If you’re looking for a quintessential Cornish fishing village, look no further than Port Isaac. Nestled on the rugged North Coast, this picturesque village is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit.
As a local to the area, I’ve spent countless hours exploring Port Isaac’s winding streets, stunning coastline, and charming pubs. In this blog post, I’ll share my insider tips on what to see and do in this idyllic village, as well as my tips for Doc Martin fans searching for the film locations.
First off, a bit of background. Port Isaac has a long and fascinating history as a fishing village, but most people these days know it as the location of the hit British TV show, ‘Doc Martin’, and the home of internationally renowned folk group, Fisherman’s Friends.
But in the centuries before Doc Martin came alone, locals have fished for pilchards and lobsters in these waters, and the village’s narrow streets and cottages were built to accommodate the fishing industry.
Today, the village is still home to a small but thriving fishing community, as well as a growing number of artists and writers who have been inspired by the village’s natural beauty.
Getting to Port Isaac
Getting to Port Isaac is fairly straightforward, but it’s worth noting that the village is located on the rugged and winding north coast of Cornwall, so the journey can be a little bit of an adventure.
If you’re driving, the best way to reach Port Isaac is via the A39. This road runs along the north coast of Cornwall, and offers stunning views of the sea and the rugged coastline.
From the east, you’ll need to follow the A39 through Wadebridge and Camelford, before turning off onto the B3314 which will take you into Port Isaac.
From the west, you’ll need to follow the A39 through Bude and then turn onto the B3263, which will take you into Port Isaac.
If you’re using public transport, the nearest train station to Port Isaac is Bodmin Parkway, which is about 30 miles away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Port Isaac.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from other nearby towns such as Wadebridge or Camelford.
However you choose to travel, I’d recommend allowing plenty of time for the journey, and taking the opportunity to explore the stunning scenery and charming towns along the way.
Things to do in Port Isaac
Although a short-drive away from some of Cornwall’s best gardens and National Trust properties, one of the best things about Port Isaac is simply wandering around and exploring the village’s nooks and crannies.
The narrow streets are lined with picturesque cottages and traditional pubs, and there’s always something new to discover around every corner.
Walk to the harbour from the top of the hill
I recommend starting your visit at the top of the village, near the church of St. Peter’s, and working your way down towards the harbour.
As you make your way down the hill, be sure to stop and admire the stunning views of the coastline. Port Isaac is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it’s easy to see why.
The rocky cliffs and crashing waves are truly breathtaking, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in the scenery.
Once you reach the bottom of the village, you’ll find yourself at the picturesque harbour. This is the heart of Port Isaac, and it’s where you’ll find the village’s famous fish restaurants and pubs.
Port Isaac is also a dog-friendly beach, so make sure you bring your four-legged friend!
Explore the coastline from the sea
For the more adventurous, sea-loving visitors, you can choose from one of the many companies offering watersports and coasteering.
Based a 10-minute drive from Port Isaac in Port Quinn, Cornish Coast Adventures offers sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and coasteering trips around the rugged coastline.
While in nearby Port Gaverne (just the next bay over from Port Isaac), Cornish Rock Tors run sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and sea swimming.
Port Isaac even has its own Speedboat tour company, Boaty, which combines adrenalin and a wealth of trivia about the local area. You may even be lucky enough to see local wildlife in their natural habitats including seals and dolphins.
Visit Doyden Castle
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience in Port Isaac, a visit to Doyden Castle is a must.
This striking building perched on the cliffs above the village was originally built as a summerhouse for a wealthy landowner in the 19th century, but has since been converted into a holiday home.
While you can’t go inside, you can admire the stunning views of the sea and the coastline from the outside. It’s a bit of a hike to reach the castle, but the panoramic views make it well worth the effort.
Plus, the walk itself is a lovely way to take in the natural beauty of the area. Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the terrain can be steep and uneven in places.
Hike from Port Isaac to Port Quin
Of course, there’s more to Port Isaac than just the harbour and the village streets. There are plenty of walks and hikes to explore in the surrounding area.
One of my favourites is the Port Isaac to Port Quin walk, which takes you along the stunning coastline and offers panoramic views of the sea. The walk is relatively easy, and it’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise while taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Visit during Port Isaac Arts Festival
Finally, if you’re looking for a bit of culture, be sure to check out the Port Isaac Arts Festival.
This annual event, held in August, showcases the work of local artists and musicians, and it’s a great way to get a taste of the vibrant arts scene in Port Isaac.
Further reading: 13 THINGS TO DO IN CORNWALL WITH THE KIDS
Visiting Port Isaac For Doc Martin Fans
For fans of the TV show, a visit to Port Isaac (or “Portwenn” as its known in the show) is an opportunity to step into the world of Doc Martin.
The show has been a huge hit in the UK and around the world, and its popularity has brought a lot of attention to the village over the years.
Many of the filming locations have become popular tourist spots, and visitors can see the places where the characters lived, worked, and played.
Visit Doc Martin’s house on the hill
One of the most iconic locations in the show is the Doc Martin house, which sits on the hill overlooking the harbour.
The house, which is actually a real-life private residence, has become a must-see spot for fans of the show. You can walk up the hill to take a look at the house and take some photos, but please remember to be respectful of the residents’ privacy.
Doc Martin’s surgery
Another popular spot is the surgery, which is located in a white building near the harbour.
The building is again a private residence, but fans of the show will recognize it as the place where Doc Martin treats his patients. The surgery is a popular spot for photos and selfies, but again, please be respectful of the residents’ privacy.
Louisa’s Schoolhouse
Our third key location to visit is Louisa’s schoolhouse on the hill, which is now a hotel in real life called ‘The School Hotel’.
Doc Martin guided tours
If you’re interested in learning more about the show and its impact on the village, I recommend taking a guided tour with Port Isaac Tours.
There are several companies that offer Doc Martin tours, and they can take you to all of the key filming locations in and around Port Isaac.
The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can give you insider information on the show and its history in the village.
Staying in Port Isaac, Cornwall
Port Isaac has a variety of hotels, B&Bs, self-catering cottages, holiday parks and camping/glamping grounds in the surrounding area.
The Slipway is a popular hotel located right on the harbour front. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, and many offer stunning views of the sea.
The Old School Hotel is another charming hotel located just a short walk from the harbour, and offers comfortable rooms and a cosy atmosphere. The building was originally a school, and was then the filming location for the school in Doc Martin. It’s since been converted into a hotel with a lot of character.
For a more rural retreat, Cornish Tipi Holidays offers wild camping and Tipis. Located near the old Tregildrans Quarry in North Cornwall, on the outskirts of Port Isaac and has been described as “magical” by past visitors.
If self-catering is more your thing, check out the National Trust self-catering properties in the area.
Restaurants in Port Isaac and the surrounding area
Port Isaac has a huge variety of dining options, from Michelin-starred to more casual pubs, and is well-known for its high-quality grub.
Michelin-starred dining
There is not one, but two Michelin-starred restaurants in Port Isaac.
In the heart of the Harbour is Nathan Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, a relaxed Michelin-starred restaurant that’s a must-visit for seafood lovers. The menu is focused on fresh, locally-sourced seafood, and the dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavour.
Further up the hill is Outlaw’s New Road, which also has a Michelin-star and is more fine-dining in style than Fish Kitchen.
Casual eateries
We love The Angry Anchovy for delicious pizzas, and Cornish Cove Cafe for a coffee and cake.
For a quick and easy snack or lunch, Chapel Cafe is aso a great option. They offer a range of pasties, sandwiches, and sweet treats, and of course a famous Cornish cream tea, all made with locally-sourced ingredients and baked fresh daily.
Pub Fare
If you’re looking for a cosy pub, one of our favourites is The Golden Lion, which has been serving up fresh seafood since the 18th century. The pub’s outdoor seating area overlooks the harbour, making it the perfect spot for a pint or a bite to eat on a sunny day.
The Mote is a rustic but elegant pub located in the heart of Port Isaac, and serves up hearty pub fare and a great selection of local beers and ciders. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly, and the food is delicious!
A short walk from Port Isaac, The Port Gaverne Hotel is a slightly more upscale pub and boasts a fantastic restaurant that serves up classic British dishes with a modern twist. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons and the availability of local ingredients.
Visit for Doc Martin, stay for the food
Doc Martin has had a huge impact on Port Isaac, and it’s a big part of the village’s identity today. If you’re a fan of the show, be sure to take some time to explore the filming locations and soak up the atmosphere of this unique and charming village.
Port Isaac is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Cornwall’s North Coast. From the charming village streets to the stunning coastline, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic fishing village.
So why not plan a visit and discover this hidden gem for yourself? Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
