Port Isaac is Glamorous, with a capital G and there's no wonder why the glamour world has been lining up in this spectacular Cornish town of Port Isaac. Located on the Atlantic coast of North Cornwall, Port Isaac's euphoric ambiance and stunning beauty has inspired the creative world to make it their preferred filming location. Films like the Shell Seekers featuring Vanessa Redgrave, the 2000 comedy thriller Saving Grace and Swept from the Sea portrayed the mind-blowing scenic beauty of North Cornwall's Port Isaac. Smash hit television series' like Poldark and Doc Martin, starring Martin Clunes, are two among many television soaps that have been filmed here.
The name Port Isaac comes from Porth Izzick, meaning the 'corn port'. With the advent of railways, Port Isaac gradually started losing its significance as a port. Previously, starting from Middle Ages through till the 19th century, Port Isaac had been very busy and in the thick of things. The passage was used as a corridor to export and import a wide range of items like coal, timber, pottery and Delabole slate. Nowadays, the Cornish village Port Isaac, has transformed itself into a scenic fishing port.
Port Isaac is renowned for its beauty and aesthetic sense. The traditional granite houses and the white cottages that line the zigzag streets of Port Isaac, make it even more appealing. Port Isaac has been a fishing village since the early 14th century. Today, its fishing and water-world activities, attract tourists from all over the world.
Port Isaac and Port Gaverne, designated as an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a Heritage Coast Area', are famous for its fabulous scenic trips and sandy strips. The striking smart locations of these two port villages, have been the favourite location spots for most films filmed here. The golden beaches of Port Gaverne are probably the best beaches in North Cornwall.
A cool splash of Atlantic freshness, awaits the visitor at the awe-inspiring safe swimming rock pools in Port Gaverne. The rock pools of Port Gaverne, have been declared as the safest rock pools in North Cornwall. This blue Atlantic coast of North Cornwall, provokes us to imagine, experience and express, but most of the time it knocks us out with its vastness.
There is hardly any place in Cornwall without a historical background. A busy handling port in the 19th century, Port Gaverne has been the touch point for exports and imports. The port handled mining resources like slate, coal, limestone and has played a prime part in exporting slate from the nearby Delabole Slate Quarries. Many old buildings in this area has been converted into hotels and inns, but the 17th century inn, the oldest in Port Gaverne, is the talk of the town.
Another unreal location, a few miles west of Port Isaac, is Port Quin. Its ravishing beauty is unbelievable! Largely owned by the National Trust, the most precious jewel in the crown of Port Quin is the 1830 Doyden Castle. Used for the filming of the TV series Poldark, the ancient castle is now a luxury hotel. There is also an exciting walking route from Port Isaac to Port Quin via Roscarrock Hill and Pine Haven, along the Atlantic coast. Port Quin is refreshing like an ice tea on a scorching hot day.
An interesting place to visit in Port Isaac, is the Long Cross Victorian Gardens. The garden, spanning an area of two acres, is the only public garden in North Cornwall. The original Victorian arrangement of the garden features a small lake, children's play area, a maze, dovecote and a pet corner, has been left pretty much intact. The garden is relaxing and refreshing, it is the perfect choice for a day out.
With the blue sea rocking back and forth the white topped rugged cliffs, this part of North Cornwall, starring Port Isaac along with Port Gaverne and Port Quin, is superbly awesome. It makes you truly feel alive.