Polperro is a beautiful fishing village on the South East Coast of Cornwall. Despite being popular with tourists, and a haven for holidaymakers over the summer, Polperro has retained its charm as a traditional Cornish village. Despite its size there is plenty here to keep you entertained. Here is our list of some of the best things to do while visiting this magnificent stretch of the stunning Cornish coast.

Learn about Polperro’s infamous history as a smugglers haunt
Polperro is so well known for smuggling that it has an entire museum dedicated to its dark history. The Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing highlights some of the more dramatic tales, including that of the Lottery, a ship renowned for its involvement in the murder of a customs officer in 1978.
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Take in some spectacular scenery along the coastal path between Polperro and Looe
This 5.5 mile walk between Polperro and its larger neighbouring town of Looe, takes in some beautiful views out to sea, and passes an early Christian site where the remains of a medieval chapel can be found. Although this walk is dog friendly, beware of the cliff edges if you are travelling with kids. Find out more at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polperro-looe-and-whitsand-bay/trails/polperro-to-looe-coast-walkSpot some of the locations used around Polperro for film and TV
Polperro is such a picturesque village that it can be seen as the backdrop to a number of TV shows and films. Most notably Alfred Hitchcock used this beautiful setting for his 1929 film The Manxmanwhich was shot almost exclusively in Polperro. Why not check out what other locations you can find in the area, including those currently being seen on the latest series of the ever popular Poldark.View the harbour from the sea
Take on a different view of this beautiful village by taking a boat trip from Polperro harbour. Boats usually operate between Easter and November (weather dependent), with a selection including return trips to Looe or Fowey, fishing trips and even a glass bottom boat. There is plenty of wildlife and stunning scenery to take in whichever option you choose.

Visit Polperro beach and tidal pool
Polperro may only have a small beach, but its worthy of a visit. The beach is located outside the main breakwater, and is home to Willy Wilcox Cave, named after the smuggler who reportedly haunts the cave after drowning there when he was trapped by a rising tide. As well as the cave, you can also find Polperro’s tidal pool on the beach. This pool is manmade but can only be reached by steep cliff steps. It is often likened to a giant rock pool, both for its appearance, as well as the likelihood of you taking a dip in the company of crabs and starfish.

Polperro Arts and Music Festival
The Polperro Arts and Music Festival takes place every June. Whilst you may have just missed out for this year, one of the main highlights of the event is the crowning of the Mock Mayor, a folk tradition that is found in a limited number of communities across the UK. The festival has been running since 1996 and is based on descriptions of traditional Polperro festivities from Jonathan Couch.

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​Buy unique and handmade Cornish gifts from Wellydog        
A new arrival in Polperro, this independent boutique sells beautiful gifts reflecting the charms of its location. As well as their handmade seaglass jewellery, and fused glass pieces, Wellydog have carefully selected a handful of craftsmen whose work can also be found in the shop. You will be spoiled for choice when selecting a one of a kind souvenir to take home. Take a look at the gallery to view the  wonderful work on offer, and the shop page to check out their opening times for your visit.

​What do you think? Where do you recommend visiting in the area? Have you visited any of the places we have listed above? Share your experiences in the comments below.