Mevagissey

In Mevagissey, and its smaller neighbour, Gorran Haven, the modern visitor meets the old Cornwall of small, tightly-knit fishing villages and with its quayside pubs and open-air cafes, there is an almost continental feel. Its tiny streets wind past shops and cottages of cob and slate to distinctive twin harbours. Nearby Gorran Haven is a picturesque anchorage in the lee of the spectacular 400ft high Dodman Point.

Both villages have a long, turbulent history well chronicled in Mevaiggsey's museum on the quay. Following generations were smugglers, privateers, even wreckers, before finding some prosperity with the great pilchard shoals of the 19th century.

Mevagissey remains a working harbour. Boats from here and Gorran bring back the skate, lobster, plaice and sole served in the many characterful pubs and restaurants, and introduce visitors to the excitement of sea-fishing. The Old Lifeboat House Aquarium shows the full range of fish found locally. You can also visit the Museum of Model Railways.

Great walks abound, the best taking you to the top of Polkirt Hill from where you can see north to Polstreath Beach and across St Austell Bay to the Gribben, and south to Portmellon Cove and Chapel Point, the gateway to Gorran Haven. In spring, serious walkers will want to continue on the Coastal Path, perhaps to Caerhayes Castle and its famous gardens.

In June there is the added dimension of Feast Week which, with Gorran's smaller carnival, pulls together older threads of Riviera culture; traditional folk music, choirs and recitals; local wine, mead and beer; harbour sports including gig-racing and a Flora Dance through the streets.

Close to the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project.

Text © Restormel Borough Council