I love Polperro in Cornwall! I have been so many times over the years it feels like my second home. For such a small village you will experience excellent local food. The quality is outstanding. Whether you’re nearby or visiting, here are all of the places to eat in Polperro.
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Updated October 2023
Places to eat Polperro
The unspoilt fishing village of Polperro is beautiful. The houses and cottages cling to the hillsides surrounding the harbour. Polperro offers plenty of places to eat and relax. From decent pub grub to fine dining. There are plenty of dog friendly places to eat in Polperro and dog friendly restaurants in Polperro, too; I have highlighted these for you. Check out the best places to eat in Polperro.
Tip – It can be tricky to get a meal in a restaurant unless you book ahead, especially in peak season. The pubs only take walk-ins. There may also be a queue for takeaway.
Check out the TripAdvisor Polperro Restaurants reviews.
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Best Pubs in Polperro
Crumplehorn Inn and Mill
The first building in the Polperro is the Crumplehorn Inn. Perfect for a drink or food after hopping off the bus or parking up. The pub was originally an 18th-century mill house and is now Grade II listed. Food on the Crumplehorn Polperro menu is served all year; however, the serving hours are reduced during the winter months. Best to check before you go. Expect homemade burgers, macaroni cheese, chilli, fish pie and falafel fritters.
🐾 Dog-friendly. Outside, you’ll see a dog bar with three bowl sizes and a step for its smaller paws.
The Ship Inn
The first time I visited The Ship Inn, the local male voice choir were practising inside. It was brilliant! They host live music and themed parties throughout the year, so check out their social media before travelling. It’s also the pub to head to, to watch live sport. On the menu is pizza, pasta and pub favourites.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Noughts and Crosses Inn
The Noughts and Crosses Inn is one of the oldest buildings in Polperro, a few yards from the quayside and fish market. Service here is always first class. The food is all local, freshly prepared and homely. Expect exceptional seafood alongside classics like baked camembert, chicken parmigiana and roasts on Sunday. In the summer, there’s live music too. I also highly recommend the cocktails.
🐾 Dog-friendly
UPDATE – The restaurant is now closed. The last time I visited the village, it was up for sale.
Three Pilchards
Every single visit to Polperro, we eat in The Three Pilchards. Sitting proudly as number one on TripAdvisor as the best restaurant in Polperro. It is also the oldest pub in Polperro. The terrace garden is on several levels and is one of the best Polperro restaurants with a view. During our visit in 2021, it was table service only because of COVID regulations. I felt for the staff having to run food and drinks up and down the steep stairs in the warm weather.
Food is served daily between 12pm-9pm. It is only closed on Christmas Day. The homemade food is hearty. The trio of scallops on the starter menu is my favourite, with chorizo, curry and lemon flavours. Plus, homemade wholemeal thick-cut bread. My boyfriend loves the fish pie, packed full of smoked haddock, prawns, and locally sourced fish. Other mains included chilli, burgers, and pasta, plus plenty of vegan options. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re out of luck. There’s no dessert menu.
You’ll know you’re in Cornwall as the toilets are in the alleyway outside. If it’s raining, you need to dash for them and hope there’s no one inside.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Blue Peter Inn
With low ceilings, dark fixtures, and fittings, the Blue Peter is at the end of the village in the harbour. The little bar has a large selection of local and guest ales and ciders. When it comes to freshly prepared food, it is served daily between 12-2.45pm and 5.30-8pm (closed on Tuesdays) and 12-3 on Sundays. Expect local fish, burgers, homemade pies and plenty of vegan options. The sandwiches and light bites are hearty enough to get you through an afternoon of exploring.
The Blue, as it’s known locally, is usually the last pub we end up in. (Usually starting at the Crumplehorn and stopping off for one in each of the pubs). During the high season, especially at weekends, there’s usually live music and an energetic atmosphere.
Fun fact: It’s the last pub before France
🐾 Dog-friendly. There’s even Bonios behind the bar for them.
The Pallace
The bar is one of the newer editions to Polperro, found near the Quay. The Pallace doesn’t serve food, however, you can enjoy a drink or two and listen to live music.
🐾 Dog-friendly
The Royal British Legion
Again, The Legion doesn’t serve food. However, the bar is open to all, not just serving personnel and united veterans. It’s the cheapest drinks in the village! The bar has recently been refurbished and hosts regular live music nights. There’s also a pool table and darts.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Best restaurants in Polperro
Couch’s Great House
The first time I visited Polperro, about eight years ago, we booked Couch on Saxon Bridge. Trying out their multi-course menu. We were the only ones in the restaurant, and it was like having private dining. Now, you need to book in advance to avoid disappointment – it always seems full. The Head Chef / Owner can sometimes be a bit grumpy, but I’ve always had good service alongside the incredible food. Chef has worked under Gordon Ramsey, Marco Pierre White and Raymond Blanc. The 4-course set menu is £55 per person.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Harbour Green House Restaurant
Visit the Harbour Green House for breakfast, lunch or an evening meal. The varied British menu is packed with home-cooked, fresh food using Cornish produce. The day starts with breakfast, followed by sandwiches and cream teas during the day. In the evening, there’s rump steaks, lasagne and fajitas. The bread and butter pudding is pretty impressive, too.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Nelson’s
Also on Saxon Bridge is Nelson’s, one of the longest-established restaurants in the village. It is renowned for fine food and hospitality. I’ve never had a bad meal here. The menu changes regularly, sometimes daily, using freshly caught fish, including lobster, scallops, crab and Dover sole. There are plenty of meat, vegetarian and gluten-free options too. Dinner starts at 6.30pm, but the restaurant is closed on Mondays.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
UPDATE – Nelson’s didn’t reopen after COVID. However, I haven’t seen a for sale sign.
The Kitchen
If you are looking for superb home-cooked meals, head to The Kitchen. The restaurant is small, with only a handful of tables, so you can expect an intimate service. In fact, there’s only one serving per evening, so booking ahead is a must, especially during the summer. Highlights include lamb, duck and cod.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Michelle’s
The family-run restaurant specialises in fish caught on their very own boats. Michelle’s is open daily from 6.30pm (closed on Tuesday) and from 12pm on Sunday for a roast dinner with a selection of meats, Yorkshire pudding and goose fat roasties. I recommend the crab cakes with sweet chilli sauce and the lobster croquette.
🐾 Dog-friendly. Water bowls and treats are provided. Mini roast dinners are brought complimentary on Sunday.
Turntable Pizzeria
You can’t go wrong with pizza! Turntable Pizza and Beer is one of the new restaurants in Polperro. Enjoy a classic like Margherita, Pepperoni or American Hot, or a speciality pizza such as Brisket, Nduja or Napoli.
🐾 Unsure if it’s dog-friendly
Polperro Places to Eat – Cafes and Tea Shops
The Crumplehorn House Tea Rooms
The Crumplehorn have expanded and taken over the old Milly’s and More building across the road from the pub. On the menu is the obligatory cream tea, and they even do gluten-free. There are also sandwiches, cakes and coffee.
🐾 Dog-friendly
The Plantation
I haven’t been able to eat in The Plantation as yet. Our trips are usually in October and close from autumn to spring. Open only during the day (9.30am-5pm), they serve cream tea and even have a vegan selection of cakes and scones. There’s also a club sandwich, a ploughman’s platter and big salads. The pretty garden is the ideal place to eat them.
🐾 Dog-friendly. They are often given treats, too.
Bean and Scone
The tiny tea room is always busy, as it sells tasty coffee and seriously good scones. Vegan and gluten-free cakes are available alongside sandwiches and paninis at Bean and Scone. There are a few seats inside and outside, where you can watch the world go by. The staff are always friendly and happy to chat, even when busy.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Coffee Cake Create
Coffee Cake Create is incredibly comfortable, like sitting in someone’s front room with sofas and a warm fire in the winter. The coffee is well-priced, or have a delicious hot chocolate instead. The cakes are to die for – brownies, cookie pie, rocky road, banana bread and orange and polenta cake – to name just a few. If you want something more substantial, there are paninis on the menu as well. Don’t forget to check out the creative art classes, too.
🐾 Dog-friendly. Puppachino’s are on the menu.
UPDATE – Unfortunately, due to rising utility and maintenance costs, the couple has decided to close the coffee shop. However, they are still hosting creative classes. Look for dates and courses on their social media.
House on the Props
The restaurant and tea rooms overlook the harbour. Even inside, you know you are by the sea, as nautical and smuggling memorabilia adorns the walls. The Props is known for its mouth-watering cakes, all made on the premises. The superb English breakfast will set you up for the day, or you can pop in for lunch or an afternoon tea. I highly recommend the crab bisque.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Clements & Hope
In what used to be The Buccaneer is a new coffee shop in Polperro, Clements & Hope. There are triple-stacked pancakes on the menu, falafel flatbreads, porridge pots, soup, sandwiches and, of course, a cream tea. However, the coffee is what you want to try. The award-winning roast is ethically sourced. Do you want an espresso, americano, cappuccino, flat white or latte? There’s also a selection of teas, hot chocolate, beer, cider and wine.
🐾 Dog-friendly
The Museum Tearoom
This spot in the harbour is a great place to watch the boats leaving and returning. There’s a handful of tables inside, and the courtyard at the front is a great sun trap. It’s one of the best places to eat in Polperro with a view. Alongside the cream teas are doorstop sandwiches, pasties and crab baguettes. The Museum Tearoom is next to the Smuggling Museum, which is worth a visit and only £3.00 per adult.
🐾 Dog-friendly. The dog ice cream was a bit hit with my dog Ivan the Irresistible.
Polperro Bakery
The Polperro Bakery wakes up earlier than the other places to eat in Polperro. There is indoor seating, but you can also purchase a fresh loaf of bread or breakfast pastries to take back your accommodation. If you want a traditional Cornish pasty, head here. There are a variety of different fillings too. Plus, sandwiches and cakes.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Wheelhouse
Next to the Three Pilchards is the Wheelhouse. It is a cosy eatery with a few more tables inside than you would expect. Open during the day, it offers cooked breakfasts, sandwiches and burgers. And, of course, cream teas.
🐾 Dog-friendly
Polperro Seafood and Sandwich Bar
In a fishing village, you know the seafood will be exceptional. We don’t eat much fish at home, but every meal includes some of the local produce when in Polperro. The granary bread at Polperro Seafood and Sandwich Bar is also incredible. The sandwiches are made to order. Good luck choosing from the crab sandwich, prawns, tuna or even a side of cockles. There’s also meat, veggie options and cream teas. Takeaway is also available.
🐾 Dog-friendly. Water and biscuits are provided.
Polperro Takeaway
If you’re looking for cheap places to eat in Polperro, you’ll probably head to one of the takeaways.
Pedyr’s Bakehouse
There’s an artisan bakery in Polperro. Pedyr’s Bakehouse makes speciality bread and celebration cakes. Start the day with croissants, pains aux raisins, chocolate twists or a Danish pastry. Be quick to get the Cornish brie tear and share as they fly off the shelves – it’s so good! On Tuesdays, it’s Sourdough Day, and Wednesday is Quiche Day.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
The Chip Ahoy
The first time I visited, it was off-season, and the sign in the window said “Opening 7ish”. Which made me chuckle. Chip Ahoy serves your usual chip shop spread, including bags of chips, battered fish, scampi and sausages. And, of course, gravy, curry sauce, pickled eggs and gherkins.
🐾 Not dog-friendly
Kitty’s Lobster, Crab & Seafood Shack
Found on the Quay, the food stall offers freshly cooked seafood. Depending on the local catch, Kitty’s offers sandwiches and seafood platters, including freshly cooked lobster, juicy oysters and other fishy delights.
Burger in a Brioche
If you fancy a great burger using Cornish ingredients, Burger in a Brioche (part of Couch’s) offers takeaway and delivery to Polperro, Talland, Pelynt and Killigarth. There’s a spiced chicken burger, a vegetarian burger with sweet potato and chickpeas and the deluxe portobello and blue cheese steak burger.
Treleavens Luxury Cornish Ice Cream
A holiday or staycation isn’t the same without ice cream. Treleavens have outstanding flavours using artisan techniques. You just need to decide which flavour you want to try first: chocolate, butterscotch and pecan, mint choc chip, raspberry pavlova, salted caramel, strawberries and cream or vanilla?
Taste Buds
Freshly baked bread, Cornish pasties and other fantastic fillings, sausage rolls and a selection of cakes, Taste Buds have moved into one of the units that used to be a shop. They are found near the Quay.
Restaurants near Polperro
Food is a primary reason to go on a staycation. The sheer number of places to eat excellent food is exhilarating. I never know where I want to try first. There are plenty of restaurants near Looe and Polperro.
Map of the locations
Not sure where the locations are? They are all on this handy map. Zoom in or expand, and plan your route to visit the places to eat in Polperro.
Things to do when you visit
With narrow streets, pretty cottages that cling to the hillside, and a harbour, it is undeniably attractive. You can’t drive into the village, meaning you explore on foot. Alongside shops, there’s also a newsagent, bakeries and plenty of pubs, cafes and restaurants. Alongside this, there are so many things to do in Polperro.
Polperro to Looe
Looe is a small seaside town next to Polperro. It is split into two, East Looe and West Looe, with the river Looe running through the centre. The beauty spot has a rich history, fun attractions, activities, beaches and wonderful places to eat. There are plenty of things to do in Looe that will keep you entertained.
Polperro to Polruan
The drive between the two villages is only 20 minutes. Built on a very steep hill, Polruan is bounded on three sides by water: Pont Creek to the north, the River Fowey to the west and the English Channel to the south. The seaside village has secret coves, spectacular beach walks, and stunning views! Even though it’s small, there are plenty of things to do in Polruan.
Visiting Fowey
First things first, Fowey is pronounced Foy, rhyming with joy. I know; I got it wrong, too! Wander around hidden alcoves, set foot in ancient buildings, and soak up the atmosphere of this medieval fishing settlement. Highlights include the sandy, secluded beach of Readymoney Cove, which leads to St Catherine’s Castle. Discover all of the things to do in Fowey, just 30 minutes from Polperro.
Plymouth to Polperro
Plymouth is about a 45-minute drive from Polperro. It is also linked by buses. I love visiting Plymouth; it’s usually somewhere we stretch our legs or eat some local fish and chips on our way to Looe and Polperro in Cornwall.
- Free things to do in Plymouth
- Dog friendly restaurants in Plymouth
- Afternoon tea in Plymouth
- Mount Edgcumbe Country Park
- The ultimate guide to outdoor activities in Plymouth
- National Trust near Plymouth
Things to do in Gunnislake
About 35-minutes from Looe is Gunnislake. It is a picturesque location nestled in the countryside, making it easy to visit many of the local Cornish towns and villages. There are miles of attractions to explore, including Tavistock, Plymouth and Cotehele.
Unwind in Tavistock
It’s the ideal destination for those looking to unwind, destress and recharge. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore the great outdoors, there’s plenty to do, and foodies will love discovering the town’s hidden culinary gems. Finally, for history buffs, Tavistock is truly a dream destination. Here are all of the things to do in Tavistock.
English Heritage Membership
Even though I live in Cardiff, Wales, I love our English Heritage Membership. It gives us access to over 400 historic places. Plus, free parking. I’ve even taken advantage of some of the member’s rewards, such as discounted accommodation and money off meals. Our joint membership costs £9.53 a month. Family memberships start from £5.33 a month and allow up to 6 children in with an adult.
Close to Polperro, there’s St Catherine’s Castle in Fowey, Restormel Castle, King Doniert’s Stone, Trethevy Quoit, Hurlers Stone Circles, Dupath Well and the Royal Citadel in Plymouth.
English Heritage Offer
English Heritage Deals: Get 15% off gift and annual memberships by using the promo code EHAFF2024 at the checkout. It is valid until 31 December 2024. Making a single membership £58.65 per year and a couple’s membership £102. Get yours here.
Places to Stay in Polperro
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Cornwall Hideaways
Cornwall Hideaways have a massive selection of luxury holiday homes to make your next staycation perfect. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll be able to find properties with the things on your tick list, including dog-friendly, sea views, walking routes or even a log fire. There are barn conversions, cottages, lofts and manor houses – perfect for self catering holidays.
🐾 Dog friendly
Sykes Cottages
Sykes Cottages has over 17,500 holiday cottages to rent across the UK, including in Cornwall and the surrounding areas. There are pet-friendly cottages, large holiday homes and even houses with hot tubs. They’ve been operating for over 30 years, so you know you’re booking is in good hands.
🐾 Dog friendly
National Trust Holidays
You can stay in cottages, converted farmhouses and campsites in Cornwall with National Trust Holidays. With countryside views, you’ll have all the facilities and home comforts to hand, including patio areas or gardens and BBQs to enjoy in warmer weather.
National Trust Holiday Promo Code
Get 15% off selected cottages for bookings made and taken by 31 May 2024. Use discount code NTAF.
Parkdean Resorts
I have stayed at Looe Bay Holiday Park. The caravan park and lodges has a children’s play park, indoor swimming pool, tranquil gardens, pub and restaurant. It is a short drive to Polperro.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.
Last Minute Deals
You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price. When booking a hotel, utilising LastMinute enables you to secure fantastic deals on accommodations, ensuring a budget-friendly and spontaneous travel experience.
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