Location: South West Coast Path, Looe to Polperro via Hannafore and Talland Bay, South East Cornwall
Distance from West Kellow Yurts: 10 minutes by road to Hannafore (start)
Walk distance: Around 4 miles each way (allow 2 hours each way)
The walk from Looe to Polperro along the South West Coast Path is the one walk every guest at West Kellow Yurts should do at least once. It takes you along some of the most photographed stretches of South East Cornwall coastline, past an 11th century monastery, through a tucked-away cove with a cafe at exactly the right point, and finishes in one of the most picturesque fishing villages in the country.
What to expect
The walk starts at Hannafore, on the western edge of Looe, where there's a small bay with views straight out to Looe Island. You join the South West Coast Path here and follow it west along the cliffs. The first stretch is gentle, with the sea on your left and grazing fields on your right, and you'll quickly leave Looe behind.
After about a mile you reach Portnadler Bay, then the path climbs over Hore Point and down into Talland Bay (around 2.4 miles from Hannafore). Talland is a quiet two-beach cove with a good cafe roughly two-thirds of the way along the walk, the perfect stop for a coffee, a sandwich, or a paddle if it's hot. Talland Bay is also one of the best dog-friendly beaches on this stretch of coast.
Past Talland the path climbs again, with views opening up west towards Polperro and the Devon coast on a clear day. The final stretch drops into Polperro itself through the Warren, the wooded cliff path on the east side of the village. You'll arrive at the harbour ready for fish and chips, a pint at the Three Pilchards, or just a wander through the lanes.
Getting there from West Kellow
Drive into Looe (around 10 minutes), cross the bridge to West Looe, and follow signs for Hannafore. There's pay and display parking along Hannafore Road. From the parking, walk west to the end of the road and pick up the coast path.
If you'd rather not double back, get the bus from Crumplehorn (just above Polperro) back to Looe; the 73 service runs through the day. Alternatively, walk just one way (Talland Bay makes a good turning point at around 2.4 miles).
Practical info
The walk is around 4 miles one way, with some steep ascents and descents, including steps. Allow around 2 hours each way at a relaxed pace, or longer if you want to stop. Sturdy footwear is essential, especially after rain (some sections get muddy). Bring water, especially in summer.
Is the Looe to Polperro coast path dog-friendly? Yes. Dogs are welcome along the whole route. Talland Bay is a year-round dog-friendly beach.
How long does it take to walk from Looe to Polperro? Around 2 hours each way for an average walker, with a stop at Talland Bay. A full out-and-back day with a long lunch in Polperro is comfortable.
Is the coast path suitable for buggies? No. The route has steps and uneven cliff sections that aren't suitable for pushchairs.
This stretch is part of the South West Coast Path National Trail and looked after in part by the National Trust, so the path is well maintained and waymarked.
While you're there
You can pair the walk with the doorstep nature reserves: Looe Island is visible from much of the path, and Kilminorth Woods sits just upriver from Looe if you want a contrasting woodland walk on a different day. If you'd rather skip the walk and just visit Polperro directly, drive to Crumplehorn car park at the top of the village.
Find out more: https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/15/
