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Places to stay in Mousehole
There are very few places that can be found in the United Kingdom that have retained their original character and charm in the way that the tiny fishing village of Mousehole has. Mousehole is one of Cornwall's most picturesque hamlets; a stunning collection of yellow-lichened houses, built from the local finely grained Lamorna granite, huddled together around the inner edge of the harbor - protected from the force of the sea coming across Mounts Bay by two sturdy breakwaters. Mousehole is a very attractive tourist destination. A small and very safe beach is located in a sheltered part of the harbor which is popular with families, particularly those with small children- an ideal location for family days out, with safe bathing, quite literally at your feet. Mousehole developed around its harbor (and of course the fishing fleet that sustained it) appearing in the record books as an important fishing port from as early as 1266, in fact, part of the south quay originates from 1390 - possibly the oldest pier in Cornwall. The fishing industry has declined drastically over the last 100 years, but a few fishing boats maintain the long heritage and tradition of a working harbor, whilst the majority of vessels now lying at anchor are pleasure craft. During the winter months, sturdy wooden beams are used to close the harbor entrance, keeping the force of the sea at bay and protecting the village. In the past, villagers have suffered from the effects of winter storms - one of these events is commemorated annually shortly before Christmas on "Tom Bawcock's Eve" where a monstrous fish pie is baked and consumed by the patrons of the Inn on the quayside. This event, which becomes a major village party, attracts visitors from both the surrounding district and from all over the world.
