Top things to do in Polperro

The picture-perfect, 13th-century fishing village of Polperro sits along the magnificent Polperro Heritage Coast in the southeast of Cornwall. Nestled on the dramatic stretch of coastline known for its rugged cliffs, hidden coves and rolling hills, the quaint Cornish village is the epitome of tradition and charm.

Admire the whitewashed cottages steeped on the hillside as you wander along the delightful harbour of what was once a thriving fishing port. Absorb the historic charm as you pass through the winding narrow lanes now scattered with independent shops and eateries, before taking a pew in one of the traditional Cornish Polperro pubs with wonderful harbour and sea views.

We’ve created this helpful guide to Polperro to make planning your trip that much easier. And whilst you're in planning mode, why not take a look at our selection of places to stay in Polperro including characterful cottages with warming wood burners, dog-friendly abodes and perfect, romantic boltholes offering easy access to the heart of the village.  

Polperro cottages

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• About Polperro
• Polperro attractions
• Beaches around Polperro
• Restaurants in Polperro
• Pubs in Polperro
• Shopping in Polperro
• Walks around Polperro
• Map of things to do in Polperro

About Polperro

Rich in maritime history and once a bustling fishing port, the idyllic village of Polperro is infamous for its role in smuggling contraband during the late 18^th and early 19^th centuries. Smuggling was prevalent during this time, and Polperro’s maze of narrow streets and alleyways made for the perfect conditions for such nefarious activities. Visit the village museum and uncover more about this devious slice of history.

With its winding streets, parking is not allowed within the village or around Polperro Harbour. There is a spacious car park providing plenty of Polperro parking, located at the top of the village. The car park provides spaces for cars, coaches and disabled parking. During the summer there is a horse bus service and an electric minibus service into the village.

Many cottages in Polperro have an allocated parking space and a drop-off point to aid with luggage. See individual cottages for more details.

Polperro attractions

Get the best from your stay in the area. Check out these local attractions and find all you need to know to keep your loved ones busy on your break.   

Polperro Harbour

The village is centred around its glorious natural harbour, the hub of its fishing industry for centuries. Stroll the peaceful, traffic-free area alongside the bobbing boats, breathe in the salty sea air and listen to the gulls overhead. The small quay is lined with delightful shops, pubs and seafood restaurants.

Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing

Housed in what was the Old Pilchard Factory until the early 20^th century, discover the remarkable past of this beautiful seafaring village at the harbourside heritage museum. Uncover the history of fishing and smuggling from the late 18^th century to date, before stopping off at the tearoom, which of course, enjoys picturesque harbour views.

Polperro Model Village 

This remarkable Cornish attraction is a delight for all ages. Step into Polperro Model Village where you’ll find a miniature reproduction of the real ancient fishing village. Having been reduced to scale, the attraction allows you to appreciate the beauty of this area from an aerial perspective.

On the same site, you will also find the 00 gauge model railway, depicting rural country life with many interesting parts and features. As well as the Land of Legend, a unique representation of tales of folklore pirates and smugglers in ancient Cornwall – depicted through miniature models of course!

Polperro Boat Trips 

Admire Polperro from the sea. Climb aboard a boat and venture out of the harbour to take in the stunning coastline of this jaw-dropping part of Cornwall. Polperro Boat Trips offer an array of excursions to suit your crew including a half-hour jolly spotting local seal life, sea birds and hidden coves, and trips to Looe, with the option of a one-way ticket for those preferring to return along the scenic coastal path.

Beaches around Polperro

When you visit Cornwall, you’ll undoubtedly want to take in some of its many stunning beaches. Discover a choice of soft sands, rock pools, rugged rock faces and various amenities as well as Chapel Pool. The scenic tidal pool is perfect for a spot of wild swimming and is ideal for families with smaller children.

Polperro Beach

Visit the village’s small yet delightful sandy beach that revels in a sheltered position just outside of the harbour walls. Sit on Polperro Beach, admiring the coast and fishing boats as they return to the harbour – grab your nets and uncover the world of marine life living in the rock pools. Make sure to check the tide times so you’re not disappointed, as the beach disappears at high tide.

Talland Bay

Found between Polperro and Looe, the two hidden coves of Talland Bay make for a wonderful spot to give Rover a run and let the salty sea air fill your lungs. Take buckets and spades to explore the many rock pools and stop for refreshments at the beach café.   

Lansallos Cove

Also known as West Combe, Lansallos Cove is a secluded, small sand and shingle beach located in Lanlivet Bay, to the west of Polperro. Ideal for those who seek an unspoilt slice of nature, the cove has a small waterfall over on its eastern side.

Hannafore Beach

Situated along the west coast from Polperro, Hannafore Beach stretches from Hannafore Point towards Looe. Its southeast-facing position makes for the perfect suntrap but most loved is the stony, rugged terrain and plentiful rock pools that spring up twice daily at low tide.  

Restaurants in Polperro

If you’re looking for a place to dine to mark your memorable trip, then book a meal at one of the wonderful Polperro restaurants for a truly unforgettable dining experience.  

Michelle’s

This family-run restaurant serves a whole host of mouthwatering seafood specials amongst other appetising dishes and is famous locally for its Sunday roast. Michelle’s is a friendly little eatery with limited spaces, so we highly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

Turntable

An authentic wood-fired pizza restaurant with a selection of craft beers, wine and soft drinks to accompany your choice of topping. Turntable also offers gluten-free options as well as vegan and veggie alternatives. Opt to eat in, and watch your pizza being prepped and cooked in the open kitchen, or takeaway and munch your Napoli with feet dangling over the harbour.

OXOX Restaurant

Situated just a few paces from the harbour, OXOX offers an intimate evening in the tastefully designed space of this 16th-century restaurant. With a menu offering locally sourced and seasonal ingredients as well as a list of heavenly cocktails at the bar and a chilled atmosphere, OXOX is sure to have you in holiday mode the moment you step inside.

Pubs in Polperro

With all that roaming around and fresh sea air, you’re bound to need a pit stop to refuel and fill hungry bellies with delicious seaside fare and a tempting cold pint. Take a closer look at the pubs in Polperro, including the dog-friendly establishments happy for you to have your pooch in tow.

The Three Pilchards

Step inside and receive a warm welcome from the oldest pub in Polperro. On sunny days, sit back with a refreshing drink on the rooftop beer garden and admire the spectacular views over the harbour below. On colder nights, take a seat by the crackling fire and soak up the ambience of this traditional Cornish pub. If the walls could talk, they'd share tales of smugglers from long ago, but for now, listen to the mix of cheerful locals and happy visitors chatting the night away at The Three Pilchards. Peruse the selection of local ales and order one of the mouthwatering seafood dishes.

Blue Peter Inn

Nestled between the ancient smuggler’s cottages along the harbour, the historic Blue Peter Inn oozes a timeless charm. Hole up on a bench outside and listen to the lapping waves of the harbour directly below or head inside to soak up the warm and cosy atmosphere. The interiors are packed with maritime and nautical décor reflecting the village’s heritage and old-world feel. Choose from the tasty offerings including freshly caught seafood, meats from the local butcher and grazier, and plenty of hearty and wholesome options for vegans and veggies.

The Ship Inn

The perfect spot for locals and visitors looking for a cosy place to settle by the fire, perch up at the wooden bar or head out to the beer garden to enjoy a tipple. As is the theme in this area, the pub nods to its nautical heritage with an eclectic array of maritime-style design touches. Order a dish from their tasty seasonal menu, delicious specials or popular Sunday carvery. The Ship Inn hosts a stack of live music, quiz nights and other special events, so check ahead and make the most of your visit to this delightfully vibrant village pub.

Shopping in Polperro

No trip to a quaint little village is complete before you’ve delved into the independent stores to explore the treasures on their shelves. And the Polperro shops do not disappoint for those wanting to take home special trinkets and holiday souvenirs.

Silver Seas jewellery

Step into the viewing area and watch as original handcrafted pieces are created in front of your very eyes. Available in silver, gold and rose gold, the unique collection at Silver Seas Jewellery includes bracelets, chains, pendants and much more.

Tiswithet Polperro

From all your last-minute beach day needs to holiday gifting for your loved ones back home, Tiswithet has your holidaying back covered. They have a wonderful collection of home décor pieces, including delightful mugs, coasters and candles. This quaint little shop is packed full of potential holiday-pocket-money purchases.

Ocean’s Studio

Polperro’s own distributor of unique and exquisitely handmade Moorcroft pottery, Ocean Studio also has a collection of spectacular modern paintings from their collection gallery in East Africa. We definitely recommend taking a look inside at these gems.

Walks around Polperro

There's no better way to experience the magnificent Cornish countryside and coastline than taking to the many footpaths and trails. Soak up the views with the wind in your hair and your pooch by your side.  

Harbour and headlands walk

This figure-of-eight walk will have you venturing around the fishing village and surrounding headlands of Polperro as you take in the harbour, tidal pool and lighthouse along the way. You’ll want to pack your camera to snap the bounty of photogenetic scenes.

Talland Bay to Polperro

A circular walk treading along the South West Coast Path, this route ventures along the infamous coastland renowned for its smuggling past. At low tide, look out for the secluded Lekerok Cove which emerges to reveal its sandy shores.  

Polperro to East Coombe

For those seeking a challenging ramble, this moderate walk will be worth your efforts. Hike above the magnificent coastal views from the footpath and through pretty meadows as the circular route folds back around.

Map of things to do in Polperro

Self-catering cottages in Polperro

Now you’ve read our Polperro guide, find your perfect getaway from our collection of self-catering holiday cottages nestled around the village and surrounding area. Browse our romantic boltholes for two, larger holiday homes for families and groups, and dog-friendly stays to start planning your break by the picturesque seaside village.

Polperro cottages