This tiny village in West Cornwall is full of charm and certainly makes up for its size in community spirit. Described by Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas, as ‘the loveliest village in England’ you can be sure that you’ll be greeted with spectacular scenery and a pleasant character upon arrival in Mousehole.

Coastal Beauty

Lying within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and set in the beautiful Mount’s Bay, Mousehole looks just like the photo on the front of a picturesque postcard. The idyllic fishing village has a collection of whitewashed cottages, sat against a stunning backdrop of turquoise waters and colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour.

As it has its own small and safe beach, which is close to a number of cafés and restaurants, Mousehole is very popular with families. Children will love playing on the golden sandy beach, perfect for sandcastle building, as well as having a paddle in the clear blue waters.

Like many traditional Cornish villages, the narrow streets that run throughout are brimming with gift shops, tea rooms and art galleries. Make sure to spend a morning or afternoon perusing these, before returning to your cosy cottage in Mousehole.

Heritage and local tales

Legend has it that a man named Thomas Bawcock once braved stormy seas in order to catch fish to feed the starving village. To celebrate his courage, once a year on Tom Bawcock’s Eve, a lantern procession takes place in the village and the residents get together to eat Stargazy Pie. This local dish is a fish, egg and potato pie with a difference, as it is decorated with the protruding heads of pilchards.

Taking place on 23rd December, this event also lies within the spectacular Mousehole Christmas Illuminations, when the village and its harbour are alive with bright lights. You’ll also find the Mousehole Male Choir singing carols on the day of the switch on, which usually takes place on the middle Saturday in December.

In the village, you will also find the house of the last native speaker of Cornish, which is marked with a plaque in memory of Dolly Pentreath who died in 1777.

Explore West Cornwall

When staying in a Mousehole cottage, you’ll be ideally placed for getting out in the great outdoors and visiting a number of fantastic attractions. There are links to the South West Coast Path from the village, including one walk which takes you to the ancient market town of Penzance, where you will also find the spectacular St Michael’s Mount, a must visit on any holiday in West Cornwall.

You’ll also be a short drive from Land’s End, where you can have your photo taken with the iconic sign post, as well as partake in a number of activities that the children are sure to love, such as the interactive King Arthur’s Tale.

If you’re looking to stay in one of Cornwall’s prettiest coastal villages, then make sure to take a look at our collection of Mousehole cottages. Whether you’re looking for family friendly cottages or would like somewhere to stay that is dog friendly, you’re sure to find the perfect base for your holiday in Mousehole.