Looe, Cornwall travel guide and Looe information

Visit Looe

Looe is a coastal town in south-east Cornwall, about eight miles south of Liskeard (strictly speaking, it consists of two towns: West Looe and East Looe, standing either side of the River Looe and joined by a 19th century stone arched bridge).

The 'towns' run up either side of the hills that form the valley for the river, while the harbour below acts as the centre of the town and still has an active fishing fleet - although you will have to be a very early riser if you plan to buy fresh fish in the morning, otherwise just get up late and book yourself into a local fish restaurant for lunch....

Both towns are a pleasure to explore, traditional Cornish towns with understated architecture - and a myriad of shops, galleries, cafes and pubs to meet all tastes. There is also a small museum in one of the oldest buildings in Looe, the 16th century Guildhall.

No Cornish coastal town would be complete without a beach, and Looe is no exception - the main beach here is in East Looe just beyond the Banjo Pier and very popular with families, while West Looe has Hannafore Beach.

The island just off the coast is called Saint George's island (or Looe island) can be visited by boat, and has a couple of small beaches and coves to discover - the island itself is in private ownership and the surrounding waters are a protected marine reserve. Another popular activity for visitors to Looe is to take one of the boat trips available in the harbour, either for admiring the scenery or for fishing.

You can find more local travel ideas in the Cornwall guide and the Cornwall guide.