Port Isaac Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and how to get to Port Isaac with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about local culture, must-try dishes, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Port Isaac

Port Isaac is a picturesque fishing village situated on the coastline of North Cornwall, England. Known for its narrow winding streets, white-washed cottages, and stunning views of the sea, Port Isaac has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a charming and authentic coastal experience. Originally a bustling fishing port, Port Isaac has grown into a vibrant community with excellent shops, restaurants, and attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Port Isaac

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Fish Cellars Museum: Housed in a former fish cellar, this museum showcases the history of fishing in Port Isaac and the surrounding area.
  • St. Endellion Church: This 15th-century church is a beautiful example of Cornish architecture and is known for its stunning stained glass windows.
  • The Old Schoolhouse Gallery: Featuring works by local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, this gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.

Natural Attractions of Port Isaac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Port Isaac Bay: A beautiful stretch of coastline with excellent opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
  • The South West Coast Path: This long-distance walking trail passes through Port Isaac and offers stunning views of the Cornish coastline.
  • Port Isaac Harbor: With its colorful fishing boats and lively atmosphere, Port Isaac harbor is a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the local culture.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Port Isaac

  • The Port Isaac to Port Quin Circular Walk: A scenic 4.5-mile walk that takes in the stunning views of the coastline and the picturesque village of Port Quin.
  • The Bodmin Moor Cycle Route: A challenging 32-mile ride that takes in the beautiful scenery of Bodmin Moor, including rugged granite outcrops and wild heaths.

Best Things to Do in Port Isaac: Activities and Tours

  • Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours: Take a boat trip out into the bay and spot whales, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat.
  • Sea Kayaking: Explore the coastline from a different perspective with a guided sea kayaking tour.
  • Food Tours: Sample the best of Cornish cuisine with a food tour around some of Port Isaac’s top restaurants and eateries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Port Isaac

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the village, visit the Fish Cellars Museum, and take a stroll along the coast path.
Day 2 Take a day trip to nearby Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur.
Day 3 Go sea kayaking along the coast or take a whale watching tour.
Day 4 Visit St. Endellion Church and the Old Schoolhouse Gallery.
Day 5 Take the Bodmin Moor Cycle Route or go horseback riding on the beach.
Day 6 Spend the day relaxing on Port Isaac Bay or take a cooking class at a local restaurant.
Day 7 Visit nearby Polzeath beach and surf school or take a fishing trip from Port Isaac Harbor.

Food and Drink Scene of Port Isaac

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish Pasties: These savory pastries are filled with meat and vegetables and are a staple of Cornish cuisine.
  • Cream Teas: A quintessential British treat, cream teas in Cornwall are served with scones, clotted cream, and jam.
  • Fish and Chips: Port Isaac is a fishing village, and the fish and chips here are some of the best in the UK.

Local Beverages

  • Cornish Cider: Made with locally sourced apples, Cornish cider is a refreshing and tasty drink.
  • Doom Bar Ale: This popular beer is brewed in Cornwall and is named after a nearby sandbank.

Where to Stay in Port Isaac: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Slipway Hotel: Located right on the harbor, The Slipway Hotel has stunning sea views and excellent on-site dining.
  • Port Gaverne Hotel: A cozy and charming hotel just a short walk from Port Isaac village.
  • The Old Schoolhouse Guesthouse: This historic guesthouse has been beautifully restored and offers comfortable accommodation with a boutique feel.

What to Buy in Port Isaac: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish Fudge: This delicious and creamy candy is a popular souvenir.
  • Cornish Sea Salt: Produced from the pure waters of the Cornish coast, Cornish sea salt is a premium product that makes a great gift.
  • Handmade Cornish Pottery: Browse the local shops and pick up a unique piece of handcrafted pottery to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Port Isaac

Cornish culture is deeply rooted in the region’s history and tradition, and Port Isaac is no exception. The village is known for its seafaring heritage, and many locals still make their living through fishing. The Cornish language, known as Kernewek, is still spoken by some locals, and there is a strong sense of community and pride in local traditions.

Best Time to Visit Port Isaac

The best time to visit Port Isaac is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the village can get crowded and prices can be higher during this time. Spring and autumn are also good times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Port Isaac

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine, including the fresh fish and seafood.
  • Explore the beautiful coastal scenery.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Take photos of locals without their permission.
  • Ignore the local etiquette when visiting churches or other cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Port Isaac

Port Isaac is a safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take common-sense precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding leaving belongings unattended on the beach.

Health in Port Isaac

The UK has a public healthcare system, the NHS, which provides free emergency medical treatment to all visitors. Visitors from outside the EU should have travel insurance to cover any medical costs.

Getting to Port Isaac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Port Isaac

  • Newquay Airport: Located about 20 miles from Port Isaac, Newquay Airport has regular flights from all over the UK and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Port Isaac

  • Bodmin Parkway: The closest railway station to Port Isaac, Bodmin Parkway is about 16 miles away. Buses connect the station with Port Isaac.

Other Options

  • Driving: Port Isaac is about 70 miles from Exeter and accessible by car via the A30 and A39.

How to Get Around in Port Isaac

The village is small enough to explore on foot, and the narrow streets and steep hills make walking the best way to get around. Taxis and buses are also available for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Port Isaac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tintagel Castle: Just a short drive from Port Isaac, Tintagel Castle is one of the UK’s most iconic historical landmarks.
  • Padstow: This charming fishing village is just a short drive up the coast and is known for its excellent seafood and beautiful beaches.
  • The Eden Project: Located about 50 miles from Port Isaac, this award-winning attraction is a must-visit for anyone interested in sustainable living and environmental issues.

Conclusion

Port Isaac is a charming and authentic destination that offers a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Port Isaac has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover why this village has become one of Cornwall’s most popular destinations.