
Polperro Harbour
A charming, historic fishing village on Cornwall's South Coast, known for its picturesque harbour and narrow, winding streets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Polperro Harbour
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, historic fishing village on Cornwall's South Coast, known for its picturesque harbour and narrow, winding streets.
"Quintessential Cornish seaside towel very narrow streets. Very traditional lovely scones."

🚗 Parking & Shuttle
Park in the main car park outside the village. A shuttle service is available for a small fee, or enjoy the scenic walk.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The village has steep, narrow, and cobbled streets. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Polperro Harbour
Village center
A picturesque, historic fishing harbor with colorful boats and traditional cottages clinging to steep hillsides.

Narrow Village Streets
Throughout Polperro
Wander through charming, winding alleys filled with artisan shops, tea rooms, and a unique, timeless atmosphere.

Tidal Pool Swim Spot
Near Polperro Harbour
Discover a secluded, pristine tidal pool nestled within the rocks, perfect for a refreshing dip with stunning coastal views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Village Access
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Shuttle
Park in the main car park outside the village. A shuttle service is available for a small fee, or enjoy the scenic walk.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The village has steep, narrow, and cobbled streets. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
💰 Car Park Payment
The car park may only accept change, so bring plenty of coins. It can be pricey for longer stays.
🛍️ Browse Local Shops
Discover unique handmade crafts, local produce, and sweet treats in the charming independent shops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Shuttle
Park in the main car park outside the village. A shuttle service is available for a small fee, or enjoy the scenic walk.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The village has steep, narrow, and cobbled streets. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.
💰 Car Park Payment
The car park may only accept change, so bring plenty of coins. It can be pricey for longer stays.
🛍️ Browse Local Shops
Discover unique handmade crafts, local produce, and sweet treats in the charming independent shops.
🚤 Boat Trips
Consider a boat trip from the harbour to nearby Looe or Fowey for different coastal perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Polperro for its quintessential Cornish charm, historic atmosphere, and picturesque harbour. The narrow streets and traditional cottages evoke a strong sense of stepping back in time. However, the parking situation and the hilly, narrow terrain can be a drawback for some.
"Quintessential Cornish seaside towel very narrow streets. Very traditional lovely scones. Really enjoyed our visits. Parking is in the car park just outside of the village which was 7.50 for 3 hours minimum stay, with prices increasing thereafter."
Mike Bushrod
"An historical fishing town. You feel like taken back in time. Small but beautiful and if you are able to hike or climb it is worth going up the cliff. You can just enjoy the beautiful view."
Mireille Krell
"Really lovely historic harbour, place is like a museum. Parking is out of town, and a bit of a walk, so I wouldn't recommend for people with mobility issues. Car park only takes change, and is quite expensive so you need a LOT of pound coins if you plan to visit."
Nigel budd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Polperro is located on the South Coast of Cornwall. The village itself is largely car-free. The main access is via a designated car park situated a short walk from the harbour. From the car park, you can either walk into the village or utilize a shuttle service for a small fee.
While buses do serve the wider area, getting directly into the car-free village center can be challenging. It's often easier to drive and park, or consider it as part of a wider coastal tour if using public transport for longer distances.
There is a large car park located just outside the village. Parking fees apply, and it can be quite expensive for longer stays. Some reviews suggest it may only accept cash or change.
No, the core of Polperro village is a pedestrian-only zone. Access is restricted to commercial vehicles at certain times. Visitors must park in the designated car park.
Due to its narrow, steep, and often cobbled streets, Polperro may present challenges for individuals with significant mobility issues. The walk from the car park can also be a factor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to visit Polperro Harbour or wander through the village. You only pay for parking.
Polperro is a village and harbour, so it is accessible at all times. Shops and eateries will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon or evening.
Parking fees can vary, but reviews indicate it can be around £7.50 for 3 hours, with prices increasing thereafter. It's advisable to have plenty of change or be prepared for card payments if available.
While the village and harbour are free to explore, specific attractions like boat trips or museums within the village may have their own charges.
Boat trips are a popular activity. While you can often book on the day from the harbour, booking in advance might be advisable during peak season to secure your preferred time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the narrow streets, browse artisan shops for crafts and local goods, enjoy fresh seafood at pubs and restaurants, take a boat trip, or simply relax by the picturesque harbour.
The entire village is incredibly photogenic! Capture the harbour with its boats, the colourful cottages on the hillsides, and the winding, narrow streets. The views from higher up the cliffs are also spectacular.
Yes, Polperro offers a range of dining options, from traditional pubs serving local ales and fish and chips to tea rooms and restaurants with award-winning dishes. The Three Pilchards pub is often recommended.
While the harbour itself might not be ideal for swimming due to boat traffic, there are nearby tidal pools and coastal spots, like the one mentioned near the harbour, that are popular for swimming.
Polperro is an ancient fishing village with much of its structure dating back to the 13th century. Historically, it thrived on the pilchard fishery and later became known for smuggling.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful soft light, ideal for capturing the charm of the harbour and village. Misty conditions can also create a dramatic and atmospheric scene.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow streets and harbour vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the cottages or boats. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sea and sky.
Climbing up the hillsides surrounding the village offers panoramic views of the harbour and coastline. The entrance to the harbour itself provides classic shots.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local bylaws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone. Some videos show aerial views, suggesting it's possible under certain conditions.
Its picturesque cottages clinging to steep hillsides, the charming harbour, and the maze of narrow streets create a unique and visually rich environment, often described as an artist's paradise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the hilly terrain and narrow paths, which might require carrying younger children or using a sturdy stroller. The car park is a short walk away, and a shuttle service can help ease the journey into the village. Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are eateries, having your own supplies can be convenient for little ones.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Enjoy browsing the unique artisan shops, savoring a cream tea at a local tea room, or dining at one of the traditional pubs. The coastal paths offer opportunities for scenic walks, and the tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding and reconnecting. Consider a boat trip for a shared adventure.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Village
The village's prosperity was historically tied to the pilchard fishery, and you can still feel this maritime heritage as you wander. Later, smuggling also played a significant role in Polperro's past, adding another layer of intrigue to its history. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere and imagine life in this ancient fishing port.
While the village is beautiful, it's important to note that the terrain is hilly and the streets are narrow. This makes it a less accessible destination for those with significant mobility challenges. However, for those who can navigate it, the experience is incredibly rewarding and feels like stepping back in time.
The Picturesque Harbour
During high tide, the water level rises significantly, and the harbour can appear quite full, sometimes leading to minor flooding in the lower-lying areas. This can be a dramatic sight and offers a different perspective on the harbour's relationship with the sea.
From the harbour, you can often arrange boat trips to nearby coastal towns like Looe or Fowey. These trips offer a fantastic way to see the Cornish coastline from a different angle and appreciate the rugged beauty of the area.
Photography Opportunities
For the best light, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light beautifully illuminates the colourful cottages and the water. Misty conditions can also create a wonderfully atmospheric and moody scene, perfect for capturing the village's historic character.
Don't forget to explore the higher vantage points around the village for panoramic views of the harbour and coastline. Also, keep an eye out for unique details within the narrow streets, such as colourful doorways, hanging baskets, and the textures of the ancient stone walls.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit