Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING
Lilac Cottage is a stone built two bedroom fisherman's cottage. It has been contemporarily renovated whilst still retaining its charm and feel of a coastal cottage. It offers a comfortable base to explore the magnificent Cornish coastline. We have deliberately chosen not to allow pets, as although we know many people love their four-legged friends, we want to ensure that those who are not so keen are welcomed to a pet-free zone!
On entering Lilac Cottage you will find an open-plan kitchen/living area offering a fully fitted kitchen including integrated dishwasher, fridge & oven with grill, ceramic touch hob, extractor hood & microwave. Should you decide to cook, one can see across the Fowey estuary and the boats sailing on it!
The living area (looking out towards the courtyard garden) has an eating area for 4 persons - small table with bench seating either side and a comfy seating area including sofa, beech framed armchair & small armless upholstered window chair. A traditional cast iron woodburning stove is the centerpiece for lighting during the cold winter months although a wall-mounted panel radiator is available for use. A small flat screen television & DVD player is also available.
A small but fairly steep turned staircase with handrail & rope bannister takes you to the first floor....
The first floor offers two bedrooms; one being a double room with built in wardrobe (overlooking the courtyard garden & village), the other offering a 3ft single bed with another 3ft pull-out adult bed under should it be required. This bed may be raised to the same level as the first. This room also has a built in wardrobe and overlooks the stunning Fowey estuary. Both bedrooms have space-saving stripped-pine sliding doors. The simple but contemporary renovated bathroom offers an electric shower, small sink, w.c. and electric towel rail. In addition, there is underfloor heating for those cold winter months (available between October-April).
To the front of the property is a small contained paved outside area suitable for relaxing for those all important drinks & 'al-fresco' dining. At the end of the paved area is an outbuilding which contains a washing machine, folding garden furniture and storage facilities should you be bringing your paddleboard or storing those muddy boots!
With this cottage also comes a dedicated parking space within the village (approximately 5-10 minutes walk - depending on how quickly one walks up the hill!) thereby avoiding any car parking charges. There is space outside the cottage to unload/load a vehicle prior to moving it to the parking space provided. There is parking on the Quay (2 mins from the cottage) but this is payable, limited in size and cannot be booked in advance.
We are pleased to offer free wifi at the cottage for all that can't be without their devices! The public house in the village also offers this free to its customers.
For those that enjoy walking, walks can start immediately from outside the property; Hall Walk, through National Trust woodland, along the Estuary to Boddinick & the car ferry across to Fowey (as a foot passenger) & then back on the Polruan ferry - a great circular walk. Alternatively, turn left & walk up over the cliffs following the coastal path to Talland Bay & Polperro where the bus service stops on its way back to Polruan.
The local bus service runs from Polruan to the seaside town of Looe. This has become known for the filming of ‘Death in Paradise’ series, although filming does take place in other Cornish towns and villages. Finally, for those who follow the 'Poldark' series, some of the key locations can be easily reached. Charlestown has been used for tall sail boat settings (45 minutes away), the National Trust's Levant Mine (which doubles as the rolling mill where Poldark's copper is processed) is 1.5 hours away and St Agnes famed for Poldark's horseback gallops is 1 hour away towards Cornwall's north coast. In addition, Bodmin Moor that is the setting for Poldark's home is 30 minutes away. Please note timings are approximate and are made by car.
The Eden Project is 40 minutes away and now provides excellent facilities as a concert venue for well known bands and singers (cross via car ferry from Boddinick to Fowey). The Lost Gardens of Heligan and National Trust Lanhydrock are also well worth a visit & Bodmin Jail offers something for all ages.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Please wash any dishes, please do not leave in the dishwasher
Please empty bins & put black waste bags in waste disposal black bag in shed at bottom of garden.
Please return key to lockbox, close & turn dials.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1346557
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Fowey
Located in Fowey, this cottage is on the waterfront. St. Catherine's Castle and Pinetum Park and Pine Lodge Gardens are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Eden Project and Fowey Aquarium. Polperro Model Village and Marsh Villa Gardens are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking/biking trails.
Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
Gribben Head - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
Fowey River Gallery - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
Fowey Estuary - 15 min drive - 3.5 km
Readymoney Cove - 15 min drive - 3.5 km
Getting around
Looe Station - 24 min drive
Newquay (NQY-Newquay Cornwall) - 72 min drive
Restaurants
Havener's - 11 min walk
Safe Harbour Hotel - 14 min walk
The New Inn - 18 min drive
Sunny Spice - 13 min walk
Cornish Bakery - 12 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING ?
As of 12 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING on 18 May 2026 start from AU$182, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING ?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING ?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING ?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Fisherman's Cottage in the heart of Polruan - WITH WIFI & PARKING located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Gribben Head, Fowey Town Quay Landing and Fowey Aquarium. Fowey Tourist Information Centre and Fowey River Gallery are also within 15 minutes.
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Once again, myself and my daughter had a fabulous stay at this magical little gem and will definitely be booking again for next year! The location is superb and the cottage has everything you need for a great week’s stay. Check in is really straight forward and it is a real asset that there is a car parking space especially reserved just up the hill.
lilac cottage is amazing! we had the absolute best time in polruan and already can’t wait to go back. We have a 3 & 5 year old and the location is amazing - plenty of space (even though small, but everything is) for our family and so cozy.
Kate S.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 June 2022
I’m so pleased you and your family had a great time at the cottage and in Polruan. You were fortunate with the weather and Jubilee entertainment. I look forward to welcoming you back.
Verified
8/10 Good
Julie R.
16 Sept 2024
Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Lovely little cottage
Lovely stay at lilac cottage, and great for getting the passenger ferry to Fowey. Little shop good for getting essentials, Bakery marvellous Lugger Inn very nice and friendly, give the Russell Inn pub in village a miss.
Lovely cottage in a beautiful setting by the Polruan harbour. The village is very friendly and it was a bonus getting the ferry across to Fowey.
Susanna R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Lyn J.
8 July 2017
Delightful cottage in wonderful location. Unreservedly recommended!
Well equipped and immaculately kept cottage in perfect location 1 minute from the harbour with passenger ferry to Fowey every 15 mins. Pretty fishing village with shop and two pubs. Owner very helpful and quick to respond to any queries.
Lyn J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your feedback. I'm pleased you enjoyed your stay in the cottage & Polruan village.
This property was shown as 9.8 rating it is more like 6.5 it was clean and very modern in places but rather old and damp in other places. But we had a very good stay and enjoyed out visit. The owner was very helpful.
Roger S.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept 2024
Thank you for your review which I was rather surprised to receive. We spoke several times during your stay and no mention of ‘damp’ was given. the weather was not good during your stay and although one wall is a bit uneven, I have checked and there is no damp.
With regard to the decor, the cottage is an old fisherman’s cottage. We have retained its charm with modern appliances in kitchen and bathroom. I’m sure you will understand, we did not want to ‘strip it out’.
Ratings are subjective and we have had many people use the cottage & return again. I’m sure they would not have done so if they were unhappy with their stay.
This really is a perfect place to enjoy Cornwall.
A great location and a lovely traditional fisherman’s cottage. 30 secs from the shops, the cafe, the pub and the sea. Right next to the ferry to Fowey.
Both the kids had a fantastic time as did the adults. Good comms from the owner. I will re-book without a doubt.
Justin O.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Archival
8/10 Good
Barbara W.
7 May 2015
Lovely cottage in a beautiful village
A beautiful little cottage, nice and clean with amazing views from some of the windows. Polruan is a lovely village and Lilac cottage looks out on all the action. Really close to the harbour to catch the ferry to Fowey and both of the village pubs are just a few steps away. The parking is a big bonus and we grew to love the walk up the hill to get the car. The space in the cottage is used to the maximum potential and it has everything you could need for a weeks stay. We put the fabulous woodburner to good use as the evenings were chilly. We had a great time and really hope to return.
Barbara W.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you for your feedback & comments. Really pleased you enjoyed your stay & would love to welcome you back another time.
Archival
8/10 Good
Bach H.
26 Aug 2015
Cozy, lovely Cottage in the heart of Polruan
We spent 8 wonderful days in the Lilac Cottage. This house is tiny but surrounding with a great charm! We enjoyed the atmosphere of the lively place in front of the house. For day trips to Polperro or Looe it is optimal because the bus is departing close to the house. For more touristic feeling is the town on the opposite of the sea which you can reach easily by ferry. There are many walks on the coast with a great view! The procedure from request to booking was definitely professional many thanks to Jackie! This is Cornwall how described in the Travel Guides.
Bach H.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you for your kind words. The size of the property is typical of a Cornish fisherman's cottage....but we appreciate it can be a bit of a squeeze!
I am so pleased you enjoyed your time in Cornwall and would love to welcome you back some time in the future.
We loved our stay in Polruan. The weather was fabulous and the cottage was just as hoped.
The location in the village centre was perfect for very easy access to the bakers, shop, cafe, pubs, bus stop, coastal path and the ferry to Fowie. Made the most of all of these.
The cottage was very well equipped, tastefully furnished and comfortable. Easy to unload car before parking it up the hill. Then we didn’t need to use the car all week, which was nice.
Hope to return sometime.
Great location, quiet village. Lovely pubs, cafes and local store. Accommodation was comfortable, however lacked basic condiments normally provided in our experience. Whilst our host generously provided towels these are not included. We had hired a car and using Polruan as a base to visit Cornwall, however did not realise how torturous the roads were accessing Polruan and surrounds. This aspect took a toll on our ability to enioy the surrounds. Suggest stay Polruan to hike and explore locally eg. Fowey, not to travel around.
Brian h.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Sept 2024
Thank you for your review.
Perhaps as a traveller from Australia, you didn’t do your research on Cornwall. We have a rocky Cornish coastline and as stated on the website, the cottage is 2 minutes from the coast with one road coming in/out of the village. Roads to and from the village, like most of Cornwall are bendy and not dual carriageways!
Since Covid, as good hygiene practice, we clear and clean all the cottage. I do not think guests would appreciate partly used products.
We have a lovely and relaxing stay. Although the pubs in Polruan is a bit basic but the village shop stocks fresh vegs with plenty of local products. The ferry to Fowey is very convenient and enables us to not use the car whole week. Nearby Polperro and Looe is accessible by the bus but you do need to plan ahead as it is infrequent. We very much enjoyed the view from the second bedroom over the boat yard and seeing the launching of fishing boats after the works. The hills are not easy but this is a typical Cornish setting that can’t be avoided. We will revisit in future.
Our stay in the cottage was very nice. We were there with four adults. It is small, but it has everything you need. The beds are very comfortable. Both pubs and the small grocery store are a few minutes' walk away. Also the ferry to Fowey. You can only drive to the cottage by car to load and unload. The road is very narrow. The path to the car park is relatively steep (16%), but you've already done your morning exercise. If you walk quickly, you'll be at the top in 10 minutes. The access road to Polruan is also very narrow (over 10 km long), but after a few days you get used to it.
All in all, we had a really nice stay there and felt very comfortable. We would come back.
Dagmar B.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 June 2024
Thank you for your kind comments. I am very pleased you enjoyed your stay at the cottage and Polruan village. You are welcome to return at any time!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Andrew B.
2 Nov 2015
Lovely cottage in great location
We're a family of 3 (2 adults and 1 child) and this cottage was the perfect base and size for us to explore this part of Cornwall. It had everything that we needed and was well laid out and equipped. The dishwasher and washing machine/tumble dryer were a real bonus. And the parking space at the top of the hill made sure we had a daily workout! All rooms were of a decent size and there was plenty of storage space, especially in the twin room. The cottage is close to 2 pubs (the Lugger and the Russell) - the food in both was good, though you really need to book at the Lugger to secure a table in advance. We used the village store (open 7.30am to 5pm Mon to Sat and until 12 noon on Sun) for our daily essentials, as well as the bakery next door at Crumpets too. We used the foot ferry to Fowey and the vehicle ferry from Bodinnick to Fowey numerous times, and it was a great feature for the holiday (the vehicle ferry is about 10 mins drive away). All in all, a really lovely cottage - thanks Jackie :-)
Andrew B.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Many thanks for your generous review. I'm so pleased you had great holiday and, it would seem, made the most of what was on offer. It's always rewarding when guests are positive about the area as well as the cottage. Needless to say we would love to welcome you back again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Keith S.
10 June 2015
Charming cottage in a great location to unwind
Out first holiday to this area of the UK and it won't be the last. The cottage had everything that we needed for a relaxing and comfortable holiday - we rented it as a couple, but would also suit a family with 1-2 young children.
On arrival, we could tell that the cottage was well maintained and was exceptionally clean. The kitchen had everything we needed for making breakfast and the odd evening meal. Outside, to the front is a lovely courtyard that gets a good deal of sun throughout the afternoon - ideal with a cold beer / glass of wine.
In Polruan, there's a great tea shop (Crumpets) and two pubs (The Lugger & The Russell Inn). In The Lugger - give the "Whale & Chips" a try if you are very hungry. Over the water in Fowey (ferry £1.80 per adult per trip and runs every 15 mins) there's a choice of bars and restuarants and so we went there a few nights - last ferry back @ 23:00 mind you!!
There's some great walks in the area, I would recommend the "Hall Walk" from Polruan and the South West Coastal path from Polruan to Lantic Bay or further to Polperro if you fancy a longer distance (you can get a bus back if you want).
Keith S.
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Mar 2020
Thank you for taking the time to submit your review - it's very much appreciated. Guests viewpoint of the area and things to do are always welcomed and we hope you'll visit Cornwall again sometime in the near future.
Verified
6/10 Okay
Sarah F.
27 May 2022
Liked: Check-in, listing accuracy
Nice place but in need of improvement
Pretty fisherman’s cottage. Simple but pleasant interior with lovely little outside space which is nice to sit in to watch the world go by.
Unfortunately there has been a problem with damp in the past and the newly painted ceilings were flaking off onto the spare room bed. Not a problem for us until one of us needed to use that room one night and it was impossible to sleep. Electric socket in main bedroom also had a loose connection which I made the owner aware of but had no response regarding this issue.
We ended up leaving three days early and booking into a local B&B because of the problem sleeping with flaking paint. It was a shame because we were generally happy in the cottage until that point.
If you are a light sleeper be aware that the pub close by is noisy late at night and the noise travels up to the cottage.
Sarah F.
Stayed 14 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 June 2022
Thank you for your feedback. I was unaware of the flaky paint until it was raised by the guest whilst also advising it was not an issue. This has now been rectified. Our guests enjoy staying in the heart of the village and occasionally voices can travel from the local pubs for which we have no control. Apologies if your stay did not meet expectations.
We loved it. Quiet no traffic as getting a car up and down is quite difficult. We enjoyed having a cafe pub and shop all in walking distance. The bed is the comfiest I’ve slept in years😍.
Had a problem finding the key safe but if all else fails read the instructions. Polruan is a wonderful village and we had the best time. The cottage was small but perfect as a base to doing all the seaside things. Russell Inn has fab food. The bus stop to polperro and Looe is just yards away. Loved it
We had an absolutely fantastic week at Lilac Cottage. Right in the heart of the village, with pubs/bakery/cafe/store/harbour all only a minutes walk away. The boats across to Fowey were really useful and although we didn’t use the bus, it ran frequently.
The cottage is beautifully presented and all information regarding keys/bins etc sent via mail from the owner, Jackie. The courtyard to the front of the property is perfectly placed if you enjoy a spot of people watching or simply wanting to relax with a good book.
If you are looking for a relaxing break, I’d definitely recommend Lilac Cottage!
Lilac cottage is a very cute 2 bedroom accommodation in polruan. Ideally located to explore the immediate area. One thing to note is the village is VERY hilly. There is a designated parking space but it is at the top of a VERY steep hill which is about a 10min walk (depending on how fit you are!)
There is a very good pub (the Lugger) serving excellent food 1min away. You will need to book if wanting to eat in the evening. Not the cheapest place but the food is excellent. There is also another pub 30sec from your front door which also serves good food. I recommend the sea food platter.
The Baker's 2 mins up the road serve excellent fresh bread, quiches and cakes. All baked on the premises and very fresh.
There is also a small convenience store that sells your basic requirements.
The property itself has everything you will need for your stay. It was very clean and the beds were super comfortable. My daughter and I slept like a log (probably due to all the walking we'd done). There is a ferry that takes you over to Fowey and it runs every 15mins up until 11pm. Not sure about out of season hours. There is also a car ferry but not sure how regularly that runs s as didn't use it.
All in all I had an amazing time here and I would definitely come back and stay at Lilac cottage and if you're looking for a relaxing holiday with beautiful scenery this is definitely a place to consider. Jackie the host is very friendly and answers and queries and questions quickly. I highly recommend.
Wir haben alles vorgefunden, wie beschrieben.. das Cottage ist im kleinen Dorf Polruan mit häufiger Fährverbindung und Blick auf Fowey.. sehr schön..
Maria M.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
About the host
Hosted by Jackie Skillicorn
Hello, my name is Jackie and I am kept busy by working for an independent book shop and assisting my husband in his business. I spend my spare time gardening and walking (more like pottering) with my dog. I like being outdoors and Cornwall gives me the opportunity to do just that.
Why they chose this property
We are a family of four and have enjoyed many holidays in Cornwall. My children when young enjoyed 'crabbing' on jetties and digging in sand...now they are older they want to be more independent and Polruan offers all local facilities plus the Polruan ferry taxi - they love it!
We chose Lilac Cottage because it is in the centre of the village with its thriving community and working boat yard. The busier town of Fowey is just across the estuary and we felt that a property in Polruan gives easy access to both. Polruan has a cafe/tea shop, bakery, a well stocked village shop and two pubs that both serve food. There are two small sandy beaches with gentle sloping sandy beaches. Polruan is very friendly and there is usually something to see and do - even if it’s just people watching!
Lilac Cottage gives a great little base with a coastal feel and we have tried to keep our furnishings & decoration simple to reflect this. We hope that anyone who uses the cottage feels the same way.
PLEASE NOTE THAT DURING BUSY PERIODS OUR CHANGEOVER DAY IS FRIDAY. IF YOU A LOOKING FOR A SHORT BREAK OUTSIDE OF KEY TIMES WE CAN BE A LITTLE MORE FLEXIBLE - PLEASE ENQUIRE.
What makes this property unique
Although we recommend a car it is not essential. I have travelled to Cornwall by train, been picked up by taxi (from Par) and taken to the cottage. Alternatively, take a bus from Par station Fowey and then take the passenger ferry across to Polruan. On landing in Polruan, the cottage is which is 2 minutes from the quay side. Once there, everything is available without going further afield. It's a great cottage to relax and unwind.