A Day Trip To Porthleven

Coffee Shops in Porthleven

If you arrive ready for refreshment, the cafes and coffee shops here are amazing, with plenty of independent options to choose from. Naughty but Ice began as a waterside ice-cream parlour but now serves full breakfasts, lunches and plenty of coffee and cake! Bolla is the newly-opened ‘little pink place’ serving amazing Yallah coffees, pastries and breakfast bowls in a beautiful space just back from the harbour. 

For the dedicated coffee connoisseurs, a visit to the Origin Roastery is a must – just a short drive or walk from the main centre of town is the home of this popular Cornish coffee brand. Home to their two Loring Smart roasters, this is the renowned centre for barista training where many a local hospitality employee will have gone to hone their craft! With a seasonal brunch menu and an impressive indoor eating space where you can watch the roasters in action, we’re sure you’ll be impressed. 

Other lovely cafes to visit include Twisted Currant, Harbour View Cafe and The Corner Deli. 

Scenic Walks

For those wanting to stretch their legs a little further and get out onto the coast path, you have two excellent choices starting from the heart of the town. 

Head West out of the harbour towards Praa Sands, following the steep South West Coast Path across the cliffs. You’ll pass Nichols Cove, Wheal Prosper and Wheal Trewavas engine houses, with the option of clambering down to Rinsey Cove (exposed only by the low tide with tricky access down the rock face). Otherwise, stay high at Rinsey Head, taking in the wildlife and dramatic landscapes from above.

Alternatively, follow the path from the harbour that goes past the iconic church (captured in many a storm-photo) and walk South towards Loe Bar. Walking above the beach through pretty little streets, you’ll find your way onto the Coast Path as it climbs up across the cliffs and then winds back down to the sandy beach at Loe Bar. From here you have the option of creating a large loop around the picturesque Penrose Estate (National Trust), or continuing South towards Gunwalloe and Poldhu.

Pubs & Restaurants in Porthleven

If you’re staying for dinner, there are a wonderful range of eateries to choose from in Porthleven – from classic pubs to fine dining and seafood restaurants. It has become a bit of a foodie hotspot in recent years, with an annual Food Festival in the Spring. 

Featured in the Michelin Guide ‘Kota’ means ‘shellfish’ in Māori, and is a nod to the heritage of chef and owner Jude Kereama, who is half Māori, half Chinese Malay. They describe their fare as ‘Asian flair, paired with fine wines, cocktails and more.’

For a laid-back, rustic eatery, visit The Mussel Shoal at the top of the harbour: serving chowder, squid and moules-frites. The playlist and the atmosphere have earned this eatery its reputation, and it’s often busy, so arrive early to get a seat!

The Ship Inn is a 17th-century traditional and cosy inn that oozes years of history and Cornish charm. Visit for traditional pub food and views across the harbour (indoor and outdoor seating available). 

‘Dan Dan The Lobster Man’ supplies his own sustainably caught catch at his casual, outdoor venue – try some lobster in various portions and sizes, enjoy a wonderfully dressed crab sandwich, or get a seafood mini-meze and sharing platter for the table.

New restaurant Cantina has a striking Spanish-themed interior and promises street-food dishes inspired from around the world. Their sunny roof terrace is perfect for cocktails overlooking the harbour too, if you visit when the weather is right!