Nestled on the Cornish coast, just three miles west of Penzance, is the idyllic village and fishing port of Mousehole. This place could easily be mistaken for a scene straight out of a dreamy Cornish postcard.
Visitors are welcomed by delightful cobbled streets lined with traditional stone cottages as they meander through a maze of art galleries, gift shops and eateries before settling down on the waterfront benches to watch the ebb and flow of the tide. The former pilchard port - pronounced "Mowzel," not "mouse hole" - also features a pebble beach and a small, surprisingly sandy beach in the harbour with crystal clear waters.
This beach enforces a year-round dog ban, making it a favourite amongst families with young children. It's a common sight to see children crabbing in the pristine waters, while their parents relax on the beach, soaking up the view.
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Rich in history, the village that the Daily Mail likened to "stepping into a postcard" has roots dating back to the 1300s when it served as a significant harbour and the primary port for Mount's Bay. The now peaceful village also witnessed its fair share of action during the Spanish invasions in the 16th century, when soldiers assaulted the coast amid the conflict between the two nations.
Tourists to Mousehole, described as the "loveliest village in Britain" by Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, can immerse themselves in its simplistic lifestyle. Visitors often enjoy a local ale, visit independent art galleries or take a dip in the natural tidal pool, according to the Mirror, reports the Express.
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![The sandy beach at Mousehole](https://i2-prod.cornwalllive.com/news/uk-world-news/article9395807.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_the-sandy-beach-at-mousehole.jpg)
The popular harbour views and gastronomical delights such as the offerings at Mousehole Deli and Kitchen or an afternoon tea at Tremayne Tea Room only add to the allure.
The Ship Inn, nestled at the heart of the village, is a beloved eatery, serving maritime dishes like scampi and chips or rump steak with sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Gaining attention with a TripAdvisor Travellers Award and a four out of five rating on TripAdvisor, it's the harbour view and delectable dishes that attract diners.
Offering a continental feel, 2 Fore Street is a stylish bistro-style restaurant situated on the Mousehole harbour front. The view across Mount's Bay complements the hand-picked crab salad, grilled lemon sole fillets or a glass of chilled prosecco you might order.
It's certainly another must-visit for every visitor to Mousehole.
![The Ship Inn](https://i2-prod.cornwalllive.com/news/uk-world-news/article9395808.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_the-ship-inn.jpg)
The quaint village is adorned with Christmas lights as part of an annual tradition that coincides with Tom Bawcocks Eve on December 23, when the local delicacy Stargazy pie is prepared. The lights are respectfully switched off on December 19th in memory of the lifeboatmen from the village who tragically lost their lives in the 1981 Penlee disaster.
Despite the traditional cottages standing proudly by the sea for many years, the accommodation available in the village is far from outdated. Beach Retreats offers a range of properties across Mousehole and beyond, boasting interiors worthy of a magazine feature set against idyllic backdrops.
Whether you're seeking a break from the daily hustle and bustle on Harbour Beach, or keen to discover hidden treasures nestled within its winding lanes, there's no disputing that Mousehole is one of the most enchanting villages in the West Country, warranting a visit regardless of the season.
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