Looe, Cornwall, England
Situated in South East Cornwall, picturesque Looe is a thriving tourist destination and fishing port, attracting visitors with its sandy beaches, stunning scenery and fascinating attractions.
Admire the sea views and rock pools as you stroll along Hannafore Beach, or, if you love fishing, try your luck at the famous Banjo Pier. For family holidays in Looe, activity options include paddle boarding, horse riding and coastal walks – or, for a less energetic day out, sandy Looe Beach is sure to keep the children happy and occupied.
As well as providing plenty of traditional seaside attractions, Looe also has much to offer history lovers. Looe Museum tells the story of the town’s development as a fishing port, with the opportunity to experience the lives of Looe’s historic people and step into rooms containing 18th century artefacts. After a day of exploring Looe, getting well fed and watered isn’t a problem either – enjoy a locally-made Cornish pasty in one of the town’s cafes, a meal of freshly-caught fish, or a pint of Cornish ale in a cosy inn.
If you feel like exploring further into Cornwall, then Looe is an excellent base. Polperro, located just a few miles from Looe, is beautiful – quaint fishermans’ cottages cling to the hillside above the harbour, while the village’s traffic-free streets make it a pleasure to explore the quirky independent shops and cafes. Head off in the other direction, towards Portwrinkle, and you’ll come to Whitsand Bay – one of the finest stretches of beach in Cornwall, with four miles of sand and dramatic coastal scenery.
Alternatively, drive inland to experience Cornwall at its wildest with a trip to Bodmin Moor – a spectacular area of moorland and lakes, rich in wildlife, that is great for birdwatching. To really soak up the moor’s mystical atmosphere, try the easy 5-mile circular walk from St Breward to King Arthur’s Hall – a megalithic relic comprised of fifty-six stones – with panoramic views of the downs along the way.
Given that Cornwall is one of Britain’s most popular tourist areas, it’s no surprise that Looe and the surrounding area offer accommodation to suit all travellers. There’s no shortage of traditional hotels and B&Bs, and the area also hosts a wide range of holiday parks and camping sites that are ideal for families with children.
So, whether your preference is building sandcastles, putting on the walking boots, or having a heritage fix, Looe is the perfect destination – a blend of family attractions, rich history and stunning scenery that will make you want to return in a hurry.
Photo credit: Gwendrock Twyr
For further ideas of what to see and do, check out the official Visit South East Cornwall site.
