The picturesque fishing village of Mousehole boasts stunning views over its harbour and is home to two Michelin-recommended eateries
Mousehole, a charming fishing village located roughly two and a half miles south of Penzance in Mount’s Bay, has been named one of the prettiest in Cornwall. Not just a treat for the eyes, it also boasts two Michelin-recommended eateries, 2 Fore Street and The Old Coastguard, reports MyLondon.
These culinary gems offer delectable dishes crafted from local produce, with 2 Fore Street earning accolades for both its casual vibe and sumptuous cuisine. Visitors can indulge in delicacies like ‘2 Fore Street’ Bouillabaisse, a fragrant saffron potato creation served with garlic crostini and rouille; or perhaps partake in the Hand-Picked Newlyn Crab accompanied by chilli and samphire linguine.
The restaurant’s mouth-watering burgers are another crowd-pleaser. Rave reviews on Tripadvisor highlight not only the delicious food but also the meticulous attention to detail.
One diner gushed about making an unforgettable choice from the menu, stating: “Spoilt for choice on the menu I settled on the Bouillabaisse with garlic croute, it was stunning, one of the best I’ve ever had.”
Another enthusiastically shared their dining experience: “The food is outstanding, we had the twice baked crab soufflé and the salt and pepper squid to start followed by seafood risotto and lamb cutlets with samphire. Each dish was cooked and seasoned perfectly using top quality produce.”
A third customer eagerly recalled: “We had read about this place and had a week booked in a cottage in Mousehole. I booked as soon as I could and only wished I’d booked more than once.”
At the esteemed Old Coastguard, patrons are spoilt for choice with seating options – be it the Upper Deck, Sun Deck, or terrace, everyone is treated to a spectacular and unique vista. They serve an array of European-inspired delights, such as the delectable Dressed Newlyn crab partnering with mango salsa, a vibrant Primavera risotto, and a sumptuous Fruits de Mer platter.
Not to forget, they boast a Sunday Lunch menu that’s sure to tantalise your taste buds, featuring dishes like their succulent roast rib of beef, tender roast pork, or a perfectly grilled plaice. One satisfied customer couldn’t help but sing their praises, noting: “Following a recommendation we chose to have our wedding meal here. Superb food and service, and they even gave us a complimentary glass of champagne each when the waitress heard we got married earlier in the day.”
Yet, the quaint village of Mousehole offers more than just gastronomic pleasures – the harbour remains the beating heart of this picturesque locale. Once a thriving port, its history was forever marked when the Spanish razed it during the fateful Anglo-Spanish war (1585-1604).
Led by Commander Carlos de Amesquita, an onslaught of 400 soldiers overran and terrorised the village. The assault left Mousehole scarred, nearly decimating it and leaving only the local inn untouched.
That establishment, the former Keigwin Arms, stands to this day, though it’s no longer serving ales. A profound reminder of its past, a plaque declares: “Squire Jenkyn Keigwin was killed here 23rd July 1595 defending this house against the Spaniards.”
Mousehole’s harbour also embraces one of the village’s charming beaches, a modest streak of sand perfect for a frolicsome family outing. In the shadows of the iconic Old Coastguard, children can explore the wonders within Mousehole’s rockpools that adorn the adjacent pebbled beach.
From Mousehole Harbour, you are able to set sail on a scenic boat tour along the Cornish coast, offering the chance to catch sight of dolphins, seals, or even the occasional shark. Mousehole isn’t just famous for its marine life; this quaint fishing village is renowned as the birthplace of the traditional Cornish dish, Stargazy pie.
This whimsical creation is tied to the legend of local hero Tom Bawcock, who is celebrated annually on December 23 for his daring efforts to fish during a treacherous winter storm, subsequently feeding the hungry villagers. .
In the festive season, Mousehole Harbour becomes a wonderland of Christmas lights, earning it the affectionate nickname ‘Mouse Vegas’ from some enchanted locals. The village also holds significance for its connection to Dolly Pentreath, thought to be the last fluent speaker of the Cornish language.
Having passed away roughly two centuries ago, her memorial stands in the nearby churchyard at Paul. For those looking to wander further afield, the South West Coast Path beckons explorers towards the picturesque Lamorna Cove.
Should hunger strike during your visit, Mousehole plays host to one of Tripadvisor’s top-rated pubs, The Ship Inn. Patrons can enjoy a range of pub favourites including hearty beef and gem ale pie or whichever market fish is freshest that day.
A patron enthused: “On our visit today I wondered why every single person eating had fish and chips so we decided to order the same….Well, this is the BEST fish and chips we’ve had that I could remember.”
Furthermore, The Ship Inn claims the title as the birthplace of the iconic Stargazy pie. Mousehole, a quaint fishing village nestled on the Cornish coast, is a treasure trove of local history and stunning views, not to mention its selection of top-notch dining spots.
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