The Dickens Connection
In October 1842 Charles Dickens visited Padstow, a trip which unleashed his creativity and resulted in the penning of his acclaimed novel ‘A Christmas Carol’, (inspired by Dicken’s visits to hungry city street children). It’s believed that the character of ‘Marley’s Ghost’ was based on his good friend Dr Miles Marley, a 19th Century practioner he met in London, who is buried at St Endellion Church, near Port Isaac.
Dr Miles Marley’s son, Dr Henry Frederick Marley, practised in Padstow for 51 years and died at his home in St Issey on 27th January 1908. This photograph depicts Dr Miles Marley’s daughters crossing the bridge at Little Petherick, St Issey (pre-1904).
Intrigued after a visit to The Pickwick, local historian Barry West decided to follow up this story and uncovered clues which supported the rumours, also discovering the grave of Dr Miles Marley. This story was subsequently covered by the BBC, The Guardian, The Daily Mail and The Daily Mirror.
The Dickens connection lives on through The Pickwick Inn. Proprietors Eddie and Jenny Stanton have been welcoming guests for nearly 40 years, their daughters Natalie & Jessica are partners and the family are now welcoming the fourth generation into the business!. The Team with their constant pursuit for excellence has ensured this Cornish country pub, in the middle of nowhere, continues to entice people from far and wide to turn ‘off the beaten track’, and return to The Pickwick time and time again.
Our Amazing Staff
Eddie & Jenny Stanton - Proprietors
For nearly 40 years Eddie and Jenny have put their heart and souls into making The Pickwick a ‘go-to’ destination pub. Still very much hands-on, they are the ultimate hosts. Despite spending four decades welcoming their loyal customers, they refuse to sit still and are constantly looking to evolve the offering. In the last few years creating The Pickwick’s nine luxury bedrooms and 100-seater open-kitchen restaurant, as you do, in your sixties!
The Stanton Family are now welcoming the fourth generation into the business. It all began with Geoff & Joyce Stanton alongside son Eddie and his wife Jenny followed by their daughters Natalie & Jessica who grew up at the pub and now the latest additions, Natalie’s son Oliver and Jessica and Russ’ daughter, Bo Joyce.
Natalie Moore
Partner
With a background in media and journalism, Natalie returned to the family business 12 years ago after having her Son, Oliver. She brings her experience of marketing and storytelling to the table. Natalie is responsible for event planning and with a passion for fine food and drink, she is also 'chief taster'; a role which she embraces.
Sally Oram
Front of House Manager
Sally has been welcoming guests at The Pickwick for 11 years, her passion for fantastic service is coupled with her extensive knowledge of the food and drink industry. With a particular interest in local Gins, Sally is also a master of creating her own delicious organic house cocktails and cordials.
Viv Ornsby
Housekeeping Team
Viv, who has lived in South Africa for a large part of her and enjoys visting Hawaii, is part of The Pickwick's fantastic housekeeping team, with an eye for detail and boundless energy, you'll struggle to find her without a duster in hand or a huge smile on her face!