Porthleven harbour wallWith whitewashed cottages dotted around the harbour, Porthleven is the essence of a quaint Cornish fishing village.
Porthleven is nestled between the spectacular Lizard Peninsula and Marazion, home to St Michael’s Mount. Its idyllic location is a huge part of what makes this vibrant village so special.
Porthleven’s iconic clock tower sits at the harbour entrance and is one of Cornwall's most photographed locations. When the tide goes out, a three-mile long beach is revealed below the village, following the coast towards Loe Bar and the Penrose Estate. Outstanding waves make this a popular spot with surfers, while small coves and rock pools make this a perfect family day out. One of the UK’s most beautiful secluded beaches, Kynance Cove, is also just a short drive away. For avid walkers, the South West Coast Path extends from Porthleven to the Lizard Peninsula. Stretching 14 miles across the coast, this unique path will lead you through wilderness and rugged sections of coast.
Porthleven beach
Food lovers will be in heaven here, with an eclectic mix of fine dining restaurants, classic fish and chip shops and traditional pubs, you’re guaranteed a hearty local meal. For brunch, Seadrift Kitchen Café will hook you up with tasty dishes such as waffles with maple syrup and bacon or steak, egg and sautee potatoes. The Square at Porthleven is another fine choice, serving delectable lunches including a Westcountry cheese platter or Porthleven shellfish bisque. Dinner is also a big event in this charming fishing village. Rick Stein’s restaurant offers unique dishes with Cornish infusions, such as the Indonesian seafood curry. If you’d prefer a more informal dining experience, check out Roland’s Happy Plaice for some renowned fish and chips and take a seat along the harbour.
For a post-dinner drink and to enjoy the evening glow of the harbour, head to The Ship Inn or the Harbour Inn for some fantastic local ales.
“With whitewashed cottages dotted around the harbour, Porthleven is the essence of a quaint Cornish fishing village.”
This unmistakable Cornish village has so much going for it. If you’re visiting earlier in the year, be sure to check out Porthleven Food and Music Festival. International superstar headliners, outstanding chefs and the coastal setting make this a truly unmissable event.
Just five minutes away in the market town of Helston, you’ll find stunning architecture, woodland walks and great opportunities for shopping. Helston’s weekly farmers market is one of the largest in Cornwall, with over 35 stalls stocking wild game, cheeses and plenty more local produce.