If you’re searching for a quaint picture-perfect spot, book a trip to Mousehole and you won’t be disappointed. Stay in one of our Cornwall holiday cottages and you'll have the ideal base for exploring.
Three miles west of Penzance, this classic Cornish fishing village boasts bags of character and personality. The harbour is the star of the show, but the narrow streets that spiral outwards are a delight to explore too. With that in mind, here are some of our favourite things to do in and around Mousehole.
1. Soak up the history
With a historic harbour at its centre, this fishing port is packed full of charming old buildings and traditional picturesque fishermen’s cottages. Take a wander around the harbour and the narrow streets that spiral off of it and soak up the historic atmosphere here. Down at the working harbour you’ll see a number of fishing boats, continuing on the tradition.
2. Go shopping
While the beautiful cottages and buildings are a delight to look at, these days many of them now house galleries, cafes and gift shops. So if you’re in the market for some independent goodies, Mousehole is a wonderful place to peruse.
3. Explore literary connections
Famed poet Dylan Thomas married his wife, Caitlin, in Penzance. And after they said “I do” they headed to Mousehole for their honeymoon, which Thomas later declared ‘the loveliest village in England’. During their stay in the village, they chose the Ship Inn as their bar of choice and if you visit today you’ll see a section of the bar (known as Dylan’s Corner) remains dedicated to him.
4. Eat well
Mousehole might be small, but there is no shortage of tasty eateries to tempt you. Head to 2 Fore Street and drool over their menu of locally sourced dishes. Given the location there is a strong focus on seafood here and the salt and pepper squid, moule frites and crab soup are all said to be fantastic. If it’s sea views you’re after, head to Rock Pool Cafe where you’ll enjoy views across Mounts Bay. Keep an eye out for seals! Inside treat yourself to proper crab sandwiches, wedges of cake and excellent hot chocolate.
5. Look out to sea
If the view from Rock Pool Cafe whets your appetite, head back to the harbour and soak up some more of those good views. From the coast path you’ll spot St Michael’s Mount and some 400 yards offshore you’ll see a rocky islet known as St Clement’s Isle. Again, it’s a spot favoured by the local seal population.
6. Visit St Michael’s Mount
If you’re staying in Mousehole for a while, you might like to adventure over to St Michael’s Mount. We’ve written before about the fun you can have exploring the castle and uncovering the legend and myth that has built up over a thousand years. You can explore the fortress, visit the garden or simple have a wander about. There are some excellent spots to enjoy lunch too!
7. Walk the coast path
If all those pasties and cream teas leave you feeling heavy, hit the coast path. While the walks around here are challenging, the views are astounding. Head from Mousehole to Lamorna Cove and enjoy epic coastal vistas and several natural reserves along the way.
8. Go beach hopping
Mousehole is well placed for exploring beaches. At low tide there is Mousehole Harbour beach, but nearby you’ll also find Salt Ponds beach, Porthcurno, Penzance Promenade beach and Lamorna Cove. If you fancy a surf, hop in the car and drive 10 miles to Sennen Cove which boasts swell straight from the Atlantic. For live coastal views, take a look at our Penzance prom webcam!
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