Smugglers History
Smugglers and The Tea Bar are situated at Tolverne on the Roseland (eastern) side of the River Fal on Cornwall’s south coast. The cottage itself dates back to the 15th century and is believed to have been built as a ferryman’s home, as this part of the river is an important crossing point between Truro and the Roseland peninsula. The route was also used by pilgrims travelling from London to St Michael's Mount at Marazion. The original ferry ceased operating in 1933 as car traffic increased and was accommodated by the famous King Harry chain ferry at Trelissick.
Although Smugglers Cottage has always been a part of the historic Tregothnan estate, it was tenanted by the Newman family from 1934 until 2010 when Mr & Mrs Newman retired from their roles as publicans. The family first came to Tolverne in 1934 to operate a steam ferry from Truro which would stop at the cottage providing a welcome break and refreshments for passengers. This tradition continues today, as ferry passengers make a beeline to Smugglers to enjoy its unrivalled river views and tempting afternoon teas.
During the early years of their occupancy the Newmans witnessed the most famous, and perhaps the most important, era of Smugglers’ long history. The South West region played a critical role in the build up to the D-Day landings of 1944 and this particular corner of Cornwall played host to thousands of American soldiers, sailors and airmen destined for the beaches of Normandy. Tolverne was one of a handful of disembarkation points along with Trebah garden on the Helford river. To accommodate the amphibious landing craft a long, winding road, beach and slipway were built and still define the character of Tolverne today.
Smugglers hosted perhaps its most famous guest in 1944 when General Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe, visited the cottage to address thousands of US troops.Today we still fly the American flag to commemorate the thousands of servicemen who left this tranquil spot in Cornwall for Omaha beach, many of whom would never return home. You can still see Eisenhower’s chair, portrait and a number of other interesting memorabilia objects at the cottage.
The cottage’s Uganda Room is testament to another fascinating period in Smugglers' history. The SS Uganda arrived on the river in 1985 and spent her final 13 months here, following a long and honourable career as a hospital ship and troop ship on active service throughout the Falklands conflict under the call sign “Mother Hen”. She later became a pleasure cruiser, transporting school children on education trips and remembered fondly by many. The Uganda room has a wealth of pictures and memorabilia.