A picturesque Cornish fishing village is capturing the affections of tourists with its beautiful harbour, ancient cobbled lanes, charming tidal pool and welcoming sandy shore. The cherry on top?

Motor vehicles are banned from the village centre, evoking a sense of nostalgia for bygone eras.

This Cornish gem, featuring quaint cottages and modest fishermen’s dwellings, is essential viewing for any visitor. Situated on the South West Coastal Path, the main settlement is inhabited by approximately 572 people, as recorded in the 2021 census.

The village boasts a substantial fishing legacy and possesses a traditional harbour, whilst a flourishing creative community adds to its distinctive character.

Its slender, cobbled thoroughfares are off-limits to motor vehicles, requiring drivers to leave their cars in the central car park or beyond in surrounding locations before continuing their journey on foot or via bus into the village.

Activities and attractions

There’s an abundance of things to experience in the enchanting village of Polperro.

This mesmerising hamlet presents numerous attractions for guests, ranging from browsing quirky independent shops and museums to discovering the fascinating heritage and dynamic cultural scene evident throughout its various points of interest.

The Polperro Harbour Heritage Museum is a must-see attraction, documenting the village’s fascinating past steeped in smuggling and fishing heritage.

Also worthy of a visit is the Polperro Arts Foundation, a charitable body committed to promoting and exhibiting local artistic talent.

They operate a gallery within the Polperro Village Hall, featuring creations from their membership.

Whilst there, be sure to visit the village’s beloved pubs, The Three Pilchards and Blue Peter Inn, where you can savour hearty fare accompanied by a cool pint or glass of wine.

The rugged coastline surrounding Polperro provides numerous possibilities, from swimming in the Victorian Chapel Rock Tidal Pool (accessible via steps) to discovering rocky beaches and tucked-away coves scattered along Polperro Beach. Located near the harbour, it’s an ideal spot for bathing and paddling, particularly at low tide.

Tourists can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the South West Coast Path, which offers delightful rambles with panoramic views.

A haven for ramblers, this seaside route provides spectacular vistas over the sea and neighbouring landscape, meandering past striking clifftops, stunning scenery, and isolated sandy bays throughout its course.

What travellers are saying

One tourist said on Tripadvisor: “Unique little Cornish village with tiny passageways between quaint houses. Feels like stepping back in time. Lovely little harbour but sadly very few fishing vessels still working here. Few nice shops selling handmade goods.”

A separate visitor added: “We stayed in Polperro for our Cornwall trip and it was a good choice. Quiet and some very scenic walks around. It’s like a mini Venice.

“Lovely little shops, galleries and the Blue Peter Inn and the Three Pilchards are bustling with good food, drink and good company. On weekends there will be live music in the evening too. People here are lovely and laid back. “.

Another fan of the seaside settlement wrote on Tripadvisor: “Polperro is absolutely lovely …we are at the end of a week here, and are already making plans to come back. Done the coastal walks to both Looe, and to Lansallos .. stunning .. Every evening we walk down to the harbour, just to sit and take it in.”

Meanwhile, a further holidaymaker, branding it as “out of this world”, wrote: “I will start by saying that Polperro itself is out of this world. It can only be described as a quaint little fishing village with a harbour that offers boat trips to nearby Looe with stunning views aplenty. You can take a walk along the cliffs and beach, and the harbour has plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants to stop in.”

Another added: “It’s a bit of a walk from the car park into town, but it’s well worth it when you get there, with quirky little alleyways, cute smugglers’ cottages, a working harbour offering boat trips and plenty of traditional Cornish pubs.

“You’ll find plenty of pubs and cafes to refuel on fresh fish dishes, Cornish pasties or cream teas, as well as lots of independent retailers. You can also take boat trips from the harbour and access the south west coast path.”