Season: spring
I encountered a sharp, clear dawn for this re-visit to Looe in early spring. The tide was high and there was a fine view back to the beach and town from the end of the Banjo Pier, with occasional waves breaking over its surface. As the town started to wake up, the fish processors, wholesalers and retailers were well under way with their working days.
The scene at dawn, from the end of the Banjo Pier.
Season: winter
The sea was flat calm on my winter re-visit to Looe, on Cornwall’s South East coast. There were lots of visitors in the town, enjoying the many independent shops in the twisting streets. The harbour was a picture at high tide and I was struck by the clarity of the water, with the seabed clearly visible through ten feet of water at the harbour entrance. This town feels go-ahead and energetic, but with due deference paid to the fishing community and its roots. I had a really enjoyable visit.
My chat with Mick, from the Harbour Commision at Looe.
Ernie, who runs the ferry across the harbour in Looe.
The beach at Looe, from the Banjo Pier.
Season: autumn
Looe is a top tourist destination on Cornwall’s south coast, but I found it to be a thriving working harbour too during my early morning visit in December. You can park right in the centre of town and easily walk down through attractive shops and restaurants to the beach on the east side of town. The beach is surprisingly large, looking across to the bay towards Looe Island. There are toilets and all facilities immediately to hand, and there are great walks on the South West Coast Path in both directions. A great place to visit for nature, shopping and a proper Cornish atmosphere.
A visit to see Angie and Jackie from Looe’s Pengelly’s fishmongers, on the harbour in Looe.
My chat at Nippers shellfish shop in Looe.
The beach at Looe.


