Polperro

Polperro is a remarkably preserved 13th-century fishing village situated on the rugged south coast of Cornwall, just west of Looe.

Nestled in a steep valley where the River Pol meets the sea, the village is renowned for its narrow, winding streets and ancient fishermen’s cottages that appear to cling to the hillsides.

Historically, Polperro was a major hub for the pilchard industry and, during the 18th and 19th centuries, a notorious centre for smuggling, with its sheltered harbour providing the perfect concealment for contraband.

Today, much of the village is pedestrianised to protect its old-world charm, and it sits within a designated Conservation Area and the Cornwall National Landscape (formerly AONB). With its picturesque stone quays, the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing, and its vibrant artistic community, the village remains one of Cornwall’s most iconic and evocative coastal destinations.

Polperro Guides

• The best places to park in Polperro
• The best things to do in Polperro
• The best places to stay in Polperro
• The best places to eat in Polperro
• 10 fascinating facts about Polperro