Polperro
The character filled village of Polperro with its narrow streets and sea views charms visitors each year and is a popular place to visit in Cornwall. Apart from enjoying this village there are many other things to attract visitors to this part of the county for a holiday.
Beaches and Sea Life
Polperro’s history and culture revolves around the sea and one of the best places to learn about the village is at the Museum of Fishing and Smuggling. This small attraction packs in a rich heritage from fishermen’s Guernseys to local characters that lived a life of smuggling on the coast. People come to the region for the beaches and although Polperro has a narrow and rocky shoreline there are sandier spots along the coast. One of these is at Lantic Bay which is just a short drive away and renowned for surfing. Neighbouring Looe has Hannafore and East Looe Beach which are popular with families. Whitesand Bay is close by as are many more secluded coves like Lansallos. There are also Downderry and Seaton beaches to enjoy. Polperro is also on the South West Coastal footpath which runs around the entire coast and provides many beautiful walks. You can either go long distance or take a hike to Cremyll or Fowey in picturesque surroundings. Walking in the Tamar valley is another popular day out and within easy reach of Polperro. Polperro has many fishing boats offering day trips to visitors so there’s always an opportunity to catch your own supper. Shark fishing is also popular along the South East Cornish coastline and is also heavily influenced by the conservation issues. Scuba diving along this coast is particularly good for wrecks. Visitors will find a number of cycle trails near here too, especially the Camel Valley. There are horse riding stables and several golf courses within a short drive for those who want to experience the outdoors. Just relaxing with a walk along the harbour and discovering narrow passageways and streets is a great way to get to know Polperro.
History and Heritage
Polperro has many attractions in town including a wealth of souvenir shops. Do look out for the local fishermen’s choir singing on the harbour in summer. Boat trips around the harbour and coast are a great way to see the village and wildlife, especially seals. Some trips go to Looe Island which is close by. Taking a visit to Fowey is popular as there are lovely riverside walks and it is the countryside that inspired Daphne du Maurier. The gardens in Cornwall are another treat especially in springtime when the displays of rhododendrons and camellias are a joy. Try the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Trewithen, or even Saltram House in nearby Plymouth. Restormel Castle at Lostwithiel is very interesting to see and a reminder of the English Civil War and the town itself is full of antique shops. Children will enjoy a visit to the Monkey Sanctuary at Looe. Train rides on the Looe Valley Line are popular too. Spending a day in Plymouth is an option with the Aquarium and Barbican to explore.
Polperro has several delightful guest houses in the village and there are campsites and hotels too. One of the best ways to experience the area is to stay in a self-catering cottage and there are several lovely properties in Polperro. You’ll also find good restaurants and pubs to enjoy, many serving fresh local seafood. There are great farm shops too and lots of places to taste the best of Cornish food. Polperro has a lot to offer the visitor and is a character destination in its own right.