Welcome to Looe, a charming coastal town located in the beautiful county of Cornwall, England. With its stunning beaches, picturesque harbour, and rich history, Looe is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled holiday, Looe has something to offer everyone.
One of the main attractions of Looe is its beautiful beaches. East Looe Beach, the town’s main beach, is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is easily accessible and has all the facilities you need, including toilets and cafes. Hannafore Beach, located on the west side of the town, is another fantastic beach that is great for rock pooling and walking. Plaidy Beach is a quieter option, perfect for those seeking a peaceful day by the sea. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or a romantic picnic on the sand, Looe’s beaches are the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Visit the Beaches
Looe is a town that boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Cornwall. East Looe Beach, the main beach in town, is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is easily accessible and has all the facilities you need, including toilets and cafes. Hannafore Beach, located on the west side of the town, is another fantastic beach that is great for rock pooling and walking. This beach offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great spot to watch the sunset. If you’re looking for a quieter beach, head to Plaidy Beach. This secluded beach has a pebble shore and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
Take a Boat Trip
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Looe is by taking a boat trip. Whether you’re interested in fishing, wildlife watching, or just enjoying the scenery, there’s a boat trip for everyone. If you’re a fan of fishing, you can take a deep-sea fishing trip and catch a variety of fish, including mackerel, bass, and cod. For wildlife enthusiasts, there are several tours available that take you to see seals, dolphins, and seabirds. You can also take a sunset cruise and watch the sun go down over the stunning coastline.
Visit the Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol
The Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Looe’s rich history. The museum is housed in a 15th-century building and features exhibits on fishing, smuggling, and local life. You can learn about the town’s past and see artefacts that have been preserved over the centuries. The gaol, which was used to hold prisoners in the 17th century, is also worth exploring. You can see the old cells and learn about the punishment methods used at the time.
Walk the South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is a beautiful 630-mile walking route that runs along the coast of Cornwall. Looe is situated on the path, and there are several scenic walks that you can take from the town. The walk from Looe to Polperro is particularly beautiful and offers stunning views of the coastline. The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all ages, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. You can also explore the charming village of Polperro at the end of the walk.
Visit the Monkey Sanctuary
The Monkey Sanctuary is a popular attraction in Looe that is home to several species of monkeys and apes. The sanctuary is dedicated to the welfare and conservation of these animals and offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about them. You can see the monkeys up close and watch them play and interact with each other. You can also take a guided tour of the sanctuary and learn about the work that goes into caring for the animals.
Explore the Looe Island
Looe Island, also known as St George’s Island, is a small island located just off the coast of Looe. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including grey seals and seabirds. You can take a boat trip to the island and explore its beautiful beaches and walking trails. The island is a great place for a picnic and offers stunning views of the coastline. You can also learn about the history of the island, which was once home to a monastery.
Visit the Porfell Wildlife Park and Sanctuary
The Porfell Wildlife Park and Sanctuary is a fantastic place to visit for animal lovers. The park is home to over 250 animals, including meerkats, lemurs, and wallabies. You can take a guided tour of the park and learn more about the animals and their habitats. The park is set in beautiful surroundings and offers a peaceful and relaxing day out for the whole family. You can also watch the daily feeding sessions and see the animals up close.
Try the Local Cuisine
Looe is known for its excellent cuisine, and there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes to choose from. If you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in luck, as Looe has some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in Cornwall. You can try local dishes like Cornish pasties, fresh fish and chips, and cream teas. The Harbour Moon is a popular restaurant that offers fantastic food and stunning views of the harbour. The Old Sail Loft is another great option, serving up delicious seafood dishes and locally sourced produce.
Visit the Looe Valley Vineyard
The Looe Valley Vineyard is a beautiful vineyard located just outside of Looe. The vineyard produces a range of award-winning wines, and visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and learn more about the wine-making process. You can explore the vineyard’s stunning surroundings and take in the beautiful views of the Cornish countryside. You can also enjoy a tasting of the vineyard’s wines and take home a bottle as a souvenir.
Go Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in Looe, and there are several fishing trips available for visitors. You can try your hand at sea fishing and catch a variety of fish, including mackerel, bass, and cod. If you prefer freshwater fishing, you can head to nearby lakes and rivers for a peaceful day by the water. Looe is a great place to learn to fish, with plenty of experienced guides and instructors available to teach you the ropes.
Explore the Ancient Sites
Looe is home to several ancient sites that are worth exploring. The Duloe Stone Circle, located just outside of Looe, is a well-preserved Bronze Age monument. The circle is made up of several stones that are over 4000 years old, and it is believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes. The Carnglaze Caverns, located in nearby St Neot, are a series of underground caves that were formed over 300 million years ago. You can take a tour of the caverns and see the stunning underground lakes and waterfalls.
Take a Ride on the Looe Valley Railway
The Looe Valley Railway is a scenic railway line that runs from Looe to Liskeard. The railway line follows the River Looe and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can sit back and relax as the train winds its way through the picturesque villages and rolling hills. You can also take a walk along the river and explore the charming towns and villages along the way.
Go Surfing
Cornwall is known for its excellent surfing conditions, and Looe is no exception. There are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons for beginners, as well as rental equipment for experienced surfers. You can catch some waves at nearby beaches like Whitsand Bay and Polzeath. The beaches in Looe are perfect for surfing, with consistent waves and clean water.
Visit the Polperro Model Village
The Polperro Model Village is a miniature village that replicates the charm and beauty of the real village of Polperro. The model village is a great place to take the kids and offers a fun and educational experience. You can explore the tiny houses and gardens and learn about the history of the village. There’s also a tea room and gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy a cup of tea. The model village is beautifully maintained and is a testament to the craftsmanship of its creators.
Relax and Enjoy the Scenery
Last but not least, one of the best things to do in Looe is simply to relax and enjoy the scenery. The town is surrounded by stunning countryside and coastline, and there are plenty of places to sit and take in the views. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic on the beach or sipping a drink at a local pub, Looe is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. You can take a leisurely stroll along the beach or hike one of the many scenic walking trails. You can also sit back and watch the fishing boats come in and out of the harbour.
Conclusion
Looe is a beautiful town with plenty to offer visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing by the sea, there’s something for everyone in Looe. With its stunning scenery, excellent cuisine, and rich history, Looe is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Cornwall.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Looe?
The best time to visit Looe is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
Are there any beaches in Looe that allow dogs?
Yes, there are several beaches in Looe that allow dogs, including Plaidy Beach and Downderry Beach.
What is the best way to get to Looe?
The easiest way to get to Looe is by car, but there are also regular bus services and a train station in Looe.
Is Looe a good place for a family holiday?
Yes, Looe is a great place for a family holiday. There are plenty of activities for kids, including the Monkey Sanctuary and the Polperro Model Village.
What is the nearest airport to Looe?
The nearest airport to Looe is Newquay Airport, which is approximately 35 miles away.
