Pictures of Port Isaac

About Port Isaac

The Port Isaac of the 21st century is perhaps best known as the coastal village associated with the Television series "Doc Martin". In the 20th century it was featured in "Poldark" and "Nightmare Man" and it has been further seen in the Film "Saving Grace". Not bad for a busy little port known from the Middle Ages to the 19th century only as a place from which stone, coal, timber and pottery were loaded and unloaded at its quayside.

Port Isaac offers visitors many rich experiences from strolls around its ancient streets and narrow alleys criss-crossing the hillside, to simply standing on the top of a cliff watching the foaming waves of the changing tide. As you walk around the village you will be quick to note the number of picturesque old fishermen's cottages from the 18th and 19th centuries, some of these are now listed as being of architectural merit and are still lived in, or used as holiday cottages.

Colourful, flower filled walkways lead to the harbour, a pleasant place to wander where you will often see a local fisherman landing his catch of fish or lobster. Also, at the harbour you can book a sea fishing trip or a scenic cruise to see the magical Cornish coastline at distance from the sea. Lober Point is a local beauty spot with fine coast and sea views, from here a cliff top path leads to Pine Haven, a secluded rock and shingle cove.

The resort offers a range of activities, these include horse riding from a nearby stable, cycling (bikes can be hired in the village), and Polzeath, some four miles away offers one of the best surfing beaches on this stretch of coast.

Visitors to Port Isaac will find no shortage of shops, pubs or holiday accommodation for those wishing to stay on to enjoy the lovely hilly scenery and bracing sea air. Although now established as a holiday village, and despite much media attention owing to film and TV, Port Isaac has managed to retain its quaint Cornish character and charm.

In the summer the resort offers a number of events, and best of all this is one of the few places where you really can follow the band uphill, dancing to the strains of the famous Cornish Floral Dance!