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Porthleven is an ancient port and fishing village in the English County of
Cornwall situated on the Atlantic Coastline just south of Helston (the most
southerly town in England). It is the most southerly port on the UK
mainland, and the only west facing port in Cornwall; and due to this latter aspect the harbour (that
dates from around 1825) has never been easy to negotiate. Consequently, in past
times it never flourished as well as other Cornish ports. However, because of
its location it became very important for the shipping of tin and other ores
(namely copper, lead and silver) from the nearby mines; and for a period in the
mid 19th Century it enjoyed an extensive and thriving trade in pilchards.
But alike other Cornish coastal villages, Porthleven also has a darker history of Piracy & Smuggling and Wrecking (the
pillaging of those ships unfortunate enough to suffer the vagaries of the
treacherous coastline). There are early photographs of Porthleven that
show the vast number of sailing ships that frequented the port; more than you
could imagine that such a relatively small harbour could support. In the
19th Century as many as 300 ships of up to 200 tons each could be accommodated.
However, today only a small fishing fleet remains, the local mining industry
that dated back some 400 years has gone and Porthleven has become a quiet and
secluded village retaining much charm, character and a wealth of history.
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Porthleven is now a popular vacation destination all year round
and is an ideal location from which to explore the southwestern-most part of
England; being close to The Lizard, Penzance, Newlyn, Marazion (& St
Michael's Mount), Mousehole, Lands End, St Ives, the Port of Falmouth
(& the new Maritime Museum), the ancient town of Helston and Truro, the Cathedral City.
And not to forget the Eden Project that is not too far away.
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The Harbour is the focal point of the village; and the relaxed
pace of daily village life continues as it always did. There are many craft
shops, a pottery, an art gallery and a stained glass studio. For the needs of the self
caterers there is a butcher, baker, a fishmonger of course and a good
supermarket that has a small but fine delicatessen. There are also two
traditional fish & chip shops, a pasty shop and various other local shops
including a Post Office. And just in case of mishaps there is a chemist and a
doctor's surgery.
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During the day there's plenty to do locally. There are some
three miles of golden beach upon which to relax, Alternatively, taking a stroll
along the coastal walks will reveal spectacular views over Mounts Bay to the west or, to the east,
Loe Bar; a silted area that separates the sea from Loe Pool, Cornwall's largest
inland freshwater lake (owned by The National Trust and open to the public).
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For the less sedentary occupations there are many water borne activities to enjoy;
for example boat and fishing trips. And whilst the sea can be very dangerous along this coastline,
Porthleven is a popular destination for those seeking the surf. And if you time your visit well you may
witness various spectacular events that take place around the Harbour, the most important being the
Lifeboat and Gig days (when traditional working boats are raced).
On the right is Lifeboat Day 2001
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In the evenings visitors taking a stroll around the old harbour will discover the hospitality
of several fine restaurants, some specialising (unsurprisingly), in fish;
and three very friendly inns that also serve excellent meals.
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And later in the evenings...
...the sunset might be stunning.
We hope you catch some of these!
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We discovered Porthleven ages (aeons) ago and in recent years have been fortunate enough to
live here and enjoy its tranquil way of life. There is a warm welcome awaiting you in Porthleven
(the same that we enjoy).
We hope that you visit Porthleven and enjoy its peacefulness and its hospitality.
We are confident that once you have discovered Porthleven you will want to return.
Enjoy!
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