Attractions and Places To See around St. Martin-By-Looe - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around St. Martin-By-Looe include a variety of sites highlighting its natural beauty and cultural heritage. This civil parish in South Cornwall, England, is bordered by the English Channel to the south, offering coastal scenery. The area is situated near the coastal town of Looe and the River Looe flows through the region. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, natural features, and charming villages.
Best attractions and places to see around St. Martin-By-Looe
- The most popular attractions is Polperro Harbour, a settlement that features a traditional harbour and fishermen's cottages. This picturesque village is known for its historical smuggling past and unique streets.
- Another must-see spot is Talland Bay, a coastal viewpoint and peaceful village. It offers sea views and features beaches with rockpools to explore at low tide.
- Visitors also love Looe Clock Tower, a man-made monument in the nearby town of Looe. This prominent feature connects East and West Looe, which are divided by the River Looe.
- St. Martin-By-Looe is known for its coastal viewpoints, historical sites, and charming settlements. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from traditional fishing villages to scenic bays.
- The attractions around St. Martin-By-Looe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 200 upvotes and over 140 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Polperro Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
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Talland Bay
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Looe Clock Tower
Highlight • Monument
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Seaton Beach
Highlight • Beach
There is a large shingle beach, two pubs and a beach cafe to visit and if you don't like sand, there is a green just behind the beach.
At low tide, you can walk all the way along the beach to Downderry but please check tide times carefully before setting out as the tide rises very rapidly and there is a risk of being stranded.
The entrance to Seaton Valley Country Park is opposite the beach, a former derelict caravan park which is now an attractive area of woodland, grassland and wetlands.
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Tregantle Firing Range
Highlight • Structure
The firing times for Tregantle ranges are subject to change, so it is recommended to check for up-to-date information. The red flags during the day and red lamps at night indicate that the range is active and live firing is taking place. It is crucial not to enter the danger area when the range is in use, as this poses a danger to life. If you see red flags or lights hoisted, regardless of the timings, do not enter the training area.
To ensure your safety, it is advised not to touch any military debris as it may be dangerous. For more information: gov.uk/government/publications/tregantle-firing-notice/tregantle-firing-times-18-september-to-1-october-2023
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Tips from the Community
Hike from Looe or Polperro along the coastal path, and pop into the Talland Bay Hotel for lunch!
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Small smuggling town with a nice museum and cottages.
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Small, beautiful fishing town with a smuggling past. The cottages and the mill at the entrance to the town are very nice. We were there at low tide and the boats were lying in the mud.
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The Tregantle ranges are used for military training and live firing exercises. It is important to be aware of the firing times and safety precautions when visiting the area. The firing times for Tregantle ranges are subject to change, so it is recommended to check for up-to-date information. The red flags during the day and red lamps at night indicate that the range is active and live firing is taking place. It is crucial not to enter the danger area when the range is in use, as this poses a danger to life. If you see red flags or lights hoisted, regardless of the timings, do not enter the training area. To ensure your safety, it is advised not to touch any military debris as it may be dangerous. For more information: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tregantle-firing-notice/tregantle-firing-times-18-september-to-1-october-2023
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At low tide you can walk the SWCP on the beach.
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Great hiking trail and very nice town
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Polperro is a beautiful old fishing village where houses clinging to the valley sides that plunge into the protected harbour. There are plentiful places to eat and drink from pubs, fish and chips and cafes. There are public toilets (50p) on the road heading north out of Polperro (The Combe).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around St. Martin-By-Looe?
The region offers stunning natural beauty, including the dramatic Cornish Coastline and the English Channel to the south. You can visit coastal hamlets like Millendreath, or enjoy the beautiful Talland Bay, known for its sea views and rockpools. Seaton Beach provides a shingle beach experience with walks to Downderry at low tide, and opposite it lies Seaton Valley Country Park with woodlands and wetlands. The River Looe also flows through the area, and Kilminorth Woods Local Nature Reserve offers well-marked walking paths.
Are there any historical landmarks in St. Martin-By-Looe?
Yes, St. Martin-By-Looe has several historical points of interest. The parish church of St Martin features a Norman doorway from around 1140 and 15th-century architecture. You can also find St Martin's Well, an ancient water source. In nearby Looe, the Looe Clock Tower is a prominent landmark connecting East and West Looe. Additionally, a notable Stone Cross from Tregoad Farm, featuring a carved figure of Christ, is preserved in the Guildhall Museum in East Looe.
What are some family-friendly attractions near St. Martin-By-Looe?
Families will find plenty to enjoy. The picturesque Polperro Harbour is great for exploring its unique streets and traditional fishing village atmosphere. Talland Bay offers beaches with rockpools, perfect for children at low tide. Seaton Beach is another good option with a green area behind it. For animal lovers, the Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary near Looe provides an opportunity to see various primates. The Polperro Model Village also offers a miniature representation of the charming village.
Where can I go for coastal walks or hiking near St. Martin-By-Looe?
The area is ideal for coastal walks. The renowned South West Coast Path passes nearby, offering breathtaking views. You can enjoy walks exploring the heritage coast sites around Looe, including Lamanna Chapel and the Monk's House. A popular route is the walk between Looe and Polperro, which often highlights beautiful spots like Talland Bay. For more options, explore the running trails around St. Martin-By-Looe, which include routes like the Plaidy Beach loop.
What is there to do in the nearby town of Looe?
Looe is a bustling fishing town divided by the River Looe into East and West Looe. East Looe features the harbour, main shopping centre, and a popular sandy beach with safe swimming. West Looe is quieter but also offers attractions. The two sides are connected by a seven-arched bridge, near the prominent Looe Clock Tower. You'll find various shops, eateries, and a vibrant harbour atmosphere.
Are there any adventurous activities available in the area?
For those seeking adventure, Adrenalin Quarry near Liskeard offers a range of thrilling experiences. While not directly in St. Martin-By-Looe, it's a short drive away for activities like zip-lining and giant swings.
What are some good viewpoints around St. Martin-By-Looe?
The region is rich in scenic viewpoints. Talland Bay offers fantastic sea views, often highlighted on hiking trails. The coastal paths, particularly sections of the South West Coast Path, provide dramatic vistas of the Cornish coastline and the English Channel. The charming fishing village of Polperro Harbour also offers picturesque views of its traditional harbour and cottages nestled in a ravine.
Can I find cycling routes near St. Martin-By-Looe?
Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. You can find various routes for touring bicycles, including a challenging loop from Looe to The Fowey Estuary and a moderate Looe River loop via Duloe Stone Circle. For more options, check out the cycling guide for St. Martin-By-Looe.
What is the Polperro Heritage Coast?
The Polperro Heritage Coast is an attractive stretch of coastline that includes the charming fishing village of Polperro. This area is known for its natural beauty, dramatic cliffs, and historical significance, offering stunning views and opportunities for coastal walks.
Are there mountain biking trails in the vicinity?
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails in the wider area. Options include a moderate loop from Downderry with views of the Rame Peninsula and Whitsand Bay, or more challenging routes like the Lerryn Stepping Stones to Golitha Falls loop from Liskeard. Discover more trails in the MTB Trails guide for St. Martin-By-Looe.
What is Kilminorth Woods Local Nature Reserve?
Kilminorth Woods Local Nature Reserve is a beautiful natural area offering well-marked walking paths. It's a great spot for nature lovers to explore woodlands and enjoy peaceful strolls, including sites like the Giant's Hedge.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around St. Martin-By-Looe?
Visitors particularly appreciate the picturesque charm of places like Polperro Harbour, with its traditional cottages and smuggling past. The stunning coastal views and delicious local treats at spots like Talland Bay are also highly rated. Many enjoy the extensive possibilities for shopping and dining in Looe, and the tranquil walks along the coast and through nature reserves.
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