Polperro is a beautiful fishing village on Cornwall’s south coast. There are plenty of enjoyable activities to do in Polperro, including relaxing on the beach, exploring the village’s smuggling history, taking scenic coastal walks, visiting galleries, and experiencing some great pubs and restaurants.
I’ve been visiting Cornwall every year since I was a child, and Polperro remains one of my favorite places to escape from the hustle and bustle. It attracts fewer tourists than Newquay and other big resorts, making it a perfect spot for unwinding amid the UK’s finest scenery.
Some must-visit spots in Polperro include unique museums, galleries, parks, gardens, bays, coves, and its stunning coastline. As a working fishing village, Polperro is also an excellent place to savor some of Cornwall’s best seafood.
One of the top things to do for first-time visitors is taking the Harbor and Headlands walk. This 3-mile loop gives a good introduction to the village, passing by narrow streets, fisherman’s cottages, the harbor, Polperro beach, and the Grade II listed Roman Bridge. It’s a fantastic way to see many of the village’s scenic parts and is suitable for all ages, although some cliff sections lack fencing.
Polperro has always been connected to the sea, with fishing being a central part of its history. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was also a hotspot for smugglers. The Heritage Museum of Fishing and Smuggling, located in an old pilchard factory by the harbor, offers an interesting glimpse into this past through exhibits and photographs. It’s open daily from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm and costs £3.00 for adults (free for kids under 16).
The village has a small, sheltered beach outside the harbor walls, making it ideal for families. However, the beach is only accessible at low tide. For larger sandy beaches and surfing, you’ll need to head to Newquay, which is about an hour’s drive away.
One of the oldest buildings in Polperro is the rustic Noughts and Crosses Inn, a pub set in a 16th-century bakery. This cozy spot offers a wide selection of Cornish beers, ciders, and wines, along with a menu featuring the freshest local produce. The pub’s outside decking area provides stunning views of the village and harbor. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if it’s raining.
Another fun attraction is the famous Model Village, a miniature version of Polperro that’s over 60 years old. It includes a model railway and an indoor puppet show called the Land of Legend, which recounts the village’s myths and smuggling tales. The Model Village is open from Sunday to Friday, 10:30 am to 5:00 pm, with tickets costing £3.00 for adults and £2.00 for children.
Exploring nearby Fowey, a small port town 7 miles away, is another great activity. A guided evening walking tour will introduce you to Fowey’s history, architecture, and literary connections. Afterward, consider dining at one of Fowey’s restaurants, like Appleton’s Bar and Restaurant, which specializes in local seafood.
For those who enjoy being creative, Coffee Cake Create is a unique arts space offering various workshops alongside great coffee. You can check their schedule to see what’s available during your visit. The venue is open from Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and until 7:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Boating is another popular activity in Polperro, with trips running from Easter until November. Options include a 30-minute pleasure trip around the harbor and headland or a boat ride to the nearby town of Looe. Prices are £8.00 for the harbor trip and £12.00 for a one-way trip to Looe.
Looe itself is worth visiting for its shops, restaurants, and pubs. It’s fun to walk to Looe and take the boat back to Polperro. The town features attractions like the old jail and East Looe beach.
The Ebeneezer Gallery, housed in an old chapel, showcases works from the East Cornwall Society of Artists. Open daily from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, it offers free entry and regularly hosts workshops.
Restormel Castle, near Polperro, is another excellent place to visit, offering fantastic views and summer performances in its outdoor theater. The castle is known for its perfectly round walls and is one of four Norman castles in Cornwall. It’s open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, with entrance costing £6.60 for adults and £4.00 for children.
If you’re intrigued by smuggling lore, check out Willy Willcox’s Cave at the end of Polperro beach. It’s rumored that the cave was used by William Willcox in the 18th century to hide contraband.
A little farther afield, the Eden Project is one of Cornwall’s most famous attractions. Located a 40-minute drive from Polperro, it features large biodomes housing tropical rainforests and other climate zones. It’s open daily from 9:15 am to 6:00 pm, with tickets costing £32.50 for adults and £11.00 for children.
Padstow, about an hour’s drive away, is another favorite spot, known for its picturesque harbor, great pubs, and top-notch restaurants. It’s a wonderful place for a day trip from Polperro.
Depending on how long you stay in Polperro, you can plan various itineraries. For a single day, a morning walk along the harbor and headlands, lunch at the Crumplehorn Inn, an afternoon boat trip, and an evening meal at Noughts and Crosses would be ideal. For a longer stay, include visits to the Model Village, a walk to Looe, and a trip to the Eden Project or nearby Fowey.
When it comes to accommodations, Polperro offers a range of options. The Lobster Pot is a cozy, stylish apartment close to the harbor, perfect for small families or groups. Another option for a romantic getaway is a charming one-bedroom cottage within walking distance of the village’s main attractions. Larger families might prefer a Grade II listed three-bedroom property right on the harbor, complete with modern amenities.
Polperro has some fantastic dining options too. Michelle’s Restaurant offers fresh Cornish seafood and local farm produce, while The Three Pilchards pub serves locally brewed beers and British pub classics. The Crumplehorn Inn, located in an 18th-century mill house, has a diverse menu featuring both traditional and contemporary dishes.
While Polperro doesn’t have its own airport, Newquay International Airport is just 33 miles away, offering direct flights to various UK and European destinations. The village is best reached by car, but it’s also possible to get there by train to Bodmin and then a bus for the final leg of the journey.
Once you’re in Polperro, getting around is easy on foot, and nearby towns are accessible via the coast path. Renting a car is recommended for exploring further afield.
Polperro is one of the prettiest villages in the UK, known for its small harbor and smuggling history. The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when you can enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.
Polperro offers a range of independent shops and basic amenities for visitors. With so much to see and do, it’s a perfect spot for a quaint and relaxing getaway. From cozy pubs to smuggler tales, Polperro has a unique charm that keeps visitors coming back.
