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Looe and Polperro, located in southeast Cornwall, are approximately fifteen miles from the center of Plymouth. These charming seaside resorts are not just picturesque but also rich in historical and cultural heritage, particularly in the fishing industry.
Looe, a bustling fishing village and seaside resort, is known as the primary base for shark fishing in the UK. The village, divided into East and West Looe by the River Looe, is connected by a renowned seven-arch bridge that opened in 1853, replacing a burnt-down wooden predecessor.
In the 19th century, Looe grew into a significant port, trading tin, arsenic, and granite with France and the nearby continent. During this period, fishing and boat building established themselves, making Looe an essential center for pilchard fishing.
Modern-day Looe attracts numerous tourists drawn by its unique charm and ambience. It offers stunning sea views, narrow winding streets, quaint cottages, and a variety of shops. The village is also home to numerous pubs and restaurants where visitors can savor local seafood. A foot passenger ferry service is available between East and West Looe.
Looe is a renowned center for recreational fishing. Visitors can hire boats for mackerel fishing or other species. Advanced booking is recommended for reef or wreck fishing trips. The Shark Angling Club of Great Britain is also based in Looe, offering trips to fish for Mako and Porbeagle sharks. Most caught sharks are tagged and promptly released back into the sea.
East Looe boasts of a broad sandy beach and the famous Banjo Pier. Fishing boats landing their catch and several fish dealers can be found along the estuary. West Looe, on the other hand, offers various hotels, shops, and restaurants, along with the stonier and narrower Hannafore beach. A boat trip from East Looe will give you a glimpse of Looe Island, located approximately two miles offshore.
Not far from Looe is Polperro, a tiny, picturesque fishing village. With its narrow streets, charming cottages, and small harbour, Polperro is a sight to behold. The streets are so narrow that cars are banned, and a horse-drawn wagon or an electric tram offers access to the village from the main car park.
Polperro was once a hub for pilchard fishing, but tourism now primarily drives its economy, though some fishing boats still operate there. The village straddles the River Pol, with tightly packed cottages dotting the steep hillside. Art and craft shops, small cafes, and intriguing pubs line the twisting, narrow streets, offering a unique experience worth exploring. The magnificent coastline forms part of the South Cornwall Heritage Coast, with the South West Coast Path running along it. Fishing and boat trips are available from the harbor side.
Just a short distance from Looe and Polperro is Antony, an 18th-century house that was home to the Carew family. It's located near Torpoint and offers visitors a glimpse into the past.
The coastal area boasts a variety of activities such as surfing, sailing, bird watching, and walking. Numerous attractions like piers, harbours, fun fairs, and roller coasters, along with a wide selection of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops, are available in the locality, ensuring there's something for everyone.