Winding old streets, a picturesque harbour, exceptional restaurants… Port Isaac in North Cornwall really does have everything you need for the perfect coastal holiday. Forget the famous, fictional Portwenn from ITV’s Doc Martin: the real location is even better.

In a very crowded field, Port Isaac is one of the most attractive fishing villages in Cornwall. Its Conservation Area status has ensured that the village centre remains unspoilt, and one of the real pleasures of a trip to Port Isaac is simply wandering among its narrow lanes of old whitewashed cottages.

Wanderers soon reach the harbour with its old “platt”, the cobbled space where catches are unloaded. Port Isaac Platt is now best known as the place where the Fisherman’s Friends shanty group met to sing. Stroll across the shingley beach, criss-crossed with ropes and sheltered by the harbour arm. After exploring, find a bar or restaurant with a view of the sea, or pick up some fresh fish to cook in your Port Isaac holiday cottage.

Port Isaac is also a great base to explore the beaches and clifftops of North Cornwall, among the most beautiful parts of the long Cornish coast. Head for the pretty little coves of Port Gaverne and Port Quin or take the kids to sandy Polzeath or Daymer Bay for the day.

How do you get to Port Isaac? Leave the A30 at the Wadebridge exit, then follow the A395 to the A39. Look out for signs to Port Isaac and the B3314.

View our range of Port Isaac Holiday Cottages to get the most out of this beautiful fishing village.