the fire with a good book, indulge in a local cider or hot chocolate, and unwind in our outdoor hot tubs, all whilst surrounded by breathtaking autumn scenery.
If you prefer a home-cooked meal, all of our accommodation is self-catered meaning you can chef to your heart's content. With modern appliances and beautiful decor, it’s a pleasant place to enjoy an evening meal.
The best places for a Sunday roast in Cornwall
If eating out appeals to you more, there is no shortage of excellent pubs and restaurants nearby where you can treat yourself to some Sunday indulgence. Here are our recommendations for the best Sunday lunch in Cornwall, which guarantee a tantalising treat for your tastebuds.
Indidog, Falmouth
Indidog Eatery in Falmouth, best for a roast on the harbour front.
Perched above Falmouth harbour, Indidog offers unbeatable views and a premium dining experience. Watch boats glide along the river as you enjoy a delicious roast, any Sunday between October and Easter. The outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to soak in the stunning views over the Carrick Roads towards Flushing and Mylor, whilst tucking into roast pork, roast beef or a perfectly-seasoned vegan nut roast. Indidog’s relaxed yet upscale vibe is complemented by a strong focus on locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring a top-quality meal that perfectly matches the scenic surroundings.
Harbour House, Flushing
The Harbour House in Flushing, best for a roast in a cute fishing village.
Featured in the Michelin Guide, Harbour House Flushing is a must-visit for food lovers. Recently refurbished, this waterside pub blends modern style with the charm of a cosy Cornish pub. Known for its seasonal and sustainable menu, it serves up only the freshest ingredients, including bread baked on-site. They also have a fantastic cocktail list and live music on Sunday evenings. The views over the Fal River are breathtaking, especially in winter when the pub catches the last light of the day – perfect for a late afternoon lunch whilst watching the sunset.
Star & Garter, Falmouth
The Star and Garter in Falmouth, best for a characterful pub in Falmouth.
An award-winning gastro-pub set amidst Falmouth’s artistic quarter with views over the harbour, Star & Garter know how to do roasts. With HUGE yorkshire puddings, locally-sourced seasonal veg and beautiful presentation, this truly is a Sunday treat. All of their meats are supplied by local butcher Philip Warren, however they also have veggie options on offer too. The pub has recently been taken over by Restaurant Mine which is on the Michelin Guide, so we can only expect things to go from strength to strength. Be sure to book in advance, as the eating area is cosy and small. Star & Garter also serve roasts later than most other places in Cornwall (from midday to 8 pm), so are a good option if you're looking for a later evening meal.
The Standard Inn, Portscatho
The Standard Inn Portscatho, best for a roast on the Roseland Peninsula.
A ‘proper’ local freehouse, perched on the top of Portscatho hill, The Standard Inn is a true local gem, known for its excellent selection of local brews and outstanding Sunday roasts. They are recognised as not only one of the best roasts in Cornwall, but in the whole of the UK according to the Guardian. Expect a mouthwatering menu featuring slow-roast beef, veggie and vegan options on request, paired with seasonal veg sourced from nearby Roseland Market Garden. During the summer, they swap traditional roasts for Sunday barbecues in their sun-drenched, south-facing beer garden. Here, you can savour dishes like beef rump with chimichurri, locally caught fish, or charred cauliflower, all served with fresh salads and homemade wood-fired bread.
Nancarrow Farm, Truro
Nancarrow Farm, best for a roast in a barn with minimal food miles.
Tucked away in a secluded valley near Truro, Nancarrow Farm is renowned for its Sunday feasts. As a family-run working farm for over 250 years, it offers the freshest, farm-to-table produce in a peaceful and picturesque setting. The menus are inspired by the farm’s seasonal offerings, featuring ingredients from the fields, hedgerows, kitchen garden, and larder. From May to August, enjoy a lighter Sunday lunch with farm-fresh salads, vegetables, and home-reared produce. From September to April, savour a traditional roast with organic, home-reared meats, complemented by a crackling woodburner, live music, and the serene Millpond backdrop.
Flora New Yard, Helston
Flora at New Yard, best for a roast near the Helford River.
Located on the historic and unspoilt Trelowarren Estate, Flora New Yard is a family-run café, bakery, and restaurant offering delicious, seasonal fare. Their menu is crafted from ingredients either grown on-site or sourced from a network of small growers, farmers, fisherfolk, and foragers, ensuring every dish reflects the best of local, sustainable produce. This led to previous owners Caroline and Jeffrey Robinson being awarded the first Green Michelin Star in Cornwall. Their Sunday lunch is served as three courses, including seafood, meat and their home-grown wares. However, they cater to all dietary requirements – just let them know when booking. The café is small, so book in advance to avoid disappointment. Everything about the Flora is exquisite – you won’t be disappointed.
The Longstore, Truro
The Longstore in Truro, best for a roast in the city.
Based in the heart of Truro, The Longstore is known for its top-quality steaks and seafood. Created within a striking Georgian building, you can expect stylish and refined dining. The Sunday lunch menu is extensive, featuring everything from burgers to fish dishes to italian-inspired starters. However, their roast is not to be missed – with the choice of three meats or a veggie option served with rich red wine gravy, rosemary and garlic potatoes and yorkshire puddings. Longstore is also perfect to tie in with a trip to the Hall For Cornwall, with their pre-theatre menus. Or, visit their sister restaurant in the old seaside port of Charlestown.
The Gurnard’s Head, near Zennor
The Gurnards Head, best for a roast near St Ives.
One of the best pubs in Cornwall full stop, The Gurnard’s Head is the perfect place to combine a Sunday stroll with a hearty lunch. Its distinctive yellow walls can be found on the cliffs of the rugged north Cornwall coastline, where the pub has been standing since the 1800s. The shabby chic decor and blazing fires give the ultimate feeling of comfort which enhances the Michelin-recommended food. The Gurnard’s Head is also dog-friendly, meaning you can bring the whole family. The Sunday menu can be ordered as two or three courses and includes Sunday classics and modern twists – all including local coastal, foraged and farmland produce. This pub is legendary in Cornwall and for good reason.
The Cove Café, Hayle
The Cove Cafe in Hayle, best for a roast on the beach.
Nestled amidst the cliffs at Riviere Towans, The Cove Café has recently been taken over by chef and owner of Philleigh Way Cookery School – Rupert Cooper. Their Sunday lunch offering is available between midday and 3 pm, with roast dinners available from late September, but please check dates. The menu includes a veggie or fish starter, followed by a choice between a rump or roasted squash main. The prices are good so you may as well throw in a dessert too – this year it’s lemon posset with chocolate. Hayle also has some of the best beaches in Cornwall, which means you can tie lunch in with a sandy stroll. Our suggestion would be to check out the vast expanses of Gwithian, where you can soak up the serenity of St Ives Bay.
The Tartan Fox, Newquay
The Tartan Fox, Summercourt. Best for a roast by a Michelin starred chef.
Last but not least, The Tartan Fox is our top recommendation for those looking to stop off for a Sunday lunch on the way in or out of Cornwall (our changeover day is Sunday). It’s a great place to fuel up for group trips, as long as you make reservations in advance. Recently opened by award-winning chef Adam Handling MBE, it is a celebration of local produce with a luxury approach. Tuck into your lunch whilst enjoying the cosy ambience of the stunning 400-year-old Grade II listed building, which sits on a 30 acre estate. The Sunday lunch menu is extensive, including roast chicken, beef, vegan wellington, pork and hake. However, everything is guaranteed to be cooked to perfection, as Handling is one of the best chefs in the country.
Plan your trip
If you fancy an autumn or winter trip to Cornwall, our luxury holiday cottages offer the perfect cosy retreat. Visit our website to learn more or book now to guarantee your own Cornish Sunday feast.