Port Isaac Circular Walk

While the Port Isaac Circular Walk is only a short adventure, there are a few inclines and areas along the coast with rougher terrain. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes when setting out on this trail. Additionally, the village’s popularity as a tourist attraction means that parking at the trailhead can often be limited. Make sure to arrive early to secure a space and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet along the trail.

Although it is a popular area for visitors, it really is for good reason, as Port Isaac is a truly beautiful village along the Cornish Coast. In addition to taking in the amazing views of the sea, you will also have the chance to explore the lovely village that is used as the filming location for the popular series Doc Martin. Whether that is the sole reason for your excursion or you are looking to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, you certainly can’t go wrong spending the day on the Port Isaac Circular Walk.

Setting out from the St Endellion car park, you will make your way to the southeast and descend the hillside into the small hamlet of Port Gaverne, before climbing back up the lightly forested hillside to the south on the way to Trewetha. From here, you will head west across several small fields, once again working your way downhill into a lightly forested gully near the Port Isaac Mill.

Following the trail as it climbs uphill to the northwest, you will cross over Church Hill Road and traverse the open fields before you in order to make your way towards the coast. Here, you will be able to take in some lovely views of a secluded cove, before working your way around the headland for an amazing sightline across the Cornish Sea.

As the trail turns south, you will be walking above Port Isaac and have an amazing view overlooking the village and the port below. After meeting up with Roscarrock Hill, you will follow it east, making your way past Doc Martin’s house and working your way through the picturesque village. Here, you will find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore, making you feel as though you are walking through the fictional village of Portwenn. Keeping left along the water’s edge, you will pass by the Portwenn Viewpoint, before following the trail uphill on the return to the car park where you started the Port Isaac Circular Walk

Trail Highlights

Port Isaac

Located in North Cornwall along the coast, Port Isaac is a charming fishing village that is famously known as the filming location of the TV series Doc Martin, where it is instantly recognizable as the fictional village of Portwenn. Historically, this small village served as a port for trading goods from inland regions, namely corn. As the railway grew in importance, Port Isaac’s role as a trade port declined and the village began to rely mostly on fishing; however, this also saw a downturn and the main industry of the area is now tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Doc Martin Filmed?

The village of Port Isaac in North Cornwall is used as the filming location for the village of Portwenn in the television series Doc Martin.

What is Port Isaac best known for?

In addition to its use as a filming location for the popular TV series Doc Martin, Port Isaac is also a fishing village that is well known for its narrow streets.Squeeze Belly Alley, which can be found in the village, is one of the most narrow throughways in the United Kingdom.