The historic village of Porthleven, Cornwall is the most southerly working harbour in mainland UK. The harbour exists today due to HMS Anson being wrecked on Loe Bar on December 29th 1807. Tobias Roberts, a hero that day, swam through stormy seas out to the Anson. A rope was tied around Tobias enabling him to create an escape route for those on board. Although he successfully reached the ship, over one hundred crew perished including the ship's Captain Lydiard.
Appalled by the loss of life, Tobias Roberts knew that a harbour of safe refuge was urgently needed. Being a man of determination he won the battle and Porthleven Harbour was constructed and then improved at a later date. Once a hive of commercial activity including imports and exports, boat building and fishing, trade declined leaving Porthleven harbour supporting a reduced number of commercial boats, pleasure craft and sports.
However, the harbour still plays a big role enticing tourists from all around the world. The media gave a lot of attention to Porthleven when it was lashed by a hurricane in December 1989. The coverage on the television was televised all over the world, with pictures showing the demolishing storm with its huge eaves throwing shingle and seaweed over 22 meters (72 feet). That's the height of the clock tower in Porthleven. TV and film crews have been to Porthleven over the years, with programme makers helping to promote Porthleven's natural unspoilt attractions.
In addition, brown tourist signs were introduced and publicised the village in a variety of ways including the Discover Porthleven leaflet which is now reproduced annually.
Of course the village received media attention well beyond affordable advertising when it was hit by a hurricane in December 1989.
Porthleven has a number of quality self catering cottages, B&B and hotels situated around the harbour, above the beach and within the village. Many accommodate commanding views of the bay, the harbour or surrounding countryside.
The village also has a small drop in caravan and camp site. Porthleven has three Inns, the oldest being the Ship Inn. In these you will discover good food, good ale and friendly locals. According to local legend and the BBC the Ship has a few resident ghosts.
There is a great variety of places to eat in Porthleven with restaurants such as the Blue Haze Restaurant, a recent asset to the village, quickly building a great reputation with both locals and visitors alike. Kota Restaurant and B&B is located on the harbour head and produces a well presented and varied menu. Both restaurants have chefs who have a great passion for cooking with locally sourced food. There are also two fish and chip shops and a Chinese takeaway.
About the Author:
Mike Carter has been a long term resident of Porthleven Cottages, and when he is not creating digital presentations or offering digital solutions he can often be found walking his dog Bertie around the Harbour in Porthleven Cornwall, the coastal path or Penrose.
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