The Mermaid started its very interesting life as a “Sail Loft” where sails and nets were stored and mended, but in 1904 it became 'Tucker’s Pop Factory' owned by the Tucker family, [to this day it is still known affectionately by many local people as Tucker’s]. Lemonade was made and bottled at the factory in the old fashioned bottles with glass marble stoppers. The marbles of course were very popular with children, who would break the bottles to get the marbles to play with. Because of this the bottles nowadays are quite collectable - and we ourselves are fortunate enough to have been able to collect some Tucker’s memorabilia, which we have on display in the bar.From the bottling plant the bottles were loaded on to a horse and cart at the rear of the building, but in later days John Tucker purchased a Ford sedan from which he removed the back, turning it into a dray - in fact, so forward looking were they that Mrs. Tucker was the first woman driver in Cornwall, and carried on driving to the age of eighty four. In the summer months an extra five ladies were taken on to help with production. Sadly though, due to more stringent hygiene laws and strong competition, the 'Pop Factory' closed its doors finally in the 1950's. When Francis retired, The Mermaid change hands and was converted yet again - this time into a wine bar and then later still into a restaurant. This conversion was done by Norman Coburn - again of television fame - but in this case the opposite end of the spectrum. Norman was an actor and is probably best known for playing the character of 'Fisher' in the Australian 'soap' - Home and Away. In 1980 it was taken over by its present owners who have completely rebuilt it with affection and care, and who, in doing so have made it probably St. Ives’ most interesting and romantic restaurant. We hope you'll visit us soon.

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Mermaid Seafood Restaurant

The Mermaid started its very interesting life as a “Sail Loft” where sails and nets were stored and ...

Mermaid Seafood Restaurant

Dessert1 photo4.86 (2205 reviews)Buy gift vouchers

Dessert
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4.86 (2205 reviews)
Buy gift vouchers