Looe in South-East Cornwall is a UK staycation hotspot this year, thanks to the popularity of the new BBC crime drama series, Beyond Paradise, which is filmed in this picturesque coastal location, doubling for the fictional town of Shipton Abbot.
For those still looking for a UK summer break, Clive Dixon, Managing Director at Cornish Collection, recommends his 10 top favourite things to see and do in Looe and the surrounding area:
- Looe is an ideal base to explore the 300-mile South-West Coast path, with ample walking routes in the area. Highly recommended for a reasonable hike is Looe to Polperro, with Talland Bay Beach Café along the way for a halfway break
- Free to visit and set to be bigger and better this year is the Looe Food and Drink Festival (Sunday 15th September). Be sure to save the date, as all the contestants from this year’s Great British Menu South-West Heats will be live on stage
- Slightly further afield but a must-visit is the infamous Eden Project, featuring the world’s largest indoor rainforests and biomes
- Get out on the water and discover amazing wildlife along the Cornish coastline. Options include Looe Sea Safari, glass bottom boat trips from Looe Harbour, self-drive boat hire and more! Top tip: interested in a fishing trip? There is an array of charter boats offering mackerel fishing, reef fishing and Atlantic bluefin tuna fishing as well as regular ferries to Looe Island, for the chance to get close to a fascinating range of seabirds and to the local seal population
- Whether it’s a Cornish pasty or fine dining, there are some fantastic restaurants in Looe, such as Sardine Factory, Fifty and the Talland Bay Hotel. Top tip: Fore Street is a popular foodie spot
- Head to Hannafore Beach, Plaidy Beach or Millendreath Beach if you and the waggy tails of the family are after a sandy escape. Top tip: The Old Salutation Inn and The Jolly Sailor are two fantastic dog-friendly pubs after a day at the beach
- For cheese, cider and wine tastings, head over to Looe Valley Vineyard and Cornish Orchards
- The Monkey Sanctuary is a great family day out. Meet a range of different species of rescued monkeys at this safe haven
- A great spot for golfers, there’s a variety of courses within easy reach including local Looe Golf Club. Top tip: If you stay at a Cornish Collection holiday property you’ll receive a 30% discount
- Just nine miles from Looe is Polmartin Riding, where everyone from beginners to advanced levels can enjoy horse riding lessons and trips
Clive Dixon, Managing Director at Cornish Collection, commented: “For a while there was a debate about where Beyond Paradise was actually set and where most of the filming took place, as the script referred to South Devon. However, the beautiful seaside town of Looe proved to be the perfect setting for the production and has given another reason to visit this glorious part of the world.
“If you’re after some inspiration for your summer staycation, our wide variety of homes away from home feature modern facilities, unrivalled service and panoramic coastal views.”
Cornish Collection is the largest holiday lettings agency specialising in self-catering holiday cottages and accommodation in Looe. From dog-friendly options and spacious accommodation for families and larger groups, to luxury getaways and romantic retreats, Cornish Collection offers a range of versatile properties for those looking to escape to ‘Shipton Abbot’ and follow in the footsteps of Humphrey as he cracks his cases in the idyllic seaside town.
What’s more, Cornish Collection has also launched an exclusive offer for stays booked during this month.
Book a Cornish Collection accommodation during the month of April and receive a free boat trip for 2 people to Looe Island. Quote the word LOOEISLAND24 on the Cornish Collection website or on the phone when booking. Terms and conditions apply.*
For more information about Cornish Collection and to book your stay visit: www.cornishcollection.co.uk/ or call 01503 262736
*Offer available on select properties and only valid on stays booked between 9th April and 30th October 2024. Please note trips are dependent on weather conditions.
