The historic Old Ferry Inn, in the Cornish village of Bodinnick that was home to author Daphne du Maurier, is set for a new chapter after being sold off a guide price of just over £1 million.
The former coaching inn on the banks of the River Fowey was sold by the Hotels Agency team at commercial property specialists Colliers to Jenny and Mike West and Paul Worswick, who are now planning a mini refurbishment and recruitment drive ready for opening on May 17.
The Old Ferry Inn – which had been marketed by Colliers for offers in the region of £1,050,000 freehold – overlooks the Bodinnick to Fowey ferry, and the former home of Cornish author Daphne du Maurier, whose works include Jamaica Inn, Rebecca, Frenchman’s Creek and My Cousin Rachel.
It features three terraced areas with stunning river views towards Fowey, Polruan and out to the English Channel, and presently has 11 letting bedrooms, a bar, a lounge, and a restaurant. There is also a two bedroom owner’s flat, with lounge and bathroom.
The day to day running of the Old Ferry Inn will be overseen by Paul Worswick who brings a wealth of experience in the trade, most recently as the owner of 55 Yards in Newquay and 5 Yards at the Boathouse in Newquay harbour in 2020.
He said: “We are so excited to become the new custodians of the Old Ferry and are eager to begin restoring her to her full glory.
“First off we are going to address some of the urgent bits of work needed as well as decorate throughout.
“We have a new Executive Chef coming onboard with some amazing plans for our food offering – we are also going to bring our distillery on site where we make our own gin, vodka and rum so we’re confident it’s going to become a real destination venue.”
Ed Jefferson, of the Hotels Agency team at Colliers, said: “There was considerable competition during the early months of 2021 for the Old Ferry.
“We are finding that attractive businesses in high volume tourist locations are in high demand from buyers who recognise the opportunity to capitalise on the appetite for both UK breaks and eating and drinking out of the home, whilst building a strong business for the future. The Old Ferry has a fabulous location and I have no doubt it will trade exceptionally well for the new owners.”
