Polruan is a typically pretty Cornwall fishing village proud of its boat building heritage and literary connections. But you’ll be hauled back through the ages courtesy of 8th century St Saviour’s Ruin, which marks the spot once home to St Ruan to whom the village owes its name. Head south west along the cliff to take in Punche’s Cross and the mystery that surrounds its origins. Either side of the harbour spot the 14th century blockhouses designed to keep smugglers out. A Polruan holiday cottage with a sea view should be top of your list of ‘must-haves’!

Beyond history, fans of famous Cornwall authors will adore the fact that Daphne du Maurier wrote her first novel in the family home on the outskirts of Polruan. It’s not hard to appreciate how Polruan’s coastal perch and winding narrow laneways influenced her romanticism. And you won’t be alone in falling in love with this part of Kernow.

Across the river famous Fowey promises bustles around the yacht club, pubs, independent shops and eateries. Get there aboard the busy Polruan Ferry, which carries people between the two all year long.

Dream up your own plot line while staying in one of our Polruan holiday cottages.