Porthallow, meaning ‘Port at the end of the Moor’, is a small, tucked-away village on the east coast of the Lizard Peninsula. It was once a busy fishing port, famous for its thriving pilchard fleet – in fact, the old pilchard cellars can still be seen near the pebbly beach. The local inn, yes, you guessed it – The Five Pilchards is named after the traditional way of counting the fish in groups of five, and reminds us how important the industry was to the Cornish economy.
The history of the pub can be traced as far back as the 1830s, and inside, you’ll find a fascinating range of nautical memorabilia to explore whilst sampling a locally made pasty or a steaming bowl of Porthallow Chowder.
Just a mile off shore is the Manacles Reef, a rocky outcrop, and the cause of countless historical shipwrecks. It’s a popular site for diving, accessed from the neighbouring Porthkerris Cove, where you can hire the gear, or book a boat trip to snorkel with the basking sharks.
You’ll find St Keverne nearby: a handful of shops, two inns and a cluster of whitewashed cottages, all huddled around the village square, and overlooked by the impressive 15th Century church, St Akervnus. On a balmy summer’s evening you may catch some traditional Cornish music from the St Kerverne Band or Male Voice Choir.
Just a few miles south brings you to the Lizard Village and the most southerly point in the UK. Rugged scenery, the famous lighthouse and Cornish Cream Teas. Meander in the souvenir shops, take a stroll along the blustery coastal path, and finish off the day with a hot salt-and-vinegary fish supper and breathe in the crisp sea air.
Holidays in Porthallow are best spend exploring the stunning Cornish coastline. The Lizard Peninsula is the Cornwall of Poldark or Rosamunde Pilcher’s The Shell Seekers. It’s the Cornwall of quiet leafy lanes, patchwork fields, and the sounds of the sea. Just a short drive in the opposite direction is the beautiful Helford River where you can explore the tranquil creeks and inlets, tiny coves and pretty riverside villages.
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