Sacked by the Spanish Armada in the 1600s, nothing remains of old Newlyn. It was promptly rebuilt into the quaint Cornish town it is today. It narrowly avoided large scale demolition by the outbreak of World War 2. Newlyn’s fishing industry contributes millions of pounds to the Cornish economy every year. Within its gigantic 40 acre harbour you can spot all kinds of different fishing vessels like beam trawlers, long liners, crabbers and small open boats used for mackerel fishing out in Mount’s Bay. Most of the fish are sold to buyers in France, Spain and Portugal, although some stock is bought by local chefs. Newlyn is also well known locally and beyond for its hugely popular Newlyn Fish Festival each August when lots of fishmongers sell their wares along the dock to the public. Look out for the bronze Fisherman Statue sculpted by Tom Leper in commemoration of local fisherman who were lost at sea.
The Lizard coast
Art fans will know of Newlyn because of its association with AJ Munnings and The Newlyn School. They were a group of painters known for starting the Plein Air movement in England, after many of them were trained in France. An art school was founded in 1899 by Stanhope and Elizabeth Forbes and the Newlyn set stayed relevant until the 1920s. Many artists still live and paint in Newlyn based studios. See the film ‘Summer in February’ starring Dominic Cooper.
As you would expect, Newlyn has some great fish restaurants. The Smugglers Restaurant has great views over the bay and it recommends the locally landed fishing and shellfish dishes. Wherever possible the chefs use Cornish ingredients in its meals.
The South West Coast path travels through Newlyn and you can walk to Mousehole 3.6 miles to the south if you are a good walker, and also to Penzance and Marazion beyond to the east. The sea views are fantastic.
“Newlyn is a vibrant fishing port for lovers of the sea…”
There aren’t too many shops beyond a few antique shops in Newlyn but Penzance is close by with its choice of chain stores and supermarkets. You can also catch a helicopter to the Isles of Scilly from Penzance if you fancy a day trip to Tresco.
Stay in one of our Newlyn cottages and sample the fresh fish from the morning market, we have a wonderful choice of places to stay. Why not visit our collection to feel inspired?