The History of The Miners Arms
The History of The Miners Arms
The Miners Arms stands in the heart of the picturesque village of Mithian, near St Agnes on Cornwall’s north coast. It is believed to date back to the 17th century, with parts of the building originating in the 1600s. Over the centuries it has been extended and adapted, but it still retains many of its original character features.
The building is Grade II listed, recognising its historic and architectural importance. Historic England records that the original inn was built during the 17th century, with significant additions made during the early 18th and 19th centuries. It is constructed from local killas stone, granite and Delabole slate, typical of traditional Cornish architecture.
A Pub with Stories
Like many ancient Cornish inns, The Miners Arms is surrounded by local legends.
According to local tradition, the pub has served many different roles throughout its long history, including:
- A courthouse
- A venue for village inquests
- A meeting place for miners
- A smugglers’ hideaway
- Even, according to folklore, a house of ill repute
There are also tales of ghostly sightings and rumours of secret passages beneath the building linking it with nearby historic properties. While these stories cannot all be verified, they form an important part of the inn’s character and local folklore.
The Mining Heritage
The village of Mithian grew alongside Cornwall’s internationally famous tin and copper mining industry.
For centuries, miners working around St Agnes, Wheal Kitty, Wheal Coates, and neighbouring mines would gather at the inn after long days underground. The pub became a social hub where miners, farmers and local families met to eat, drink and share news. The name “The Miners Arms” reflects this deep connection with Cornwall’s mining heritage.
Today....
Today, The Miners Arms continues that tradition of Cornish hospitality. While the village has changed dramatically since the mining era, the pub remains a welcoming destination where visitors can enjoy locally sourced food, fine drinks and the atmosphere of one of Cornwall’s most historic village inns.
Client Testimonials
Our Customers Feedback
travelling foodie
customer
We had a great meal here recently. Staff are all super welcoming and the food menu is nice and varied with plenty of “specials” to keep you coming back regularly. It is very dog friendly as well. Definitely a place worth a visit or two if you are in the area !
JoJoS3791
customer
Do not pass this place without a visit. It’s incredible. The location is wonderful, the staff are exceptionally friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is cosy and welcoming. While here on a break, this place was such a find. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area!
Dave
customer
Been to the miners recently for a meal, which was amazing. Couldn’t fault the main male manager, who was most welcoming and had a good sense of humour. However there is one waitress who I managed to clock her name from another member of your staff.
Simon
customer
We visited a couple of times during our stay and enjoyed every visit. The staff were incredibly welcoming, the food was excellent, and the historic building adds charm and character. It’s also very dog friendly, making it a great spot for guests and their four-legged companions.
Client Testimonials
Our Customers Feedback
travelling foodie
customer
We had a great meal here recently. Staff are all super welcoming and the food menu is nice and varied with plenty of “specials” to keep you coming back regularly. It is very dog friendly as well. Definitely a place worth a visit or two if you are in the area !
JoJoS3791
customer
Do not pass this place without a visit. It’s incredible. The location is wonderful, the staff are exceptionally friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is cosy and welcoming. While here on a break, this place was such a find. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area!
Dave
customer
Been to the miners recently for a meal, which was amazing. Couldn’t fault the main male manager, who was most welcoming and had a good sense of humour. However there is one waitress who I managed to clock her name from another member of your staff.
Simon
customer
We visited a couple of times during our stay and enjoyed every visit. The staff were incredibly welcoming, the food was excellent, and the historic building adds charm and character. It’s also very dog friendly, making it a great spot for guests and their four-legged companions.
Reviews
Our Customers feedback
Best foods for you & family
travelling foodie
customer
We had a great meal here recently. Staff are all super welcoming and the food menu is nice and varied with plenty of “specials” to keep you coming back regularly. It is very dog friendly as well. Definitely a place worth a visit or two if you are in the area !
JoJoS3791
customer
Do not pass this place without a visit. It’s simply incredible. Location is wonderful.The staff can’t do enough and are just so friendly and are just fabulous. Atmosphere is cosy warm and welcoming. While here on a break this place was such a find.
Dave
customer
Been to the miners recently for a meal, which was amazing. Couldn’t fault the main male manager, who was most welcoming and had a good sense of humour. However there is one waitress who I managed to clock her name from another member of your staff.
Simon
customer
We ate here a couple of times over this week. Every member of staff has been been absolutely wonderful and the food was great. The building has lots of history and is very quirky. All the staff paid a lot attention to our chocolate lab which she loved!