Discover Killigarth

Killigarth is connected to places such as Looe, Talland Bay and Polperro by several named coastal walks. The routes differ in their destinations and scenery. There are also historical connections in Killigarth and Talland, as well as a museum in Polperro. These themes offer specific points to consider when deciding what you want to focus on during a stay in Killigarth.

Coastal paths with different destinations

The “Killigarth to Looe” walk follows the South West Coast Path to Looe. Another route, “Killigarth to Talland Bay & Polperro”, initially follows Bridals Lane to Talland Bay, then continues along the coast to Polperro. This walk includes a long, steep climb. When weighing up the routes, they differ not only in their destinations: Looe is the stated destination for one, while the other passes through Talland Bay on the way to Polperro and includes the climb described.

The “Killigarth to Talland Bay & Hendersick” walk is described as offering coastal views of Looe Island and, further afield, Rame Head. Another walk is called “Killigarth - Polperro and East Coombe” and passes through wildflower meadows that attract many butterflies in summer. Different sights are therefore the focus: one route offers coastal views, while the other features summer wildflowers and butterflies. The season is a specific difference to take into account when planning.

Talland Bay and the coastal area

Talland Bay consists of two coves, separated at high tide by a rocky headland. This gives the stretch of coast its own distinct landscape, whether you are interested in the route towards Polperro or the walk to Hendersick. The bay is also part of a larger coastal landscape: the South Coast - Eastern National Landscape continues beyond Polperro for a short distance towards Looe.

The stretch between Polperro and Polruan has two protected-area designations: it is designated both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). These designations apply to the Polperro–Polruan stretch of coast. They are distinct from the descriptions of the individual walks, each of which names its own destinations and landscape features.

Historical connections in Killigarth and the surrounding area

The area’s history also offers various points of interest. Killigarth Manor incorporates reused dressed stone from an earlier manor house. Talland Church was built in the 13th century. Bridals Lane also leads to the church: according to local tradition, it is said to have been the path brides used on their way to church. The reference to brides is a local tradition; the church and manor house have their own separate historical associations.

In Polperro, the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing is now housed in one of the village’s former fish-processing factories. Together with the route from Killigarth via Talland Bay to Polperro, the museum adds to the area’s geographical and historical points of interest. To decide whether Killigarth fits your travel plans, you can weigh up a range of interests: coastal walks with different destinations, seasonal wildlife and nature, views and historical themes.

Discover more destinations: Perranporth, Torpoint, Gwinear, Rock, Lelant, Wadebridge, Luxulyan, Saint Mawes

For the main travel guide: Cornwall.