48 Hours In Looe
February 22, 2024Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Cornwall, lies the quaint fishing town of Looe. With its winding streets, historic harbours, and breathtaking vistas of the sea, Looe is a destination that captivates the hearts of all who venture here. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Looe offers an array of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Get ready to embark on a journey, to uncover the hidden treasures and unique charms that make Looe a must-visit destination for travellers, from near and far. From its rich maritime heritage to its stunning natural beauty, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this coastal haven.
Why Looe?
Looe is fortunate enough to still have a working fishing port, meaning your dinners are guaranteed to be fresh and delicious. From the early morning catch to the bustling fish market, explore the daily rhythms of life on the waterfront and the rich traditions that have shaped this community, on your next visit to the picturesque town of Looe. This vibrant port town has its roots firmly planted in the maritime industry and offers meals bought directly from sea to plate, for a true taste of Cornwall. The hustle and bustle of the harbour, along with the timeless rituals of the fisherman, shows a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged over the years.
This quirky town beholds a treasure trove of boutique shops, each offering a unique blend of character, charm and craftsmanship. From artisanal goods, crafted by local creatives, to chic fashion boutiques, boasting the latest trends, Looe’s shopping scene is as diverse as it is delightful. Whether you’re in search of the perfect souvenir to commemorate your visit, or simply seeking to indulge in a spot of retail therapy, Looe’s boutique shops offer something for every taste and preference. On your next trip to Looe, stroll through the charming streets and explore its eclectic mix of stores, uncovering the hidden gems that await around every corner.
Within this bustling world, finding moments of serenity and peace can feel like a distant dream. Yet, Looe adopts an aura of tranquility, where time away from the stresses of ordinary life, is waiting to be discovered. Far removed from the chaos of urban life, this coastal haven offers a sanctuary, for those seeking respite amidst the ebb and flow of the tide. From the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore, to the whispering winds that dance through the narrow streets, every aspect of this idyllic destinations beckons you to slow down, breathe deeply and embrace the moment. Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature, a quiet moment of reflection, or simply the opportunity to reconnect with yourself and your loved ones, Looe offers the perfect setting for your escape.
From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its emergence as a bustling port town, Looe’s story is woven into the fabric of time, with its streets lined with tales of hardship and heritage. Archaeological evidence throughout the paths of Looe suggested that the town was inhabited as early as 1000BC. The town was renowned for exporting local tin, arsenic and granite, as well as being acknowledged for its fishing and boat building industry. Various records suggest that Looe provided several ships during the famous siege of Calais in 1347, alongside receiving a part in a number of other historical events, such as the war against Napoleon. With remnants of its bold history scattered all through the town, trace the footsteps of those before, along hidden pathways and discover the traditions that have shaped the town’s identity over centuries.
Looe beckons families seeking the perfect blend of adventure, relaxations and cherished moments together. With its sandy beaches, charming streets and a plethora of activities for all ages, Looe is a haven where family bonds are strengthened and memories are made to last a lifetime. From thrilling outdoor adventures, to captivating educational outings, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. Whether you’re hoping to build sandcastles on the sun-drenched shore, sample the freshest seafood at local eateries or uncover museums and wildlife encounters, Looe boasts a charm that will delight children and adults alike.
Dig In
Enjoy a gastronomic adventure within Looe, offering a tantalising array of culinary delights, waiting to be savoured. From freshly caught seafood, to traditional Cornish delicacies, Looe’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious, promising a wonderland of food, that will rejuvenate your tastebuds, no matter what you fancy.
Smugglers Cott, situated in the heart of East Looe, was built in 1420. Relish in the heartiest of local meats, fresh seafood and Cornish ale’s, whilst delving into this restaurant’s historic past, dating back over 600 years. A visit here will surely leave you saying ‘yo ho ho’.
Another fabulous eatery, built on the quay, The Old Sail Loft carries a lot of heritage, as it dates back at least 450 years and is largely kept in its original form. This unique restaurant and pub is known for its seafood, coming straight from its neighbouring harbour, as well as a range of other meats or vegetarian options.
Overlooking Looe’s historical harbour, The Sardine Factory is a stylish and contemporary restaurant, sourcing the freshest of local ingredients daily, to craft a wide range of unique, mouth-watering dishes. This upmarket, yet relaxed, dining venue is a firm favourite with the locals, sure to give you a night to remember. The chef and owner of this restaurant reached the quarter-finals of Masterchef: The Professionals, so you’re guaranteed a high-quality meal!
One of Looe’s oldest pubs, The Ship Inn, is a firm favourite with many of the local fisherman. This cosy setting serves up traditional ales and live music every night, creating an atmosphere full of joy.
Soothe The Soul
Looe stands as a sanctuary of solace and tranquility, beckoning its visitors to relax within the coastal beauty and serene landscapes. Tucked away along Cornwall’s rugged shores, this hidden gem offers a haven where the stresses of everyday life fade away, and the soothing embrace of nature nurtures the spirit. From indoor activities to outdoor escapes, discover your space to breathe.
If you’re into your art, then the Old Lifeboat Station gallery is the place for you. With a range of reasonably priced artwork, and frequent events, this local art centre is a local’s favourite. Find time slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us, whilst admiring unique displays of artistry. Grab yourself some one-off antiques or collectables, on your next family holiday to Looe.
Leave your worries behind and let the soothing sights and sounds of East Looe Beach wash over you. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this pristine stretch of sand offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can unwind, recharge, and immerse themselves in the soothing rhythm of the sea. Whether you’re lounging on a beach towel with a good book, building sandcastles with the little ones, or simply watching the world go by, East Looe Beach offers the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Adventure Seekers
While Looe may be renowned for its tranquil charm and serene beauty, hidden beneath its picturesque facade lies a world of excitement and adventure waiting to be discovered. For the bold and the daring, this coastal haven offers a playground of thrilling escapades that promise to ignite the senses and awaken the spirit of adventure within.
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an escape within the South West Coast Path, which surrounds much of the town. This iconic trail offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the raw, unspoiled beauty of the region while embarking on a journey of discovery and exploration. Whether you’re tackling a challenging section of the path or taking a leisurely stroll with loved ones, the South West Coast Path offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
If you’re looking to explore the waters of Looe, why not hire out a self-drive boat and set sail across the beautiful blue? From the moment you cast off from the harbour, you’ll feel a sense of freedom and excitement, as you chart your course and explore the coastline at your own pace. With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, every moment spent at the helm is an opportunity to connect with nature and create memories that will last a lifetime.
What’s On This Year
Whatever time of year you’re looking to visit Looe, there’s plenty of excitement forecasted for 2024. From events inspired by the local talent, to celebrations of Cornish traditions, your diaries will be overflowing with adventures, scheduled in for the upcoming year.
- 31st March – Easter Egg Hunt
- 18th-19th May – Looe Beer Festival
- 14th-16th June – Made In Looe Regatta
- 29th July-3rd August – Looe Carnival Week
- 15th September – Looe Food & Drink Festival
- 20th-22nd September – Looe Weekender
Now that you’ve got your bucket list ready, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and prepare to fall under the spell of Looe’s timeless charm. As you step foot in this coastal haven, you’ll find yourself swept away by its beauty, captivated by its stories, and embraced by its warm hospitality.