Holiday Places UK

Located on Cornwall’s southeastern coast, Looe is a picturesque fishing port offering a range of activities for all visitors. There are many things to do in Looe, from golden beaches to historic landmarks, Looe’s charm appeals to every type of traveler. East Looe is known for its lively shops and sandy beach, while West Looe offers quiet landscapes and welcoming hotels.

Looe’s history comes to life in its ancient streets lined with cottages and pubs. Explore the Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre or visit the 15th-century Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol to discover maritime heritage. Nature lovers can explore wildlife reserves like Kilminorth Woods or join a guided walk around Looe Island. For more adventure, head to Talland Bay or Seaton Beach for water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking, all framed by the South-West Coast Path’s scenic views.

Coastal Gems: Looe’s Beaches and Bays

Looe features several beautiful beaches and bays, each with its unique appeal. East Looe Beach offers a sheltered bay with golden sands and rock pools, perfect for families. Whitsand Bay, accessible via a steep path, rewards visitors with expansive views and quiet stretches of sand.

Nearby Polperro features sandy shores that are best visited at low tide, while Plaidy Beach is a serene spot for those looking to escape the crowds. Hannafore Beach, with its quiet shingle shoreline, is a great place to explore rock pools and enjoy panoramic views of Looe Island. 

East Looe Beach: A Sheltered Retreat

East Looe Beach is a sheltered bay with soft golden sands, ideal for swimming and relaxing. The rock pools, teeming with marine life, offer an opportunity for discovery, making it a favorite spot for families. Its proximity to shops and cafes adds to its convenience and charm.

Hannafore Beach: Rock Pools and Island Views

Hannafore Beach is a quiet, shingle beach known for its rock pools filled with sea life, making it perfect for marine exploration. It also offers stunning views of Looe Island, a popular spot for birdwatchers. With fewer crowds and scenic surroundings, it’s ideal for a peaceful outing.

Talland Bay

Located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Talland Bay is a popular stop for its picturesque scenery and a cosy cafe. It is also easily accessed and has parking and toilets. The bay has two distinct areas, one being Talland Sands and the other being Rotterdam Bay.  Both are popular with swimmers though Rotterdam Bay tends to be more shingle than sand.

Whitsand Bay

Dive into Looe’s History and Heritage

Exploring Looe’s rich history and heritage is a captivating experience for visitors. Start your journey at the Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol, housed in a 15th Century building in East Looe. This museum brings to life the tales of fishing, smuggling, and local governance through its intriguing exhibits. The nearby Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre also offers an engaging dive into maritime traditions that have shaped this coastal town.

For those who enjoy walking amidst historical settings, a visit to Kilminorth Woods near West Looe promises more than just scenic beauty. These ancient woodlands are part of a County Wildlife Site teeming with wildlife and brimming with stories from centuries past. Another must-see site is St Dominick near Saltash which boasts a Tudor house with Medieval roots alongside stunning gardens and an operational historic mill on the quay—perfect for history enthusiasts seeking immersive experiences.

Round off your day by visiting Talland Bay’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where you can stroll along two small beaches framed by cafes and rock pools or venture towards Hannafore Beach known for its shingle shores overlooking Looe Island—a serene spot tied deeply with local lore.

Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol: A Step Back in Time

The Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol offers a glimpse into Looe’s past, with displays on:

• Fishing History: Explore exhibits on Looe’s historic fishing industry, featuring ancient fishing gear and tools.
• Smuggling Tales: Learn about the daring smugglers who once operated along Looe’s shores.
• Period Costumes: View authentic period costumes that reflect the local fashions of centuries past.
• Gaol Cells: Step inside reconstructed gaol cells and discover what life was like for prisoners in medieval and Victorian times.
• Hands-on Exhibits for Kids: Interactive, tactile exhibits designed for younger visitors add a fun, educational dimension to the experience.

Seasonal events and themed evenings, such as pirate nights or workshops crafting traditional Cornish items, offer year-round engagement for visitors.

The Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre: Maritime Legacy

The Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre highlights Looe’s maritime history and industrial past. Highlights include:

• Historical Exhibits: Detailed displays cover the town’s fishing history and sardine salting industry.
• Interactive Displays: Try hands-on exhibits that demonstrate boat-building techniques and traditional seafaring tools.
• Maritime Artefacts: Discover authentic artefacts such as navigational instruments, old photographs, and personal belongings of sailors.
• Educational Programs: Participate in educational activities designed for all ages, offering deeper insights into maritime life.

The heritage centre also boasts stunning views of Looe’s harbour, making it both an informative and scenic stop.

Outdoor Adventures in Looe

Looe’s stunning coastline offers plenty of outdoor activities for all ages and interests. From exploring rock pools to hiking scenic trails, there’s something for everyone.

South-West Coast Path: Looe to Polperro Hike

The five-mile section of the South-West Coast Path between Looe and Polperro offers breathtaking coastal views and a moderately challenging trek.

Start your journey from East or West Looe and follow the signs toward Hannafore Beach. Here, you can explore its shingle shores and rock pools. Continue to Talland Bay, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you can stop for refreshments at one of the quaint cafes.

As you proceed, take in the lush greenery and rugged cliffs that define this dramatic coastline. Near Whitsand Bay, the path becomes more demanding, but the spectacular views make it worthwhile. The hike ends in the charming fishing village of Polperro, with its narrow streets and ancient harbor. Polperro’s sandy beach, located just outside the harbor walls, is accessible at low tide.

Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, as parts of the trail are steep and uneven. Pack water and snacks, as amenities are limited until you reach Polperro.

Water Sports: Paddleboarding, Canoeing, and Kayaking

Looe offers a range of water sports, perfect for adventurers of all skill levels. From paddleboarding on calm waters to kayaking along the coast, there’s plenty to explore.

• Paddleboarding: East Looe Beach’s sheltered bay provides ideal conditions for beginners. For a more challenging experience, head to Whitsand Bay, where the open sea offers larger waves for seasoned paddleboarders.
• Canoeing: Enjoy peaceful canoeing along the River Polperro or take in the scenic beauty of Talland Bay, part of the Heritage Coastline.
• Kayaking: Hannafore Beach is a popular spot for kayaking, offering views of Looe Island and rich marine life in the surrounding waters. Millendreath Beach also provides kayak rentals, making it a convenient location for a day of fun on the water.

For organised water sports activities, Adventure Fit Southwest offers guided kayaking trips for all levels, allowing you to explore Looe’s coastline and surrounding areas, including Kilminorth Woods.

Adrenalin Quarry: Thrills for All

Adrenalin Quarry, located in Cornwall, offers a variety of thrilling activities suitable for different age groups. Here’s an overview:

Aquapark: An expansive inflatable playground on a lake, featuring trampolines, monkey bars, slides, and swings. Suitable for ages 6 and above; an adult must accompany children under 11. 

Karting: An 800-meter all-weather track accommodating adult, youth, and junior karts. Open to individuals aged 7 and above. 

The Zip: A 490-meter-long zip wire, 50 meters high, reaching speeds up to 40 mph. Participants can experience this exhilarating ride over a flooded quarry. 

The Giant Swing: A clifftop swing that propels riders from 150 feet over a lake, offering a mix of sky-high views and freefall sensations.

Axe Throwing: An activity where participants can channel their inner lumberjack by hurling axes at targets. Suitable for individuals aged 12 and above.

Coasteering: An adventure involving climbing, jumping, and swimming around the quarry’s cliffs and lake, providing a unique way to explore the natural environment. 

These activities cater to various thrill levels and are designed to provide memorable experiences in a stunning natural setting.

Lower Clicker Rd, Menheniot, Liskeard PL14 3PJ

https://www.adrenalinquarry.co.uk

01579 308204

Information is gathered from Adrenalin Quarry website

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you’re an adventurer seeking coastal trails or a foodie eager to sample the freshest seafood, Looe offers something for everyone. The variety of “looe things to do” ensures that your itinerary will be both diverse and delightful. This charming Cornish town promises experiences that are as enriching as they are enjoyable.

If you’ve caught the Looe bug (and who could blame you?), there’s plenty more to discover! Browse around our website for comprehensive guides, insider tips, and hidden gems on all things related to “looe in England”. Your perfect holiday adventure awaits—happy exploring!