Polruan harbourPolruan is a small, picturesque fishing village in the parish of Lanteglos-by-Fowey. Narrow streets and unspoiled architecture take you back in time in Polruan. The ancient village is renowned for its boat building heritage, and today thrives as a centre for fishing, seafaring and shipbuilding. It is bounded by water on three sides, with Penpoll Creek to the north, Fowey River to the west and the sea to the south. Its unique location makes Polruan one of the most intriguing and indeed charming villages in Cornwall.
The area, Lanteglos-by-Fowey, is packed full of beaches, coastal walks and valleys, offering opportunities for walking, swimming and sailing. Nearby villages Bodinnick, Mixtow and Pont create the remaining part of the parish. Golden, sandy beaches and peaceful coves can be found dotted along this section of coast, including Par Sands, Polkerris, Polridmouth Cove, Readymoney Cove, Whitehouse, Polruan Quay, Lantic Bay and Lansallos Beach.
Cornwall sunset
On the village quay, two traditional pubs still stand, serving fine local ales and food. The Lugger Inn is right by the water and serves delicious freshly caught seafood and pub favourites, including Cornish cow pie and Polruan whale and chips. The Russell Inn is also renowned for traditional pub grub, having stood in the heart of the village since 1832. If you’re stopping for breakfast or lunch in this pretty Cornish village, check out Crumpets Tea Shop. If you’re heading over the water to Fowey, the Fowey Gallery serves some incredible dishes. Try the tender beer-battered calamari or something from their unique tapas menu.
Avid walkers will enjoy the Fowey Hill Walk, overlooking woodland and creek with views of Fowey Harbour. This popular 4-mile circular route includes two ferry rides, from Fowey to Polruan and Fowey to Bodinnick.
“Its unique location makes Polruan one of the most intriguing and indeed charming villages in Cornwall.”
Polruan’s fascinating heritage can be explored in the form of preserved ruins. St Saviours Ruin, which stands high on the hill overlooking Polruan, is the remaining structure of St Saviours Chapel, which dates back to the 8th century. The Blockhouse is another key site, which was built at the end of the 14th century to protect the harbour from pirates.
Fowey’s August bank holiday carnival is not to be missed if you’re in the area. The village starts festivities with a carnival the week before, including a beautiful candlelit procession to the river.