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Insider Guide: 24 Hours in Mousehole

Quaint cottages huddled around a harbour full of history and folklore. The charming village of Mousehole, pronounced ‘Mow-zel’, is a must-visit during a trip to Cornwall. Discover everything this west Cornish fishing harbour has to offer with our insider guide to spending 24 hours in Mousehole.

8am – 10am: A Cornish brekky to set you up

Wake up by the water’s edge and float from your bed to the breakfast table. We’ll be ready with tea, coffee, and plenty of delicious options to fuel you up for the day ahead. Allow an hour to drive from The Greenbank to Mousehole to start your day trip.

10am – 11am: Browse the boutiques

One of our favourite things to do in Mousehole. Spend a morning getting lost down the maze of alleyways scattered with independent boutiques, art galleries, and bakeries. Pick out a souvenir or just while away an hour window shopping.

11am – 12pm: Discover the history of Mousehole

Alongside natural beauty and a tight knit community, Mousehole holds a lot of significant Cornish history. Admire the harbour which dates back as far as 1267, playing a vital role in the local fishing industry. Then, visit the plaque to Squire Jenkyn Keigwin located outside of Keigwin House – that marks the 23rd July 1595 when the Spanish Armada attacked Mousehole, burning most of the village to the ground

Finally, head out towards Tregiffian Cliff to visit the 40th anniversary Penlee Lifeboat memorial – a very special place for the residents of Mousehole. On the 19th December 1981, the Solomon Browne Lifeboat was called out to a cargo ship in trouble during hurricane-force winds. Tragically, the eight crew members lost their lives at sea. Each year on the 19th December, the harbour Christmas lights are turned off as a mark of respect to those heroes.

12pm – 2pm: Take a dip in the tidal pool

If you want to live like a local, you’ve got to embrace a sea swim. Head to Mousehole rock pool, a man-made tidal pool with the most breath-taking views out to the Atlantic, for an invigorating cold water dip. Once you’ve dried off from your swim, head to the neighbouring Rock Pool Cafe for lunch and a hot drink to warm you up. 

📸: Explore Cornwall

2pm – 4:30pm: Walk the south west coastal path

For a leisurely stroll, head to Penzance promenade, taking in views of St Michael’s Mount and Newlyn Pier. It’s a one hour walk each way, so allow extra time to enjoy the vibrant town of Penzance before making your return.

For a more challenging hike, tread the south west coast path towards Lamorna Cove. Taking in steep, narrow cliffs and uneven terrain, this Cornish walk is definitely on the more challenging side, but the views are totally worth it. The one hour walk ends in the tranquil setting of Lamorna Cove.

4:30pm – 6pm: Grab a pint in the local

After all that walking, you’ll be very deserving of a cold beverage. Head to The Ship Inn for a pint of local ale, or a warming hot chocolate. Set in the very heart of the village, it’s the perfect, cosy pub setting.

📸: Ship Inn

6pm – 7pm: Visit the famous Christmas lights

If you’re visiting during the festive period, when darkness falls on Mousehole’s harbour, a magical display of Christmas lights comes to life. Visitors and residents of the county will travel far and wide to see the spectacle, and it is a beloved, yuletide tradition for lots of families.

7pm: Head back to The Greenbank in time for dinner

Head back to Falmouth where we’ll be waiting at the Water’s Edge or the Working Boat with dinner and drinks. Relax and reflect on your day out, before retiring to one of our comfortable rooms by the water.

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