7th July 2025 | Richard Berns | commercial property, entertainment, real estate

Sherrards advised The Darkness drummer Rufus Taylor on the purchase of The Shipwrights Arms in Helford, Cornwall, marking a new chapter for the iconic gastropub.

Sherrards’ commercial property and corporate team advised The Darkness drummer Rufus Taylor on the purchase of The Shipwrights Arms, a well-known gastropub with four luxury letting suites in the coastal village of Helford near Falmouth in Cornwall which overlooks the beautiful Helford Estuary.

The freehold acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for the property, which has long been a fixture of the local hospitality scene. The venue attracted national media coverage following the purchase, not only for its iconic location but also due to the involvement of Rufus’ father, Queen drummer Roger Taylor, in supporting the transaction.

Sherrards advised on all legal aspects of the acquisition, including property due diligence, negotiation of the contract, and commercial considerations relevant to the site’s future use. The deal involved a heritage property with mixed use and strategic potential, requiring clear and pragmatic legal advice throughout.

Senior Consultant Solicitor, Richard Berns led the transaction for Sherrards, drawing on significant experience in commercial property to guide the process from initial instruction through to completion. Jean-Paul Da Costa led the business aspects of the acquisition working hand in hand with Richard, as they have done many times over the last 30 years.

Sherrards are pleased to have played a role in supporting Rufus on this high-profile acquisition and look forward to seeing how The Shipwrights Arms continues to evolve under its new ownership.

For a taste of what’s to come (and perhaps a pint with a side of rock’n’roll), visit The Shipwrights Arms.