Porthleven Harbour


Porthleven's sturdy, double-walled harbour is crowned by two cannons recovered from the wreck of HMS Anson, which foundered on Loe Bar in 1807. This traumatic event inspired local cabinet-maker Henry Trengrouse to devote his life to inventing better life-saving tools, including the winch-powered 'Bosun's Chair' and a rocket-propelled rescue line.

More recently, the town's harbour hit the headlines in 2011, when massive storms ripped away the harbour gates, swamped the quay and very nearly washed away the town's church.

It's well worth Googling pictures of huge waves breaking against the spire.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. The Loe

1.41 MILES

A mile south of Helston is Loe Pool, Cornwall’s largest freshwater lake, said by some to be the resting place of King Arthur’s magical blade, Excalibur…

2. Helston Folk Museum

2.21 MILES

There's plenty of background on the Furry Dance at the town's quirky museum, where the displays include replica shopfronts, a 5-tonne cider press and a…

3. Rinsey Beach

2.29 MILES

This rocky cove is a little off the beaten track, which means it's often fairly quiet, even in the heat of summer. Various mine-workings line the cliffs,…

4. Flambards

2.75 MILES

Just outside town is Flambards, Cornwall's oldest theme park. Attractions include the wartime-themed Britain in the Blitz, an aviation gallery and a…

5. Dollar Cove

3.82 MILES

This small cove, known in Cornish as Jangye-ryn (the name used on Ordnance Survey maps), is associated with some intriguing local legends. In 1785 the…

6. Church Cove

3.9 MILES

This golden sandy cove would be worth a visit in its own right, but doubly so thanks to its peculiar landmark – the tiny 15th-century Church of St…

7. Godolphin

4.12 MILES

This wonderful medieval house and garden was the family seat of the Godolphin family who, during the 17th and 18th centuries, were one of Cornwall's great…

8. Poldhu Cove

4.28 MILES

A west-facing beach bordered by gently sloping fields, this is a family-friendly stretch of sand that's easily reached from Mullion, which means you won't…