on 14/02/2025
Cornwall is famous for it’s rugged, scenic coastlines, charming harbours, and historic landmarks, offers a plethora of picturesque villages that captivate visitors year-round. Whether you're drawn to well-known destinations or seeking hidden gems serving the best traditional Cornish pasties, Cornwall's villages provide a rich tapestry of experiences. Here's an extensive guide to some of the most scenic villages to visit, along with tips on top things to do! Make sure to treat yourselves to fish and chips on at least one visit!
Famed as the filming location for the television series "Doc Martin," Port Isaac is a quintessential Cornish fishing village. Its narrow winding streets are lined with whitewashed cottages that lead down to a picturesque harbour.
Port Isaac Top Attractions:
Doc Martin Tour: Fans of the show can embark on guided tours to explore various filming locations throughout the village.
Harbour Walk: Stroll along the harbour to observe local fishermen at work and enjoy panoramic sea views.
The Golden Lion Pub: This historic pub offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional Cornish fare and ales.
Renowned for its vibrant art scene and stunning beaches, St Ives is a cultural hub on Cornwall's north coast. The town's charming cobbled streets are dotted with galleries, boutiques, and eateries.
St Ives Top Attractions:
Tate St Ives: An extension of the famous Tate galleries, it showcases modern and contemporary art, often highlighting local artists.
The Sloop Inn: Dating back to 1312, this historic pub is one of the oldest in Cornwall, offering a glimpse into the town's maritime past.
Porthmeor Beach: A popular spot for surfers and sunbathers, with golden sands and clear waters. In the summer, St Ives beaches rival those in exotic locations.
Pronounced "Mowzel," this quaint fishing village boasts narrow lanes and traditional granite cottages. It's especially enchanting during the Christmas season when the harbour is adorned with festive lights.
Mousehole Top Attractions:
Harbour Lights: Experience the village's famous Christmas illuminations, a tradition that attracts visitors from afar. Wander the beautiful cobbled streets with a hot chocolate!
The Ship Inn: A historic, quaint pub offering local seafood dishes and harbour views.
Art Galleries: Explore local galleries showcasing works by Cornish artists.
Nestled between steep hillsides and a deep harbour, Polperro is a picturesque village with a rich smuggling history. Its tightly packed cottages and traffic-free streets make it a delight to explore on foot.
Polperro Top Attractions:
Polperro Heritage Museum: Delve into the village's smuggling past and maritime history.
Model Village: A miniature replica of Polperro, complete with working lights and sounds.
Coastal Walks: The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the coastline. You may even be brave enough to take a dip or swim in the lesser known sea pool in Polperro!
With its twin harbour and colourful boats, Mevagissey is a vibrant fishing village that retains much of its traditional charm. The narrow streets are filled with shops, cafes, and galleries.
Mevigissey Top Attractions:
Mevagissey Aquarium: Housed in a former lifeboat house, it showcases local marine life.
World of Model Railways: A must-visit for enthusiasts, featuring extensive model railway layouts.
Fishing Trips: Join a local boat for a fishing excursion or a coastal tour. You can also sample lots of fresh catch from a number of pop ups around the harbour during summer.
Located on the Lizard Peninsula, Coverack is a serene village with a crescent-shaped harbour and a sandy beach. It's an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
Coverack Top Attractions:
Harbour: Watch local fishermen bring in their daily catch or try your hand at crabbing.
Windsurfing Centre: The sheltered bay is perfect for windsurfing and paddleboarding.
Coastal Walks: Explore the scenic paths leading to nearby coves and beaches.
Perched on the rugged north coast, Zennor is a small village known for its historic church and connections to the legendary mermaid of Zennor.
Zennor Top Attractions:
St Senara's Church: Home to the famous Mermaid Chair, carved with a depiction of a mermaid.
The Tinners Arms: A traditional pub established in 1271, offering hearty meals and local ales.
Zennor Quoit: A Neolithic burial chamber located on the moors above the village.
This charming fishing village on the Lizard Peninsula features thatched cottages and a working harbour. It's a place where time seems to have stood still. It’s one of the most stunning harbours to visit, in our opinion.
Cadgwith Top Attractions:
Cadgwith Cove Inn: Enjoy live folk music and traditional Cornish singing on Friday nights.
Seafood: Sample fresh crab and lobster, often caught the same day.
Coastal Path: Walk the scenic routes to nearby coves and enjoy stunning sea views.
Famous for its Georgian harbour and tall ships, Charlestown has been used as a filming location for numerous period dramas, including "Poldark."
Charlestown Top Attractions:
Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre: Explore exhibits on shipwrecks, smuggling, and village history.
Harbour: Admire the historic tall ships and traditional architecture.
Beach: Relax on the pebble beach or search for fossils along the shoreline.
Cornwall’s villages are more than just pretty postcard scenes—they are living, breathing windows into the county’s rich maritime history, artistic heritage, and deep-rooted traditions. Whether you’re wandering the narrow streets of Port Isaac, soaking up the artistic charm of St Ives, or uncovering hidden gems like Zennor and Coverack, each village has its own unique story to tell.
From smugglers’ hideouts to ancient churches, lively harbors to secluded coves, exploring these villages offers a taste of authentic Cornwall at its best. Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful retreat, the character and charm of these historic villages will leave you enchanted.
So, pack your walking boots, grab a pasty, and lose yourself in the magic of Cornwall’s cute, quirky, and historic villages—you might just find your new favorite place along the way!
