Arguably England’s most quintessential Cornish village, the fishing harbour of Polperro is a picture-postcard destination that evokes a time long-passed. A mish-mash of traditional colour-washed cottages built into a steep cove, Polperro is full of surprises. Walk the historic streets and alleys and discover Roman and Saxon features, the House of Props and the quirky Shell House.
Shopping is a popular activity in Polperro thanks to a wealth of small art, craft, boutique and gift shops that fill the tiny, car-free cobbled lanes of the centre. You can find out more about the mischievous history of the village at the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing.
Polperro is the perfect base for exploring the entire Looe and Polperro Heritage Coast, part of both the wider South Cornwall Heritage Trail and the South Coast AONB. Highlights include Chapel Pool, a natural rock pool which is perfect for families, thanks to its safe swimming waters, as well as the popular Polperro Beach or the more secluded and dog-friendly Talland Bay. Dog walkers can also head inland along the River Fowey, where the Area of Outstanding Beauty continues through ancient oak woodland, past pretty villages and over picturesque creeks to the tranquil village of St Winnow.
Visitors can choose from a number of self-catering accommodation options in Polperro, from cosy, romantic options in traditional fisherman’s cottages, to larger, family-friendly houses. The holiday cottages Polperro has to offer include pet-friendly accommodation, perfect for dog-owners as well a wide choice of homes with stunning sea views. Those looking for a little luxury will find large manor houses on the outskirts of the town, complete with amenities such as a pool and hot tub.