Traditional 18th-century pub The Rising Sun Inn near Launceston lies in the shadow of brooding Bodmin Moor and captivates with an enticing menu, a fascinating past and striking surroundings.

Tim and Terri Kendall have garnered a well-earnt reputation for running this unpretentious pub which not only serves quality food crafted from local ingredients but also doubles as an excellent base for exploring the county’s inner heartlands.

The pair have form when it comes to doing dining pubs well: they took over The Barley Sheaf at Gorran Haven in 2020, then expanded their portfolio with this north Cornwall venture in 2022.

Chef-owner Tim began his career at Rick Stein’s The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow, and spent two years in London working with big hitters Michel Roux Jr and Marcus Wareing. At The Rising Sun Inn Launceston, he cooks with head chef Simon Davies (a former Nathan Outlaw apprentice) and a talented kitchen team.

Their menu offers traditional Cornish fare with innovative twists. Experience it in dishes such as saffron arancini with truffle mayo, chased by braised featherblade with smoked mash and red wine sauce, followed by queen of puddings lavished with rhubarb and orange.

Dogs are welcome in the bar and garden. In summer, guests can chill outdoors with good food and drinks at the regular Acoustic Sundays sessions.

Trencherman’s tip

Don’t fancy the drive home? Those who dine in the restaurant can bag a free camping pitch.