Porthleven is a vibrant town centred around the harbour and surrounded by fabulous coastal walks. The historic fishing port is the most southerly working port in the United Kingdom and has a reputation as one of the most storm battered places with people visiting the town during winter storms to watch the waves crashing over the sea defences. It was a harbour of refuge when this part of the Cornish coastline was infamous for wrecks in days of sail. Porthleven is also known for being a foodie hotspot with some fantastic eateries overlooking the harbour.
Sleeps 4
Beautiful detached two bedroom barn in an enchanting location five minutes from the stunning beach at Praa Sands. *Short breaks available*
Sleeps 4
Set in glorious countryside under ten minutes from a great local surf beach, Granny Polly’s Cottage is a lovely refurbished two bedroom holiday home full of character.
Porthleven has long been a destination for those in the know. It is becoming something of a foodie’s haunt with numerous cafes, pubs and restaurants overlooking the harbour and offering great choice. The beach is long and has lovely clean coarse sand. Swimming at the Porthleven end is safe, but not further east at Loe Bar. The National Trust owned Penrose Estate stretches from Loe Bar (a fresh water lake) to the outskirts of Helston and is good walking country that contrasts with the coast.
PORTHLEVEN BEACH – A long stretch of sandy beach located close to the shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants around the harbour. The beach almost completely disappears at high tide and whilst it is lifeguarded during the summer it’s recommended that only experienced surfers get in the sea as there are strong undercurrents.
LOE BAR – around a 25-minute walk from Porthleven and swimming is not recommended due to the dangerous shelving. It’s a lovely walk through the woods to a great view spot with the sea on one side and one of the largest fresh water lakes in Cornwall on the other.
PORTHCEW (RINSEY COVE) – owned by the National Trust and located between Porthleven and Praa Sands. It’s fairly quiet and at low tide there is a lovely little sandy beach which disappears as the tide comes in. The coast line is fairly exposed to powerful swells and the beach isn’t lifeguarded so care should always be taken. It’s a bit of a scramble down and over looking the cove is a well-preserved engine house that once formed part of Wheal Prosper tin mine.
SHIP YARD CYCLES – Launched by local brothers and keen cyclists, Shipyard Cycles offers a fantastic way to explore Cornwall, with a range of bikes and e-bikes to suit your needs for the day.
PORTHLEVEN FOOD FEST – the annual three-day festival held each April attracts large numbers of visitors to the village for its cookery demos, live music and street food.
VERTICAL BLUE ADVENTURES – an adventurous way to explore the Cornish coast. Choose between kayaking, paddle boarding and coasteering tours.
THE CUSTOMS HOUSE GALLERY – find a diverse collection of original art work by some of Cornwall’s finest artists. Established over 20 years ago and occupying a bright and airy space on Porthleven’s historic harbour side it’s worth a trip while wandering around the harbourside.
FOUR CROWS GALLERY – explore handcrafted ceramics, glass work, silver jewellery, textiles, paintings, prints, cards and much more in this independent art gallery located in the heart of Porthleven.
WALKING – when the tide is out, you can walk along to Loe Bar and the Penrose Estate from the granite pier of the harbour. The South West Coast Path also stretches beyond Porthleven and offers exceptionally beautiful views.
SHOPPING
QUAYSIDE FISH – an award-winning Cornish fishmonger who offer a complete taste of Cornwall with fresh fish and seafood as well as high quality Cornish meats sourced from local farms.
SAPLING AND BUD – found in a hand-painted van on the edge of Porthleven’s harbour. Sampling and Bud has an array of succulents and houseplants with friendly advice and tips on how to care for them.
PORTHLEVEN SUPERMARKET – a small family-owned supermarket stocking a wide range of groceries and local products.
PORTHLEVEN MARKET – a lively indoor and outdoor market featuring a range of independent vendors selling gourmet food, art, jewellery, clothing and vintage goods.
EATING
THE MUSSEL SHOAL – drinks and delicious seafood dishes are served daily from their shack next to the harbour. Take a seat along the harbour wall and watch the day go by. It is weather-dependant though so worth checking their social media.
KOTA KAI – a brilliant restaurant with a tasty menu of Asian inspired seafood dishes and lovely cocktails.
HARBOUR INN – a scenic pub overlooking the harbour that serves fantastic food all year round using fresh local produce. Dog friendly.
THE SQUARE – located in the centre and overlooking the harbour, The Square is a wonderful sunny spot to enjoy the view with a relaxed atmosphere and a great menu.
TWISTED CURRANT – a traditional tea room with a welcoming atmosphere and varied menu specialising in the traditional cream tea.
NAUTI BUT ICE – situated on the historic harbour ide of Porthleven serving coffee, homemade cake and Roskilly's ice cream.
AMELIES – overlooking the picturesque fishing harbour, Amélie is a restaurant inspired by the sunshine of the Mediterranean and the beauty of the Cornish coast.
PHILPS PASTIES – famous for their pasties and are considered to sell the best Cornish pasty. Their Porthleven shop is close to the harbour and you can take home locally made tea towels, buttery fudge, sweet honey and Cornish biscuits with your lunchtime pasty.
CED’S BAGELS – artisan bagel maker located in the Shipyard. Hand rolled and freshly baked each morning on site directly behind the hatch in the bakery, these tempting bagels are filled to order with a range of exciting flavours.
