Independent Cornish distillery and hospitality business Pocketful of Stones is overseeing a £100,000 investment in the Red Lion in Newlyn, following the historic harbour-side pub’s successful first summer under its management.
The Red Lion will close for around two weeks from the 28th September while Pocketful of Stones and pub company Admiral Taverns carry out improvements designed to upgrade yet preserve the pub’s much-loved character.
The works will retain the Red Lion’s cosy, traditional feel while improving key areas including the toilets and bar, as well as giving the floors and ceilings some much-needed attention. Plans also include the creation of a new courtyard area and the installation of log burners, helping guests make the most of the pub’s indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the year, from summer evenings outside to stormy winter nights by the harbour.
Mike Cunliffe, Co-Owner of Pocketful of Stones, said: “The Red Lion has such an important place in Newlyn’s history and community, and we knew from the outset that it needed to remain a proper local pub: welcoming, characterful and somewhere people can come for a brilliant pint, good food and good company.
“After seeing the response over our first summer, we are really excited to make this next investment alongside Admiral Taverns. We want to look after the things people already love about the Red Lion, while improving the spaces that will make it even better for locals and visitors alike.
“Newlyn is an extraordinary place, full of creativity, hard work and character. The team has done a fantastic job of bringing the pub back to life, and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back once the work is complete, particularly in time for cosy winter evenings around the fire!”
The pub closed at the end of 2025, prompting concern that it could become another loss of a traditional pub. Pocketful of Stones worked with Admiral Taverns to take on the venue, reopening it at the end of February 2026 and bringing it back into use as a community pub.
Since reopening, the pub is now run by a young local team led by manager Todd Kyle and assistant manager Lydia Chappell. Visitors can expect a wider choice of Cornish beers, wines and spirits behind the bar. In the kitchen, led by talented chef George Mitchell, the menu takes its cue from familiar Cornish pub food with an exciting creative twist using seasonal ingredients from nearby suppliers. Summer events, including outdoor barbecues, live music and themed events, have also helped bring people back together at the pub, restoring the Red Lion as a place for visitors and locals alike.
The Red Lion has also recently been awarded a Silver Plastic Free Champion Award by Plastic Free Penzance, recognising the steps the pub is taking to reduce single-use plastic in its day-to-day operation.
The Red Lion is the third hospitality venue operated by Pocketful of Stones, alongside the business’s popular Penzance bar and tasting room and Falmouth shop. Founded in 2016 as a small-batch Cornish spirits producer, Pocketful of Stones has grown into an award-winning distillery and hospitality business, now employing 30 people across its venues.
The business recently marked its tenth anniversary with a month of events and the launch of Caspyn Ten, a limited-edition release celebrating its flagship Caspyn Gin.
Mike added: “And as for what comes next, you’ll have to watch this space. We’re excited about the possibility of more Pocketful of Stones venues around Cornwall as we continue to build on the foundations we have created: good spaces, good people and a genuine love of hospitality.
“It is a tough industry, but we are lucky to have a brilliant team behind us. With their energy and commitment, we are looking forward to seeing where the next few years take us.”
The Red Lion is expected to reopen in October 2026. For updates, opening information and forthcoming events, visit Pocketful of Stones.
