Latitude50
11 April 2018
A glistening jewel in the North Cornish coast's crown, the tiny fishing haven of Port Quin is home to picture-perfect stone cottages, a sheltered cove and the iconic landmark of Doyden Castle.
Nestled between Port Isaac and Polzeath, this enchanting, near-deserted cove is shielded by high cliffs to either side. Port Quin's calm waters are a joy to bathe in through the summer months, and little ones will delight in the plentiful rock pools and caves exposed with the falling tide.
Equally as magical in the winter months, Port Quin witnesses many savage storms, and from the safety of the headland, you can watch the fantastic display of huge, foamy waves rolling in and crashing through the rocky inlet.
The natural harbour of Port Quin once had a thriving pilchard fishing industry as well as tin mining, but over the years, both industries went into decline, and the village eventually became deserted.
Lined with stone cottages immaculately kept by the National Trust, Port Quin has rollercoaster walks to both sides of the bay that reveal far-reaching views of undulating cliffs and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a look around Port Quin with our photo guide below.
Port Quin has a small National Trust car park (by voluntary donation). From here, you can easily walk across the lane to the beach.
Once across the road, a stony path leads you down to the rocky shores of Port Quin Bay.
Port Quin is a fantastic place for a family day out. Here, you can swim, kayak or paddleboard around the bay, exploring the caves and inlets.
Port Quin is often frequented by walkers who pass through on their hike along the South West Coast Path.
Head up the road to the left of the beach, and you can hop across the style onto the grassy fields that lead along the side of the bay.
Follow the footpath lined by spongy grass and rabbit warrens, which sweeps around the coast, revealing dramatic views.
The acres of rolling fields here are a great place for dogs to run around and let off some steam.
As you round the corner, you’ll spot the truncated Gothic tower of Doyden Castle sat proudly in the distance on its tump of headland.
Constructed in 1827, Doyden Castle was built by wealthy local Samuel Symons to entertain his friends with drinking and gambling. It now belongs to the National Trust.
From the headland to the left of Port Quin, you can enjoy views across Lundy Bay and as far as The Rumps and Mouls Island.
If you take the coast path to the right of the beach, you’ll get a whole different perspective of the bay.
The coast path on this side is equally as dramatic and hugs the cliff all the way around the headland to Port Isaac.
For those who enjoy a long coastal ramble, Port Quin can be accessed from Rock, Daymer Bay, Polzeath or Port Isaac via the scenic South West Coast Path. Alternatively, it is within easy reach of all our properties by car.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.