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Mousehole
There are very few places that can be found in the United Kingdom that have retained their original character and charm in the way that the tiny fishing village of Mousehole has.
Mousehole (pronounced "Mowzel") is one of Cornwall's most picturesque hamlets; a stunning collection of yellow-lichened houses, built from the local finely grained Lamorna granite.
Mousehole is a very attractive tourist destination. A small and very safe beach is located in a sheltered part of the harbour which is popular with families, particularly those with small children.
St Clement's Isle - a small rocky islet once the home to an ancient hermit lies just offshore of the harbour wall. A few hundred yards along the coast from the village lies a huge cave which - so some people say - gives rise to the name of the village (Mouse Hole!)
Upcoming Events
Sea Salt and Sail - Friday 05 July 2024 to Sunday 07 July 2024
Sea Salt and Sail
Mousehole, our 500 year old, beautiful fishing village, hosts a bi-annual festival called Sea Salts and Sail (SS&S). It is a unique event put together by dedicated folk from our community, aimed at preserving our Cornish maritime history. SS&S is held over a three day mid July weekend. We invite scores of historic vessels to fill the harbour, re-creating the sights, smells and flavour of what was once an important, vibrant fishing port. Traditional wooden vessels, (from Mounts Bay, to Falmouth and Brittany) are rigged with spars and tan sails and line the harbour walls. They then set out for an impressive 'parade of sail' over the three days, a sight that stirs the heart of even the most hardened land lubber.
This is a very photogenic event and this year our festival opener is Chris Blake, OBE, an international tall ship skipper. Chris also captained the ship Endeavour for the filming of Master and Commander (with the screen 'captain' Russell Crowe).
Stalls are set up on the quay selling gifts and local produce, there's a traditional fish smoker and a local man demonstrates the art of making traditional willow lobster pots. We have food stalls, children's activities and bands playing everything from shanties to rock, long into the night.
Apart from 20 odd classics in the bay, there will be an opportunity for kid's to make Corkers (small yachts) and then racing them across the harbour. Also of interest, might be the Surf Action charity team carving maritime figures from wood, sea weed foraging walks and talks, or a dozen or so ropes to practise your knots tying skills.
On a typical day, the harbour, quay and beaches are packed with excited families awed by the sights and sounds; eating, drinking, dancing, laughing, and taking pictures. It brings together all age groups, educating and inspiring a new generation in a fun and hands-on way.
Mousehole Harbour
Nr Penzance
