Looe

Looe is a charming twin town perched where the East and West Looe rivers meet the sea on Cornwall's dramatic south coast. This picturesque fishing port has retained its authentic Cornish character, with narrow cobbled streets tumbling down to a bustling harbour where working boats still land their daily catch.

The town splits across both sides of the river, connected by a Victorian bridge that's become something of a local landmark. East Looe houses the main town with its shops, pubs and restaurants, while quieter West Looe offers peaceful riverside walks. The Old Guildhall Museum tells the story of Looe's smuggling past, and you can still see the medieval stocks on the Guildhall steps.

Looe's sandy beach stretches east from the harbour, perfect for families and backed by the South West Coast Path. The surrounding countryside is classic Cornwall - rolling green hills dotted with ancient villages and dramatic clifftop walks offering spectacular sea views. The nearby Monkey Sanctuary at Murrayton provides a unique day out.

The town sits on the scenic Looe Valley Line railway, connecting directly to Liskeard and onwards to London. Plymouth is about 25 miles east, while Bodmin and the Eden Project are easily reached inland.

With several holiday parks nearby offering different styles of accommodation, Looe makes an excellent base for exploring both Cornwall's coast and countryside. You're perfectly placed for beach days, coastal walks, and discovering the authentic charm of one of Cornwall's most unspoiled fishing towns.