24 hours in Mousehole
11th August 2025
Indulge in slow living by the sea in one of Cornwall’s most adorable harbour villages
Perched in the heart of Penwith you’ll find a sheltered harbour, narrow lanes and honey-hued cottages which make up Mousehole – one of Cornwall’s most enchanting coastal villages.
Mousehole is known as a festive destination, particularly due to its famous Christmas lights which glow by the harbour each winter. However, this tiny fishing town has its own charm all year round. Discover crystal clear water and days paddling in the harbour in the height of summer. Or visit during the golden light of autumn where cooler temperatures invite you to walk the coast path for miles.
Stay in one of our five Mousehole retreats – Stella Maris, Pilchard Cottage, Chy Lowen, Little Duck or The Mouse House. Hear the faint cry of harbourside gulls by the water and wake slowly to the first rays of sunshine through yoru window. Step out of your door, following the mouth-watering scent of freshly baked pastries and coffee to your morning breakfast spot. Then spend the day exploring everything this laid-back stretch of the Cornish coast has to offer.
Here’s a glimpse into what your perfect 24 hours in Mousehole could look like.
Morning: Coffee and sea dips
Start the day like a local with a coffee from Mousehole Deli & Kitchen or The Rock Pool Café, both offering sea views and freshly baked pastries. Enjoy your drink perched on the harbour wall as the village slowly comes to life.
Wander down to the small sandy beach inside the harbour for a morning swim in calm, sheltered waters. At low tide, the beach is perfect for paddling, and in summer it becomes a sun-warmed haven. Or just around the corner you’ll find Mousehole’s very own tidal pool, perfect for a low-tide dip.
Mid-morning: Explore the village
Lose yourself in Mousehole’s maze of narrow streets, where whitewashed cottages and bursts of fuchsia bougainvillea create postcard-perfect scenes. Browse independent galleries like The Tyler Gallery or the Mowzer Gallery for unique artwork and gifts.
Lunch: Fresh flavours by the sea
Head to The Old Coastguard, just a short stroll from the harbour, for seasonal dishes made with local produce and sweeping views across Mount’s Bay. On warm days, the terrace is the perfect spot for a long lazy lunch.
Afternoon: Coastal walks
After lunch, join the South West Coast Path towards Lamorna Cove for dramatic clifftop views and glimpses of turquoise coves below. In the summer months the hedgerows are alive with colour and the golden light makes the sea shimmer.
Evening: Harbour views
Make your way back to Mousehole for a dinner and wine at 2 Fore Street, where you can watch the last light bounce off the harbour’s fishing boats. Enjoy a starter of Newlyn crab soup and mains of freshly caught fish stew or catch of the day.
Stay in Mousehole
Opt for one of our characterful retreats right in the heart of the village. Browse remaining summer availability or book an autumn stay.
Stella Maris
Sleeps 4
Stella Maris is a Grade II listed former fisherman’s cottage close to the harbour. 
Pilchard Cottage
Sleeps 5
Full of character and charm, Pilchard Cottage welcomes families with its cosy fireplace and sun-trap garden.
Chy Lowen
Sleeps 6
Discover contemporary elegance with open-plan living and a terrace perfect for sunset drinks at Chy Lowen.
Little Duck
Sleeps 2
Little Duck is a romantic bolthole for two just moments from the water’s edge.
The Mouse House
Sleeps 8
Stylish interiors meet a rolling garden with ocean views at The Mouse House.
