'Loveliest village in England' which is perfect for a wild sea swim

Taking a break on British shores has never been more popular than in recent years - and quite rightly so.

The charming fishing villages dotted along our coastline rank amongst the most beautiful in the world, with one particular gem standing out as an essential destination that's absolutely worth the journey.

Cornwall has predictably become a hotspot for domestic getaways, with its sparkling azure waters, pristine sandy beaches and scenic harbours leaving many visitors feeling as though they've been whisked away to somewhere far more exotic.

Nestled in Cornwall's western reaches and merely 12 miles from the bustling centre of St Ives sits the enchanting village of Mousehole, which is certainly no stranger to recognition.

Initially the settlement gained fame after being hailed "the loveliest village in England" by Welsh poet and writer Dylan Thomas during his honeymoon stay there, reports the Express, reports <a href="https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/loveliest-village-england-michelin-star-10444724" rel="Follow" target="_self">Cornwall Live</a>.

More recently though it featured in Conde Nast Traveller's compilation of England's finest seaside destinations for 2025, as they praised it as "one of the county's most picturesque fishing villages" and an ideal spot to "escape the hustle and bustle of city life".

The community boasts a picturesque harbour, breathtaking coastal panoramas and stands as a paradise for culinary enthusiasts - housing not one but two venues that have captured Michelin's attention.

The delightful village is decorated with enchanting whitewashed homes that border its slender, twisting cobbled lanes.

An abundance of craft boutiques and intimate tea rooms greet tourists, whilst the pristine waters invite those yearning for a peaceful kayaking adventure. And what superior method exists to restore vitality than indulging in a classic Cornish cream tea?

Visit Cornwall explained: "Mousehole is considered one of Cornwall's prettiest fishing villages, with two small sandy beaches inside its harbour quays, only accessible at low tide, and a long pebble beach running east toward Penlee Point.

"For keen swimmers, there's the Mousehole Rock Pool; a natural tidal pool and the perfect spot for a wild sea swim and a chance to spot seals out in the bay.

"There's an assortment of car parks in and around the harbour, free parking on the road coming into the village, and a good bus service from Penzance."

On TripAdvisor, the village has received glowing recommendations, with one five-star assessment SAYING: " A beautiful place to enjoy the local food, scenery and history.

"We visited several villages/cities in Cornwall prior to visiting this location so the expectations were high, spending the day here didn't disappoint."

Another visitor, in search of peace and quiet, said: "We really enjoyed our visit to Mousehole harbour, watching the boats go and out. Very relaxing, with plenty of place to sit down."