Top 50 Gastropub operator announces expansion

Paul and Emma Ainsworth at The St Enodoc hotel
Group expansion: Paul and Emma Ainsworth have taken on the St Enodoc Hotel in Rock, Cornwall (©The Ainsworth Collection)

Paul and Emma Ainsworth have taken on a Cornwall boutique hotel.

The couple said they had “long admired” the 21-bedroom property and keeping its style would be a priority.

Built in the 1920s, The St Enodoc has sweeping views over the Camel Estuary in Rock, Cornwall.

A social media post from the chef said: “Emma and I are absolutely delighted to announced we have acquired The St Enodoc Hotel in Rock.

“We have long admired the hotel and are thrilled to become its new owners and custodians.”

Legacy building

It added: “Set in a stunning location right on our doorstep, we’re beyond excited [to] welcome the property to The Ainsworth Collection, further building on its legacy.

“We have no immediate plans to change the style of the hotel with our priority being a seamless employment transition for the St Enodoc team and to welcome them to the Ainsworth Collection family, to get to know our new business and to create a warm welcome for guests.

“We can’t wait to start our journey with this lovely hotel and commence the next chapter in St Enodoc’s story.”

In 2019, Paul and Emma took on the Mariners also in Rock, which was previously run by fellow chef Nathan Outlaw.

Eight months after opening, the Cornwall pub took home the title of Newcomer of the Year at the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs.

Group sites

The Mariners has been on the prestigious list since and currently sits at number three.

The Padstow Townhouse is also part of the Ainsworth Collection - an 18th century townhouse, which is currently number four on the Top 50 Boutique Hotels list and featured six uniquely-styled suites, filled with luxurious furnishings and indulgent treats.

Each of its suites are named after a classic dessert or sweet treat such as Rhubarb & Custard, Toffee Apple and Honeycomb.

Other venues also include Michelin-starred restaurant Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 as well as Caffé Rojano and Ci Ci’s Bar.