the classic guide

A guide to the West Country from the people that know…

Porthleven

The shops and cafes of Porthleven cluster around its historic harbour in classic Cornish style. The village has a blissfully laid-back atmosphere.
There are a several good pubs, cafes and restaurants and an excellent fishmongers. Porthleven makes an ideal refuelling spot if you are walking the South West Coast Path as it runs right through the village. There are several small craft shops, one of which designs and makes clothes to order, along with wonderful galleries and gift shops.
From the harbourside you can watch fishing boats come in, several of which you are able to go out on fishing trips with.
When the sea is rough, particularly in Winter, the image of the waves crashing over the harbour wall and up against the clock tower is truly a magnificent and unique sight captured by many an artist and photographer alike over the centuries.

5 Stars

Aug 2015

Loved it

Beautiful harbour village with some lovely shops; not over commercialised. We did struggle to park the car on Saturday evening though! Food in the Rick Stein restaurant was excellent.

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4 Stars

Jul 2012

Pleasant little village

Good for a visit if the weather is not brilliant. Several nice little shops, good deli and pub (The Harbour).
The harbour is a good place to watch the world go by as you eat an excellent baguette or pasty

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5 Stars

Jun 2012

Cornish Charm

We always make a b-line for Porthleven. A pretty little fishing harbour and a sandy beach. Dog friendly as well if you walk to the far end. We always have refreshments at the Kota Restaurant which is on the less commercial side of the harbour. Lovely food and polite service. Then a lovely walk along the cliffs to the memorial to sea farer's.

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4 Stars

Sep 2008

A pleasant small harbour town, not over spoilt by tourism. One or two nice shops and galleries, also a good deli. Can recommend the cafe by the harbour entrance, good ice creams and a nice pot nof tea. Good for a quick visit if out and about.

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5 Stars

Jul 2008

Harbour village

Beautiful harbour village with plenty to do and see. Good beach for swimming and surfing, although beware of the rocks!

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