The Tartan Fox

Named in a nod to Adam Handling’s Scottish roots and his deep-seated passion for the Cornish landscape, The Tartan Fox is a masterclass in the “refined gastropub.”

This 400-year-old Grade II listed building serves as a cozy yet sophisticated sanctuary, where thick granite walls and roaring open fireplaces meet an eclectic, earthy decor. It is a space that feels both historic and vibrantly modern; a place where traditional pub charm is elevated by high-end culinary innovation.

Visited 22/02/26

This was our second visit to The Tartan Fox, which is hands down our favorite restaurant in Cornwall. It has become our go-to for special occasions; having previously celebrated my birthday here, we returned this time for our wedding anniversary.

A lovely touch to keep in mind: if you mention a special occasion when booking, the team always provides a few wonderful surprises throughout the meal.

We visited for Sunday lunch, and the food was truly exceptional (just thinking about it now makes my mouth water). Interestingly, Adam Handling was in the building during our visit, so he may well have had a hand in preparing our meal.

We opted for the two-course menu at £42.00 per person, with the must-try bread and chicken butter as an additional £7.00.

From the service to the atmosphere, the team always goes the extra mile. For us, the experience here remains unrivaled in the county.

We ordered:

Snacks:

• Bread & chicken butter – £7.00

Mains and sides:

• Roast Moorland beef x 2
• Yorkshire pudding, Beef fat potatoes, Cauliflower cheese, Seasonal greens

Desserts:

• Chocolate orange creme brulee
• Sticky toffee pudding

Drinks:

• Toffee and maple, espresso martini x 2 £15.00 each
• Guiness zero – £6.00

Absolutely delivious, we loved every minute and can’t wait to go back again soon.

The photo’s in the gallery above are from our fiest visit. Equally delicious, mouth-watering food with impeccable service.

Dining & Cuisine

The menu at The Tartan Fox is a celebration of the “best of British,” with a strong emphasis on sustainable sourcing and zero-waste techniques.

• The Menu: Expect elevated pub classics and creative seasonal plates. Signature dishes often include Adam’s famous chicken butter with sourdough, haggis Scotch eggs, and perfectly executed Cornish steaks. The Sunday Roast is a major draw, featuring local meats and all the traditional trimmings with a gourmet twist.
• Sustainable Ethos: Following the philosophy of its sister restaurant, Ugly Butterfly, the kitchen utilizes every part of the ingredient. Foraged herbs, local game, and fish from nearby markets ensure the carbon footprint is kept to a minimum.
• The Bar: The bar area remains a true pub at heart, serving local Cornish ales, craft beers, and an extensive wine list. The cocktail menu is particularly inventive, often featuring house-made infusions and syrups created from kitchen off-cuts.
• The Atmosphere: The interior balances historic architecture with contemporary luxury—think velvet seating, botanical accents, and soft lighting. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed family lunch, a romantic dinner, or a pint by the fire after a coastal walk.

The Essentials

• Location: Carvynick Farm, Summercourt, Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 5AF
• Opening Hours: Typically open daily. Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM; Dinner: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Bar open all day for drinks. (Check seasonal variations for Sunday service).
• Dog-Friendly: Very dog-friendly! Well-behaved four-legged friends are welcome in the bar and garden areas, making it a popular choice for those exploring the surrounding countryside.
• View on Google Maps: Carvynick Farm, Newquay TR8 5AF

Accessibility

The Tartan Fox is located within a historic building, but much of the ground floor bar and dining area is accessible. There is level access to the main entrance and the spacious garden terrace.

Due to the age of the property, some doorways are traditional in width and there are slight changes in floor levels in certain areas. Accessible restroom facilities are available on-site. It is recommended to contact the team in advance to ensure a table in the most accessible part of the restaurant.