Mevagissey is a village located about 5 miles south of St Austell that used to live off fishing. Even today, you can watch how the fishermen bring in their daily catch and then enjoy delicious fresh seafood in the town’s many stellar eateries. Here, you can travel back in time as you wander the narrow, cobbled streets, shop for unique Cornish gift and visit art galleries ‐ it’s no surprise that the beautiful, rugged countryside and charming villages of Cornwall have inspired hundreds of artists.
Culture & attractions in Mevagissey
From Polkirt Hill, you have a wonderful view over the harbour and the street layout ‐ the ideal place to get an overview of Mevagissey.
As a fishing village, there’s no doubt that the harbour is the most vibrant part of Mevagissey. The port goes back to medieval times, although the current site was built in 1774. Wander around the harbour and enjoy the views and many colourful fishing boats or even take some fishing trips on your own. The old lifeboat house currently houses an aquarium that young and old can enjoy.
With so many artists drawn to the area, Mevagissey is also home to a variety of small art workshops and art galleries where you can admire and buy paintings, photography, crafts and even regional delicacies to take home.
Mevagissey Museum itself is a museum piece: the creaky old building houses a big collection of pictures and prints as well as many items from village’s past.
The biggest event in Mevagissey is the annual Fest Week which takes place at the end of June. During this week, the artists and artisans of the area flock to town to show off their skills and entertain tourists and locals alike, mostly with music and dance. At the end of the week, a vibrant parade takes place and firework brightens up the tranquil Cornish night sky.
Must-do highlights in Mevagissey
If you feel like getting up close with nature, you can hike along the coastal path to Gorran Haven. The 3.5 mile walk will lead you along the tranquil coastline past a forgotten chapel and lush pastures to the beach of Gorran Haven and is suitable for everyone in good health, even if you are not an experienced hiker.
A tamer natural experience, the Lost Gardens of Heligan is a lush restored Victorian Garden that is part of the Heligan estate and is located just a short drive from Mevagissey. This paradise is by no means your typical groomed British garden ‐ from primieval ferns that make you feel like you’re in the jungle to Europe’s only remaining pineapple pit, you will discover surprises at every turn.
Another, more recent garden is the stunning Eden Project. Here you can learn about the unique and delicate relationship between man and nature in two awe-inspiring giant conservatories that house more than 5,000 plant species from all over the world.
Eating & drinking in Mevagissey
It would be a shame if you went to Mevagissey and didn’t try any of the fresh seafood caught here every day. Your best bet for the freshest and most carefully prepared seafood are the small restaurants right by the harbourside.
For fine dining, the Salamander Restaurant also specialises in Cornish food and serves a variety of rich Cornish cheeses as well as outstanding beef and lamb from local farms as well as Cornish wine. Roovray’s Restaurant is a great stop along Polkirt Hill also offers generous servings of seafood as well as a selection of Cornish ales.
Accommodation in Mevagissey
The best way to spend your time in Mevagissey is to live like a local and rent your own holiday apartment or cottage.
The Net Lofts is an ideal holiday home for a family holiday: with five bedrooms spread over four floors, everyone will be able to enjoy their privacy as well as common meals on the balcony that overlooks the park.
Harbour Heights House is located above Victoria Pier and offers spectacular views of the harbour and the sea while the inside is lovingly decorated in art-deco style. If you’ve had enough of the sea, just relax in the big garden which is perfect for a hearty BBQ.
So that’s our round up of things to do on a weekend in Mevagissey. Have you ever been there? What would you recommend doing if someone went there for the weekend? Please share you experience with us…