Set on the coast of south Cornwall, Looe is a popular seaside town where waterside living is at its heart. Watch fishing boats come and go from the harbour, enjoy a kayak along the river, swim in the sea or dine on the quayside.

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A local’s guide to Looe holidays…

Looe has a laid-back atmosphere and fabulous coastal scenery and has recently risen to fame as the fictional town of Shipton Abbot – the location for the TV series Beyond Paradise, starring Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton.

Uniquely laid out, the Looe River divides the town into an east side and a west side, each with its own distinctive feel. Both are connected by a historic bridge which dates back to the Victorian era.

East Looe vs West Looe

With many lovely shops, pubs and restaurants, East Looe is the livelier side of the river. First Beach, Looe’s popular sandy crescent, is sheltered by a banjo-shaped pier and is perfect for paddling in the clear shallows, relaxing in the sunshine and building sandcastles.

The quieter side of the river has its own outlook across the harbour and out to sea. Experience a more laid-back atmosphere with waterside eateries and walks along the coast path. A small speedboat ferry links East and West Looe, making both sides easily accessible.

Looe Harbour

The town has a fascinating maritime history, including a booming pilchard industry which peaked in the mid-19th Century. Today, Looe remains a working fishing port, with those early risers able to spot resident dayboats chugging out to sea on their fishing trips. Daily catches include Cornish crab, lobster, scallops and mussels, all of which you can sample in one of Looe’s many fabulous restaurants.

Things to Do in Looe

From beach days to coast path walks, boat cruises to kayaking and more, Looe has plenty to keep you entertained during your stay. The town bursts with shops of all varieties including independent boutiques, gift shops and galleries to choose from. Some are seasonal so do check opening times in advance.

The Beach

East Looe Beach or the main beach is a fantastic place to enjoy the sunshine, recognisabl by its distinctive Banjo Pier. Here you can enjoy panoramic views across Looe Bay either from the sand or from a bench on the pier – the perfect spot for enjoying an ice cream or takeaway fish and chips.

Eating Out

Enjoy everything from traditional Cornish pasties to seafood. The Smugglers Cott is a ‘must’ not only for its fascinating 15th-century roots and original features, but also for its food. On West Looe’s waterfront, visit the Sardine Factory. This beautiful building established in 1905 is now home to a respected seafood restaurant and the Looe Harbour Heritage Centre.

Taking To The Water

For time on the water, Looe Sea Safari offers a variety of trips, including ones to Polperro, Eddystone Lighthouse and Looe Island – a protected marine reserve. Less exhilarating but equally fun is a glass-bottom boat tour. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for hire for those wanting to explore the coastline at their own pace. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of charter options operating from the harbour.

Dog-friendly beaches in Looe

While dogs aren’t allowed on East Looe’s main beach (locally called First Beach), there are plenty of nearby alternatives.

Beaches near the town

Second Beach (alongside the main town beach) welcomes dogs all year. Please bear in mind that at high tide, the sandy section is completely cut off, which is why it’s really important to check the tides beforehand.

The quieter Plaidy Beach is over in West Looe, Hannafore Beach, has easy parking and is a good dog-friendly option. There is a road alongside, so dogs will need to be watched.

Beaches in the area

Portnadler, a mile along the coast path from Hannafore, is harder to reach but rewarding, with a mix of sandy and rocky areas and plenty of space.

Nearby villages offer more options. Seaton and Downderry provide long stretches of dog-friendly beach. Talland Bay is smaller but very pleasant, with sand, rocks and cafés. Lansallos, beyond Polperro, is a quiet and attractive beach.

48 Hours In Looe

There’s something wonderfully easy about a weekend in Looe.

Settling on Cornwall’s south coast this traditional Cornish harbour town has a sheltered beach, natural beauty and lots of lovely places to eat out.

Whether you’re planning a romantic coastal escape, a family weekend by the sea or a dog-friendly getaway with plenty of fresh air and excellent food, here’s how to spend 48 hours in Looe.

LC Loves Local Looe Itinerary

FAQ’s about Looe

  • Is Looe good for a weekend break?

    Yes! Depending on the type of short break you’re after, Looe is a great option for a weekend away in Cornwall. If your 48 hours in Looe is all about taking it easy, Looe harbour, town and beach are perfect for strolls and laid-back dining. And if you’d rather do more, there are water-based activities and coastal routes to enjoy either on foot or by car.

  • Are dogs allowed on Looe beach?

    Unfortunately dogs aren’t permitted on Looe Town Beach at any time of year. Second Beach alongside the main beach, welcomes dogs all year round.

  • Is there a supermarket in Looe?

    You’ll find a well-stocked Co-op on Fore Street in East Looe, and a General Stores (Londis) in West Looe for staples. Nearby, Liskeard has a few big supermarkets like Aldi and Morrisons (about 10 minutes’ drive).

  • Does Looe have a car park?

    Mill Pool Car Park is Looe’s main car park in West Looe. It is huge but can fill up during the busier periods. It’s a short walk from here to Looe Bridge and over to East Looe.

  • Does Looe have a train station?

    Yes, Looe has its own train station operated by Great Western Railway (GWR). You can catch a train from London Paddington and change at Liskeard – the journey takes around 4 hours. The train station is about 10 minutes’ walk from town.

  • Is there a Looe festival?

    In early September East Looe holds the Kernowfornia Festival – an independent music festival on the beach featuring local and international music artists and bands.

    Also in September is the Looe Food & Drink Festival on Looe’s east Quayside which hosts acclaimed local chefs and showcases the region’s local produce.

    The Made in Looe Regatta takes place at the end of July, and the Looe Festival of Words literary festival takes place in early October every year.

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