A delightful Cornish fishing village is capturing visitors’ affections with its picturesque harbour, ancient cobbled lanes, charming tidal pool and welcoming sandy beach.

And the cherry on top? Cars are banned from the village, generating a nostalgic ambience evocative of bygone days.

This Cornish gem, decorated with quaint cottages and compact fishermen’s dwellings, is an absolute must-visit. Situated along the South West Coastal Path, the main village is home to approximately 572 people, according to the 2021 census.

The village boasts a substantial fishing legacy and features a traditional harbour, whilst a flourishing artistic community adds to its distinctive appeal.

Its narrow, cobbled lanes are off-limits to cars, meaning drivers must leave their vehicles in the main car park or further away in surrounding areas before continuing on foot or by bus into the village.

There’s an abundance of activities in the scenic village of Polperro. This enchanting hamlet provides numerous attractions for guests, from browsing quirky local shops and museums to discovering the extensive history and dynamic arts scene that pervades its many attractions.

The Polperro Harbour Heritage Museum is a must-see, documenting the village’s fascinating heritage steeped in smuggling and fishing customs. Another site worth visiting 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 pieces by their members.

While there, set aside time for the village’s beloved pubs, The Three Pilchards and Blue Peter Inn, where you can sample hearty fare accompanied by a cooling pint or glass of wine.

The striking coastline surrounding Polperro provides abundant possibilities, from taking a plunge in the Victorian Chapel Rock Tidal Pool (accessed by steps) to discovering rocky beaches and concealed inlets scattered along Polperro Beach. Positioned near the harbour, it’s an ideal spot for swimming and paddling, particularly at low tide.

Guests can also enjoy a leisurely walk along the South West Coast Path, which offers delightful rambles with panoramic vistas. A haven for ramblers, this coastal route delivers spectacular views across the sea and neighbouring landscape, meandering past dramatic clifftops, stunning scenery, and isolated sandy bays along its course.

What travellers are saying

One visitor wrote 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.”

In contrast, another tourist shared in a recent review: “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 coastal village posted 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.”

While another , describing 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 visitor commented on the delightful village: “It’s a bit of a trek from the car park into town, but it’s well worth it when you get there, with quirky little alleyways, adorable smugglers’ cottages, a working harbour offering boat trips and plenty of traditional Cornish pubs. You’ll find ample pubs and cafes to replenish with fresh fish dishes, Cornish pasties or cream teas, as well as numerous independent retailers. You can also embark on boat trips from the harbour and access the south west coast path.”