10 of the best Cornish towns to get lost in!

Discover 10 of the best Cornish towns, by exploring the county the local way.

Cornwall is renowned for its vibrant landscape, azure seas, cobbled lanes, golden sands, and picture-postcard expanses; as well as the plethora of quaint seaside villages that bring Cornwall to life. So take a look at our list of some of the best Cornish towns below to experience Cornwall like you’ve never seen it before. 

Mousehole

You can find this tiny harbour village en route to the ends of Cornwall itself. Passing through Penzance, and through Newlyn, you will eventually come to this Cornish town. Well-used fishing boats, narrow streets filled with beautiful shops and the sea stretched out before you. You should also visit The Old Coastguard, where you can stay, dine and drink to your heart’s content. 

Porthleven

We are lucky enough to call Porthleven home, and feel very grateful to enjoy the local pubs and eateries all year round. In the summer she transforms into a bustling village where the sea sparkles and the sun beats down. Locals and tourists alike exploring the boutique shops that surround the harbour. We highly recommend a trip to the oldest inn that this Cornish town has to offer: The Ship Inn. Here you can find delicious food, good ale and a view unlike any other! 

Padstow

Sitting alongside the River Camel, this popular seaside Cornish town is a favourite for a reason. Stunning views across the estuary and out to sea, excellent pubs, stunning walks and eateries like Rick Stein, and Caffè Rojano by Paul Ainsworth. A seafood mecca for good reason. 

St Agnes

This village really is one of the best Cornish towns, as she can be found nestled in an unassuming valley on Cornwall’s north coast. Tiny Cornish roads will see you through the village centre, directing you to car parks perched on cliff tops and craggy hills. This village really was borne out of the landscape, and if its stunning coastal walks and good pubs weren’t enough to persuade you to visit, then perhaps Genkhi will do the trick. Their menu boasts picture-perfect plates that delight locals and visitors from March – October. 

Port Isaac

This seaside hidden gem was put on the map thanks to the hit TV show, Doc Martin. Before this came to be, this village was off the beaten path, enjoying quiet life doing what they do best. Since Doc Martin, they have enjoyed an influx of visitors every year, with folks hoping to snap a glance at Doc’s cottage, or the village pub. If you’re going to visit, you’d be foolish not to experience a meal at Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen. Fresh fish caught from the sea before you, cooked to the highest standard with an explosion of flavour. 

Looe

Going from the north coast, to the south coast, we come to Looe. This Cornish town by the sea can get overlooked thanks to its secluded location. But it is well worth the trip. Bridging the East Looe River, this village is home to charming shops, delicious cafes, stunning beaches and coastal walks for the whole family to enjoy. You can also pay a visit to The Sardine Factory when you get peckish! 

Mevagissey

Located just south of Looe, Mevagissey is known for its beautiful fishing port, and shops that surround the harbour. Once again, this hidden gem makes the most of what’s on its doorstep and provides an extensive range of eateries that serve some of the best seafood that Cornwall has to offer. Just a short drive from here is The Lost Gardens of Heligan. An incredible day out that we highly recommend you visit, so you can experience the stunning selection of plant life they have, and get lost in the jungles of Cornwall. 

St Mawes

This Cornish town really is off the beaten path and for good reason. Located on the very tip of the Roseland Peninsula, on Cornwall’s south east coast, this village has style and class to boot. We recommend a visit to St Mawes Castle while you are there. Where you can explore one of Henry VIII’s best-preserved coastal artillery fortresses, and the most elaborately decorated! 

Sennen

As we go from one tip of Cornwall to another! Sennen can be found at ‘the ends of the earth’, as we like to call it. This tropical escape, located at the most southern tip of Cornwall, boasts a wild, rugged coastline like you’ve never seen before. A chance for you to experience the true Cornwall in all her glory. After a long day adventuring this part of Cornwall, why not rest your weary feet at the Old Success Inn, Sennen. This 17th-century pub offers great food, great ale and a great view! So watch the sun go down over this cove and tick off another Cornish seaside hidden gem off your list. 

Polzeath

To be found just north of Padstow, Polzeath is a small seaside village that draws visitors to its stunning beach all year round, especially in the summer! Open during the summer months, local eatery Cracking Crab serves up some truly delectable seafood straight off the boat. A real treat after spending all day on the beach soaking up those summer rays. This beautiful village is the perfect escape for a peaceful summer in Cornwall. 

There are a number of incredible Cornish towns here. Which is why we are so proud to call this place our home. You can follow us on social media and stay up to date on all things Cornwall, and the best things happening in the county this year! 

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