A Brief History of the Cornish Pasty
The Cornish pasty is a culinary icon with a history as rich as its filling. Originally crafted as a portable and hearty meal for Cornish tin miners, the pasty was designed to keep hands free of toxic arsenic dust. The crimped edge allowed miners to hold the pasty without contaminating the food, discarding the crust once eaten. Today, the pasty remains a staple of Cornish cuisine and has even gained Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, ensuring that only pasties made in Cornwall can bear the name ‘Cornish pasty’.
The Ultimate Cornish Pasty Taste Test
We took on the difficult (but delicious) task of sampling pasties from some of the best-known bakeries in West Cornwall. Here are our top picks:
1. Philps Bakery (Hayle & Marazion)
A favourite among locals and visitors, Philps is known for its generous fillings, flaky pastry, and perfect seasoning. Their traditional steak pasty is a must-try, but they also offer a great selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
2. St Ives Bakery (St Ives)
Nestled in the heart of St Ives, this bakery prides itself on hand-crimped, beautifully golden pasties. Their traditional steak pasty is packed with locally sourced beef, potatoes, and swede, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust.
3. Warrens Bakery (Multiple Locations)
As one of the oldest pasty makers in Cornwall, Warrens has been crafting pasties since 1860. Their classic Cornish pasty is a great introduction to authentic Cornish flavours, while their cheese and onion variety is a hit with vegetarians.
4. Ann’s Pasties (Helston & Porthleven)
Ann’s Pasties is a family-run bakery that has become legendary for its homemade approach and locally sourced ingredients. Each pasty is crafted with love, delivering a perfect balance of texture and taste.
5. Lavenders Cornish Pasties (Penzance)
Lavenders is a hidden gem in Penzance, known for its traditional and inventive pasty flavours. Their steak pasty is a solid choice, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their seasonal specials.
Experience Cornwall’s Best Pasties for Yourself
There’s no better way to enjoy Cornwall than with a warm pasty in hand, looking out over the stunning coastline. Whether you’re planning a trip or already here, make sure to sample a few of these top pasty spots.
And if you’re looking for the perfect base for your Cornish adventure, why not stay at our charming Knocker Cottage? Located in the heart of West Cornwall, our cosy 19th-century miner’s cottage is the ideal retreat after a day of exploring (and eating pasties!).
Book your stay here and experience the true taste of Cornwall!