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 land mark of Doyden Castle.
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 land mark of Doyden Castle
Nestled between Port Isaac and Polzeath is the enhanting, near-deserted cove of Port Quin. 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 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.
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, that 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 will spot the truncated Gothic tower of Doyden Castle sat proudly in the distance on its tump of headland
Built 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 will 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 Coastal Path. Alternatively, it is within easy reach of all our properties by car.
