10 Cornish villages you should be sure to visit

Cornwall is famous for its charming villages, both along its coastline and inland, which make the county so warm and full of life and character. Every village has its own history and personality and offers a great alternative to the crowds and chain stores of larger towns. Below we pick ten of the best Cornish villages that are well worth making a detour to visit.

1. Boscastle

Fishing and fishing villages have always been synonymous with the Cornish way of life. Boscastle, situated on a stunning stretch of coastline five miles away from Tintagel, is a perfect little port well worth exploring.

Most of the small settlement is owned by the National Trust and features everything you would expect from a National Trust area – heritage character, natural beauty and an unspoilt atmosphere. Boat trips are a popular activity out of the harbour to see some of Britain’s top seabirds, including Puffins and Razorbills. The village is also home to the excellent Museum of Witchcraft.

2. Mousehole

The charming seaside village of Mousehole has remained an unspoilt and idyllic settlement over the years. The famous Welsh writer, Dylan Thomas, once proclaimed this unassuming little spot as the loveliest village in England – and it’s easy to see why. Narrow streets, granite houses and walls lead down to its little working harbour. The village is also famous for its Christmas lights which can be seen throughout December.

3. Sennen Cove

Sennen Cove’s sandy stretch of beach and tiny village is a popular area for surfers and beach lovers in general. After a day sunning on the beach, you can take the steep road along to the working harbour nearby with its surrounding thatched cottages, shops and cafes. The Old Success Inn, which boasts views over the bay, is a perfect stop off for a spot of lunch.

4. Polperro

These days, regular visitors to Polperro have shifted from fishermen and smugglers to tourists keen to enjoy this ‘Cornish gem’. Its jagged shoreline, coupled with its maze of white buildings and criss-crossing pathways, attract artistic types from all over the UK. The village’s fishing heritage still lives on to this day and is best displayed during the summer when the small harbour is lined with colourful boats and sailing yachts. This village holds a brilliant 9 day festival of arts and music every June.

5. Porthleven

Porthleven is a great quiet alternative to Cornwall’s livelier tourist spots nearby. Its double harbour and stretch of pebble beach are both lovely places for a stroll during the day and into the evening. Porthleven, like many places in Cornwall, has a distinctly artistic side with many craft shops and art galleries. There are also several pubs to rest tired feet after a long day – try the Atlantic Inn one evening.

6. Port Isaac

Some readers may recognise Port Isaac’s ancient streets and cliff-top views from the popular TV series, Doc Martin. Although Port Issac has definitely retained a typical Cornish feel over time, visitors can still find plenty of shops, accommodation, restaurants and pubs in this small settlement. Horse riding, cycling and surfing are popular activities around the beautiful area.

Port Isaac was also popular with the local tourism experts who helped put together our Ultimate Cornwall Guide. Explore their favourite places to visit in Cornwall.

7. Portloe

The unspoilt village of Portloe offers both impressive and beautiful views from its craggy, cliff top perch. This historic fishing village, which once played host to smugglers, has escaped development due to its slightly precarious position within a steep valley. Fishing, lobster and crab potting are still commonplace in the truly enchanting village of Portloe.

8. Looe

If you fancy going somewhere a bit livelier while still retaining that traditional Cornish feel, Looe may be the place for you. Out of the two Looe’s (east and west), East Looe is definitely the busiest with its classic working fishing harbour, bustling shopping areas and golden, sandy beach. Rick Stein has championed the fish caught here for years.

9. Cadgwith

Cadgwith, close to Lizard Point, boasts many beautiful inlets, bays and coves nestled into this quiet area along the Cornish coastline. After discovering hidden treasures in a cove or two, visitors can then wander up to the village with its patchwork of white-washed cottages and stone walls.

10. Mullion

Plenty of amenities and activities can be found in Mullion, the largest village on the Lizard. Over time, the idyllic spot with its working harbour has grown into a thriving tourist area with shops, restaurants, galleries, pubs and a golf course. Nearby Poldhu Cove as well as Pollurian Cove are both ideal family-friendly beaches.

Not only is Cornwall one of the most beautiful counties in England, it is also home to some of the best coastal villages in the UK. Hopefully this guide has given you enough quieter family-friendly options to help escape the tourist traps and find the real Cornwall.