Which is the prettiest village in Cornwall?
When it comes to beauty, Cornwall is king. But beyond its world-famed coastline and picturesque countryside, the Duchy presents visitors with something else to feast their eyes on: pretty-pretty villages.
For more holiday inspiration, check out 10 of the most picturesque harbours in Cornwall and 10 unbelievably beautiful places to visit in Cornwall.
In no particular order, here’s our top pick of Cornwall's prettiest villages to visit...
Mousehole
Once described as 'the loveliest village in England' by Dylan Thomas, Mousehole has to be on the list. A sweeping sheltered harbour and beach staring out over Mount's Bay is the epitome of waterside scenic and is scattered with cafes and galleries. Walk west along this particularly stunning stretch of South West Coast Path for the equally as enticing Lamorna Cove.
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Port Isaac
Doc Martin might have finally bid adieu to the north Cornish village, but its striking beauty remains. Here, a picture of the Conservation Area really does say a thousand words and is also true of another, quieter destination in the vicinity - the oh-so lovely, Port Quin.
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Zennor
St Ives’ lesser-known neighbour is a gem in west Cornwall’s crown. Visit the 12th-century church of St Senara, have a pint in the Tinner’s Arms, devour ice cream from Moomaid of Zennor and lose yourself along the coastal path and hidden coves at whim: everywhere is suitably unspoilt.
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Portloe
The Roseland Peninsula is picture-postcard pretty, and Portloe is no exception. Steep sided valleys cradle the tiny remote fishing village and its stunning aquamarine cove, while scenic walks along the coast path and countryside allow visitors a wild sense of escape.
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Mevagissey
Situated just five miles from St Austell, the picturesque fishing port of Mevagissey is the perfect place to aimlessly wander. Make an excursion to the nearby Lost Gardens of Heligan, sample local seafood and artworks, and roam the working harbourfront for breath-taking views.
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Charlestown
Charlestown’s gorgeous Grade II listed Georgian harbour village and film set comes complete with picturesque pebbly beaches, historic dock and fascinating Shipwreck and Heritage Centre. Spend an afternoon exploring this famous village; you won't be disappointed.
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Coverack
Located between The Lizard and Falmouth, the captivating coastal village presents a beautiful beach and historic harbour built from green serpentine rock: a stunning space to sit and gaze back at the beach and rolling hills beyond.
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Cadgwith
The Lizard is awash with eye candy, from the most southerly point and the village itself to Kynance Cove, the village of Gweek and the entire wider Helford area. However, Cadgwith arguably claims pole position courtesy of its cob and thatch cottages, beautiful twin beaches conjoined by The Todden, and crabbing boats colourfully dotted throughout.
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Polperro
Polperro’s position in the centre of South East Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty combines secluded smugglers coves, pretty coastal paths and verdant valleys, while the harbour’s hub of activity and sprawling seascapes complete the spellbinding scene.
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Helford
Lying on the riverbank near Falmouth Bay, Helford’s charm is irresistible. Wooded tracks line the top of the village and run alongside a network of slowly winding creeks and an array of gardens that combine lush greenery with tranquil water to enchanting effect.
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Where to find them:
Want to visit one of these villages? Take a look at all our holiday homes in Cornwall >
Tags: Charlestown | Cornwall | Mousehole | Polperro | Port Isaac | St Ives | Zennor | Sea Views | Coverack | Village |