Holiday Cottages in Port Isaac

Book a holiday cottage in Port Isaac and spend a break exploring one of the jewels in the North Cornwall crown.

Why book cottages in Port Isaac?

One of the treasures of North Cornwall, Port Isaac is a quaint and picturesque fishing village nestling in a steep sided valley. It retains its charm by remaining unchanged from its days of fishing, slate export and smuggling in the previous century.

Holiday cottages in Port Isaac range from the small whitewashed and slate hung fisherman’s cottages, to larger cliff top retreats. With the local shops and businesses all huddled in the vicinity too, everything you need is on the doorstep.

A self-catering Port Isaac holiday might even involve a brush with TV stardom. Port Isaac is used as a filming location for Poldark and is the fictional village of ‘Port Wenn’ for Doc Martin.

Things to do on a self-catering Port Isaac Holiday

Port Isaac cottages are ideal for those seeking somewhere to slow down. You can fill your time with rambles along the South West Coast Path, sea air and spectacular coastal scenery.

Port Isaac accommodation lies along the narrow, mostly pedestrianised, streets and thoroughfares, as well as local businesses and cosy pubs. You can catch a performance by Fisherman’s Friends, a sea shanty singing group, on the platt on Friday nights. Afterwards, head to one of celebrity chef Nathan Outlaw’s two excellent local seafood restaurants.

The secluded sandy harbour provides ample opportunity to go crabbing and shrimping in the many rock pools revealed as the tide retreats. Port Isaac village is flanked by two other ports; Port Quin and Port Gaverne. The former is owned by the National Trust and is a peaceful place with no shops and only a snack van in the summer months. Locals and tourists still visit Port Gaverne regularly, tending to launch light craft from the beach.

Speaking of landmarks and places of interest, you'll be pleased to know that the famous Tintagel Castle is only a short drive away from this village, which also makes for a wonderful place to go for a day trip from Port Isaac.

And, of course, Port Isaac is just north of Polzeath properties, Rock cottages and the sands of Daymer Bay. So even if you don’t choose a place to stay in Port Isaac, you’re nearby to a host of wonderful North Cornwall locations.

Port Isaac FAQs

What makes Port Isaac a popular holiday destination?

Port Isaac is a picturesque fishing village on Cornwall’s north coast, renowned for its quaint narrow streets, traditional Cornish cottages and it's historic harbour. It's also famous for being the filming location of the TV series Doc Martin, so expect to find plenty of familiar filming locations whilst visiting!

Is Port Isaac a good place to go for family holidays?

Yes, Port Isaac is ideal for family getaways! The village offers a safe and laid-back environment with easy access to sandy beaches, family-friendly pubs and plenty of walking trails, including the ever-popular South West Coastal Path. For children, there's plenty of places to go crabbing in the harbour and lots of opportunities to explore the rock pools at low tide, while nearby attractions like Tintagel Castle and the Eden Project offer great places to go for day trips.

What is the easiest way to get to Port Isaac?

Port Isaac can be reached by car via the A39 or B3267, with the nearest train station in Bodmin Parkway (about 13 miles away). While the village centre has narrow lanes with limited vehicle access, several public car parks are available at the top of the village, being only a short walk down to the harbour.

Types of Port Isaac Accommodation

From lovely timber lodges, to rustic barn conversions; Port Isaac cottages include a wide range of properties.

Port Isaac is a great location for a romantic break to Cornwall. You can choose a short break, a cottage with sea views right in the heart of the village or a Port Isaac lodge and bunker down with your other half for some quality time. Take evening strolls as the sun goes down, and wine and dine in the local foodie spots.

Give your canine companion a holiday too and choose a dog-friendly cottage in Port Isaac or a dog-friendly cottage in North Cornwall. The beaches and South West Coast Path are natural playgrounds for pups.

For a bigger group, why not consider Trewetha Farm, a group of eight cottages sleeping up to 39 guests, ideal for family gatherings or special occassions?

Discover the newest properties on board with John Bray for the latest additions to the portfolio.

Secure your stay at a holiday cottage in Port Isaac with John Bray Cornish Holidays; book online or ring one of our experts!