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A History of the Edgcumbe Arms, Cremyll

The Edgcumbe Arms, nestled in the picturesque village of Cremyll, boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with the renowned Edgcumbe family and the iconic Mount Edgcumbe. More than just a pub, it's a living testament to the area's heritage, offering a glimpse into centuries of local life and the enduring connection between Cremyll and its powerful neighbours. Its origins, likely predating any extant records, are rooted in Cremyll's role as a vital ferry crossing point.

Initially, the building likely served not just as an inn but also as a passage house. Passage houses were common in locations with significant ferry services. They provided accommodation and refreshment for travellers awaiting the ferry, as well as acting as a point of contact for arranging passage. In Cremyll's case, the ferry across the Hamoaze provided crucial transport links to Devonport and Plymouth, making the establishment of a passage house a natural and essential development. These passage houses were more than simple taverns; they acted as information hubs, meeting points, and often facilitated the booking of passage and the handling of luggage. They catered to a diverse clientele, from local fishermen and farmers to merchants and wealthier travellers, reflecting the importance of the ferry traffic.

The precise founding date of the Edgcumbe Arms remains elusive, lost to the mists of time, but its history undoubtedly stretches back to a period when Cremyll was a thriving community, heavily reliant on its ferry connection. The inn's proximity to the ferry landing would have made it a vital centre of activity, serving travellers, ferrymen, and local residents alike.

The pub's name, "Edgcumbe Arms," links it to the influential Edgcumbe family, whose ancestral home, Mount Edgcumbe House, overlooks the Hamoaze. This magnificent estate has shaped the landscape for generations. The Edgcumbes' influence extended beyond their estate, impacting Cremyll and surrounding villages. While the Edgcumbe family's precise involvement in the pub's early history isn't fully documented, the name suggests a close association, perhaps through patronage or ownership.

Over the years, the Edgcumbe Arms witnessed significant historical events: the bustling activity of the Cremyll ferry, the comings and goings of sailors and merchants, and the impact of wars and technological advancements. The pub's walls likely hold countless stories, celebrations, and memories.

The latter half of the 20th century and beyond also saw its share of changes. A devastating fire in the 1990s significantly impacted the Edgcumbe Arms. This event marked a turning point in the pub's history. The rebuilding and subsequent restoration represent a testament to the community's commitment to preserving this vital part of Cremyll's heritage. The recovery from the fire may have also involved changes in ownership or management, shaping the pub's character in the years following the incident.

Today, the Edgcumbe Arms continues its tradition as a welcoming hub for locals and visitors. While its appearance may have evolved, its core purpose remains the same: to offer a community space. It offers a blend of history and hospitality, allowing guests to connect with the past while enjoying the present, with Mount Edgcumbe and the Hamoaze as its backdrop. The pub's continued existence is a testament to its resilience and enduring appeal in this historic corner of Cornwall. Its location, tied to the historic Cremyll Ferry and Mount Edgcumbe House, secures its place in local history.