Parking in Polkerris is all about timing. The village itself is tiny, with no on-street parking whatsoever. You either park in the designated area halfway down the hill, or you use the farm fields at the top.
The road down to the beach is steep and narrow. If you see “Car Park Full” signs at the top of the junction, believe them. Turning around at the bottom is a nightmare you want to avoid.
Our Top Picks
Your choice depends on how close you can get before the spaces run out.
- Best for Beach Access (Main): Polkerris Car Park. The official car park located roughly 200m up the hill from the beach. It is the closest you can get without being a resident.
- Best for Summer Overflow: Menabilly/Tregaminon Fields. When the main car park is full, farmers open up the fields on the road towards Menabilly. It involves a 10-minute walk down a track, but it is stress-free.
- Best for Pub Lunch: The Rashleigh Inn. The pub has a tiny car park right on the beach, strictly for customers. You must register your car inside, and spaces are like gold dust.
The Main Car Park
This is where 90% of visitors park. It is privately run and located on the right-hand side as you descend the hill.
Polkerris Car Park
Postcode: PL24 2TL
Capacity: ~120 spaces
Best For: Families and watersports. It is a tarmac/gravel car park. From here, you walk down the final steep section of the road to the beach.
Note: In high season, this fills up by mid-morning. It uses a Pay & Display machine (cards often accepted, but signal can be patchy, so bring coins if possible).
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Overflow & Walking Options
If the main sign says “Full”, drive back up to the junction and head towards Menabilly.
Menabilly Beach (Barton) Car Park
Postcode: PL24 2TN
Capacity: Large Field
Best For: Walkers and overflow. This is a rustic farm car park. It is often run on an “honesty box” system (bring cash/coins) or by attendants in summer. A track leads from here down to Polkerris or Polridmouth Cove.
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Pub & Nearby Alternatives
The Rashleigh Inn
Postcode: PL24 2TL
Capacity: Tiny (~10 spaces)
Best For: Early diners. Located literally on the beachfront. Do not rely on getting a space here. If you do get one, you must register your vehicle at the bar immediately to avoid a fine.
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Par Beach (Nearby Alternative)
Postcode: PL24 2TJ
Capacity: 300+ spaces
Best For: If Polkerris is gridlocked. Par Sands is only 2 miles away by car (or a coastal walk). It has huge capacity and is much easier to access.
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Now that parking is sorted, plan the rest of your trip with our complete guide to Polkerris.