Paul and Emma Ainsworth to take over the St Enodoc hotel in Cornwall

Paul and Emma Ainsworth have acquired the keys to the St Enodoc hotel in Rock, Cornwall.

The chef behind the Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at No6 in Padstow already operates the Mariners pub, also in Rock.

The St Enodoc overlooks the Camel Estuary and offers 21 rooms, a restaurant and beauty rooms. It is believed to be the only hotel in the neighbourhood.

The hotel was built in the 1920s by Miss Skinner and Miss Webber and hosted Princess Alexandra of Kent during the war.

In 1999, the property completed a significant refurbishment and in 2019, it was bought by Robert and Carol Barkwell.

The couple had an emotional attachment to the property after staying there during their honeymoon. They resigned as directors earlier this month, according to documents filed on Companies House.

Paul said: “Emma and I have long admired the St Enodoc and are absolutely delighted to become its new owners and custodians. This landmark hotel is set in a stunning location right on our doorstep. We are excited to welcome this wonderful hotel to the Ainsworth Collection and further build on its legacy.

“We have no immediate plans to change the style of the hotel – our priority is ensuring a seamless employment transition for the St Enodoc team while welcoming 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.”

Paul also operates Caffè Rojano, Padstow Townhouse, and Ci Ci’s Bar, all of which are located on the North Cornwall coast.