This small fishing village has a whole host of things to do, from a sunset tradition to some of the best wild swimming spots in the UK
Cornwall, a favourite among UK holidaymakers, is home to many hidden gems, one of which is the charming village of Portscatho.
Located on the eastern side of the peninsula, about seven miles southeast of Truro, this quaint seaside village attracts fewer tourists than other parts of Cornwall. With its picturesque cottages lining the seafront and crystal-clear waters, there’s an inviting charm to this often-overlooked corner of Cornwall.
The village’s east-facing cove provides excellent shelter from the wind, making it a popular base for fishermen in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the fishing village operates as a smaller-scale port, supplying fresh fish to locals.
This same sheltered spot, known as Gerrans Bay, offers a safe swimming area, and its close proximity to several sandy beaches makes it an ideal destination for families. After a refreshing swim in the clear waters, visitors can explore the heart of the village.
The village centre boasts a variety of shops, including a grocery store and butcher’s shop, as well as several galleries and gift shops. And let’s not forget the local pub, The Plume of Feathers, a favourite among locals that serves up some of Cornwall’s finest ales and delicious food, reports the Express.
A visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “What a great pub. The staff were really friendly and helpful even though it was ever so busy being the end of May half term. The menu was not extensive, but boy was it tasty and good. It tasted more like home-cooked than busy-pub-cooked, and there were some interesting twists on traditional dishes.
“The ale was well kept, and the wine served at the correct temperature. A wonderful dining experience in a lovely village setting, and we will definitely go back.”
Holiday-makers adore soaking up the sea, sand and sunshine as much as possible during their time in Portscatho, which has become part of a charming tradition.
Come sunset, you’ll find families – both residents and visitors – gathering to watch the heavens turn amber as they leap from the jetty into the waters below.
One tourist from Global Travellers highlighted several of their top picks when it came to the cuisine this fishing village provides.
They noted their most memorable moment was a clifftop stroll, concluded with dinner at The Hidden Hut, plus a chocolate brownie from Tatam’s in the village centre.
For those seeking more energetic pursuits, there are numerous breathtaking rambles available in and around Portscatho.
One option features the circular route along a two-mile section of coastline, guiding you around the complete perimeter of Gerrans Bay so you can admire it in all its splendour whilst on an easy-to-moderate path.
Alternative visitors choose a circular trek along the Roseland shoreline.