Postal Town: Penzance (TR19)
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Mousehole, pronounced Mouzel, is a beautiful south-coast Cornish village that deserves a visit if you are in the area. It has a lovely harbour with a sprinkling of shops, restaurants and, of course, a pub.
ŠPaul Harris
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Mousehole, history and present-day details
Mousehole, pronounced Mouzel, is a beautiful south-coast Cornish village between Penzance and Lands End. It is a fishing village with a harbour. Its breakwater walls resemble two strong arms arched around the moored boats in the harbour, protecting them and the village from the stormy seas. The entrance to the harbour is boarded up during the winter months to provide more protection.
The harbour and the pilchard fishing background gave rise to the famous story, the Mousehole Cat, by Antonia Barber and illustrated by Nicola Bayley. It is the story of Mowzer, the cat and Tom the fisherman, who brave the wrath of the sea to save their village.
Mousehole, as it was named in the 13th century, was originally named Porthenys. It was named so because it was an island cove to the isle of St Clements, some 400 metres off the shore. Aside from fishing, the village is also near to many tin and copper mines, which are as old as 2000 years.
Mousehole was burned to the ground in 1595 by the Spaniards, except for Keigwin Manor House, which still stands to this day. Thankfully, the village was rebuilt with a wonderful charm, which was described by Dylan Thomas as the loveliest in England.
Dolly Pentreath was said to be last the person to only speak the Cornish language over two hundred years ago. The language is now undergoing a revival.
1981 marked the sad loss of eight Penlee lifeguards, who went to the rescue of the Union Star off of nearby Lamorna.
Christmas time is special in Mousehole and the harbour front is lit up with lights, which is well worth a visit. On the anniversary of the Penlee lifeboat disaster the lights are switched off for an hour as a mark of respect and remembrance.
ŠPaul Harris
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Looking for Somewhere to Stay?
We have some fantastic hotels and guest houses to choose from all
over the country. Whether it’s a short break or a 2-week holiday, you
will be sure to find something that meets your requirements.
Here is a random sample of what is on offer for the area you are
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Situated in Newquay, the bustling centre of Cornwall, this small, friendly hotel occupies an excellent position from which to explore this scenic county and its lovely beaches. Whatever time of the year you visit, Cornwall has something to offer. From the Invernook Hotel you can be active or adventurous, lazy or relaxed: swim; sunbathe; surf; fish; walk; horse-ride; golf; play tennis; bowl; and enjoy the nightlife. Alternatively you can explore the coast, countryside, old fishing villages and Inns. A level walk away from the town's amenities, beaches, harbour, shops, coach, rail and bus stations, the Invernook enjoys a long established reputation, boasting bookings all-year-round.
Bedrooms: 7
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Greenbank Hotel's setting is in a truly enviable position, with its idyllic seafront location in Falmouth situated off the A39. Dating from 1640, the Greenbank is Falmouth's oldest hotel and is a fascinating collection of sympathetically and beautifully restored buildings perched on the sea wall and private quay. The Greenbank boasts one of the most sensational panoramic waterfront views in England. Hours can slip by as you follow the yachts sailing quietly out to sea. Even storm clouds gathering over the bay are dramatic.
Bedrooms: 58
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In the historic Cornish village of Porthleven, with a commanding position overlooking the harbour, the inn has 14 en suite rooms, many with stunning harbour and Atlantic views. This traditional inn has both a bar and lounge/restaurant, where you can drink with the local fishermen or dine in a relaxed pub atmosphere. Fully refurbished in 2003, the Harbour Inn has kept its traditional values and introduced the modern comforts that bring many guests back time and time again.
Bedrooms: 14
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Ideally situated to enjoy all that Falmouth has to offer, this large, family-run guesthouse stands overlooking the picturesque harbour, just 150 metres away from the beach. Originally built and owned by Lord Kimberly in 1870, The Red House Guest House still retains a wealth of its old charm and character. Over the years it has been updated to provide all that you may need for a peaceful and relaxing stay, including free Wi-Fi internet throughout and a computer in the welcoming lounge. During your stay at The Red House you can easily explore the main attractions in Cornwall. The beauty spots of Land's End, The Lizard, St Michael's Mount, Polperro, St Mawes, and Isles of Scilly are all within easy reach.
Bedrooms: 9
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The Edgcumbe Hotel is situated in a superb position, overlooking the sea at Newquay, Cornwalls premier resort. A resort that offers so much to holiday makers, young and old, throughout the four seasons of the year. Dominating the town is the rugged coastline with seven miles of golden sand, washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Newquays beaches provide firm golden sand backed by dramatic cliffs with coves, sand dunes, caves and exiting rock pools ready and waiting to be explored. Also, of course some of the best surfing in the country, hosting leading international surfing championships for a number of years. The Edgcumbe is situated in a superb position overlooking the beautiful cliff tops of Newquay Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, and only a short walk to the town centre. Among our facilities is a sauna (chargeable). Sam Cobley and family have been in the hotel trade for 40 years. He has a dedicated team that ensures from the moment you arrive until it is time to depart; your stay exceeds expectations and gives you that home from home feeling.
Bedrooms: 80
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