Looe Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Looe with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, top things to do, and where to stay and eat in this picturesque town.


Introduction to Looe

Looe, located in Cornwall, in the picturesque West Country of England, is a serene coastal town that charms tourists with its authentic coastal setting and unspoiled natural beauty. Its miles of sandy beach, turquoise sea waters and sandy clifftop walks are guaranteed to leave visitors spellbound. The vibrant town, just a stone’s throw from the Cornish coast, is home to a range of art galleries, museums, and shops that provide a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Looe

If you’re planning to visit Looe, then here’s a list of places that you must visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol
  • St. Michael’s Church
  • Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre
  • Hannafore Point

Natural Attractions of Looe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hannafore Beach
  • Looe Island
  • Coastal paths
  • Fowey Estuary & Gribbin Head

Hiking/Biking Routes of Looe

Looe’s stunning natural surroundings make it a hiker’s paradise. With several adventurous trails and tracks, Looe offers a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular hikes and bike routes in Looe:

  • Looe to Polperro Coastal Walk
  • Bodmin Moor Way
  • Camel Trail
  • The Tamar Way

Best Things to Do in Looe: Activities and Tours

Looe offers a variety of outdoor and indoor activities that cater to everyone’s interests. Here are some of the top things to do while in Looe:

  • Fishing Trips
  • Crabbing
  • Sailing
  • Kayaking and Canoeing

Week-Long Itinerary for Looe

If you have a week to spare, Looe offers plenty of options to keep you entertained throughout your stay. Here’s an ideal itinerary for a week-long stay in Looe:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the beaches and enjoy a swim in the sea
Day 2 Visit the museums and historical places
Day 3 Go on an adventurous hike or bike ride
Day 4 Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Fowey and Polperro
Day 5 Visit the local markets and shops for souvenirs
Day 6 Enjoy water sports such as sailing, kayaking or canoeing
Day 7 Try out the local cuisine and unwind at the pubs or bars

Food and Drink Scene of Looe

Looe offers a wide variety of options to cater to your culinary cravings. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages while in Looe:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish & Chips
  • Cornish pasties
  • Cream Tea
  • Cornish Splits

Local Beverages

  • Cornish Ale
  • Cornish Cider
  • Cornish Mead

Where to Stay in Looe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Looe offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Looe:

  • The Old Bridge House
  • Penvith Barns
  • Polraen Country House Hotel
  • The Fieldhead Hotel

What to Buy in Looe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looe has a vibrant local market that offers a range of souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family back home. Some of the best things to buy in Looe are:

  • Cornish cheese and dairy products
  • Handmade pottery
  • Cornish fudge and confectioneries
  • Cornish Whisky

Local Culture and Customs of Looe

Looe’s local culture and customs are influenced by its maritime history and heritage. The locals are warm and welcoming, and very proud of their town’s traditions. Visitors to Looe are expected to respect local customs, including:

  • Dress appropriately while visiting churches
  • Use appropriate language and behavior in public places
  • Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially in private places

Best Time to Visit Looe

The best time to visit Looe is between May and September when the weather is warm, and the town is buzzing with tourists. However, Looe’s charm is not limited to the tourist season, and you can enjoy its beauty throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Looe

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Explore the local markets for souvenirs and local products
  • Take a boat trip to Looe Island to spot seals and seabirds

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in public places
  • Enter a private property without permission
  • Park in restricted areas or without a valid permit

Safety and Health

Safety in Looe

Looe is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors must exercise caution while exploring remote or unfamiliar areas. Be mindful of natural hazards, including sea tides, rocks, and cliffs, especially when hiking or swimming.

Health in Looe

Looe has a range of medical facilities, including a hospital, pharmacies, and clinics that offer medical care for visitors. Ensure you have travel health insurance before arriving in case of emergencies.

Getting to Looe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Looe

  • Newquay Airport
  • Exeter Airport

Bus Stations Near Looe

  • Looe bus station
  • Liskeard bus station

Other Options

  • Train services to Looe station operated by Great Western Railway (GWR)
  • Taxis and car rentals available

How to Get Around in Looe

Looe is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. However, if you prefer not to walk, you can hire a bike or take a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Looe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fowey: an ancient harbour town that offers a range of outdoor activities and cultural attractions
  • Polperro: a charming fishing village that is home to quaint shops and galleries
  • The Eden Project: a botanical garden and eco-project based near St Austell

Conclusion

Looe’s dramatic coastline, rich history, and unspoiled natural beauty make it an ideal destination for tourists who want to escape the bustling city life. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Looe offers a range of attractions and activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

River Looe River Looe