Looe Walking Tours - Smugglers and Skullduggery
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1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Tales of smugglers haunts, press gangs & skulduggery along the quaysides….as you join Mark on the tour that explores the exploits of old amongst the medieval drinking houses.
The tour commences outside of the 15th century Old Guildhall, on Higher Market Street in East Looe.
From the seafront, you’ll learn tales of the wreckers who lured boats onto the rocks, shipwrecks around Looe’s coastlines…. to royal navy pressgangs rounding up recruits, it is the Looe you never knew!
From ghostly tales of the white hare of West Looe Hill & hauntings at the Jolly Sailor - to trapped souls in the cells of the Old Guildhall… the tour will discover tales of the Town’s darker days.
During the tour, you hear about Amran & Jochabed, who lived on Looe Island & used it as a stopping point for their contraband… as well as ‘Battling Billy’ and his kegs of illicit liquor hidden inside coffins.
Available options
Looe Walking Tours - Smugglers and Skullduggery
What's included
Your fun and entertaining Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Exploring the streets and haunts of East and West Looe, you will discover tales of the characters who lived here, the history of the smuggling trade and the families who controlled the shores.
We spend 90 minutes exploring and discovering the hidden gems and hideouts of our beautiful harbour town. Hear tales of Ghosts, Smugglers, and some Skullduggery!
Some of the attractions are listed below, but many are hidden away that only we will discover!!
2
Here we set the scene and talk about how smuggling came about and what influenced the people of Looe to start smuggling.
We will discover some tales of court cases that took place here at the Guildhall, and of the ghost who resides within!
3
The magnificent views over the bay, and we will talk about how the bay was used but the smugglers, who the families were and of the shipwrecks that littler the bay.
I will show you how the wreckers brought ships ashore to loot their goods and how they hid them until they could be safely brought ashore!
4
From the end of Banjo Pier, hear how the Hooper family controlled the smuggling operations in the bay, how Silas Finn betrayed his friend, and the story of ‘The Lottery’ famous smuggling ship caught offshore
5
We will talk about the original Looe Bridge(s) the tales of the Pirate attacks on Looe, and why the current bridge has its 9 arches!
6
We will spend time around the Jolly Sailor, talking of the press gangs, the smugglers, the landlords of the 3 pubs and the grisly tales of Battling Billy and Vine Cottage !
7
St Nicholas Church has a fascinating history and surprising tales of smuggling, some skullduggery and some interesting stories about the jail!
What's not included
You will have opportunity after the tour to explore the many eateries and offerings in the Town
Reviews breakdown
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The tour is on flat, paved surfaces with a gentle slope over the bridge. We go at a slow pace and make plenty of stops
Meeting point
We meet at the Canon, outside the Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol in higher market street, East Looe.
My name is Mark and I will be at the meeting point 10 minutes before the start time.
I wear a branded Polo shirt and carry a branded A3 case with Looe Walking Tours Logo on.
About Cornwall
Cornwall is a stunning coastal county in South West England, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, and rich Celtic heritage. With its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and unique cultural identity, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm.
Top Attractions
The Eden Project
A stunning ecological park featuring giant geodesic domes housing a variety of plant species from around the world.
Nature
3-4 hours
£27-£33 (adult ticket)
St. Michael's Mount
A historic island castle and village with a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
Historical
2-3 hours
£14.50 (adult ticket, castle and gardens)
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
A beautifully restored Victorian garden with a fascinating history and a variety of plant species.
Nature
3-4 hours
£15.50 (adult ticket)
Land's End
The southwesternmost point of mainland England, offering stunning coastal views and a variety of attractions.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (parking and attractions may have separate fees)
Tintagel Castle
A medieval castle associated with the legends of King Arthur, located on the dramatic Cornish coastline.
Historical
1-2 hours
£10.50 (adult ticket)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cornish Pasty
A traditional savory pastry filled with beef, potatoes, swede, and onions.
Lunch
Contains gluten and dairy. Vegetarian versions available.
Cream Tea
A light snack consisting of scones, clotted cream, and jam.
Snack
Contains gluten and dairy. Vegan options may be available.
Stargazy Pie
A traditional Cornish pie made with pilchards or sardines, with the fish heads poking through the pastry.
Dinner
Contains gluten and fish. Not suitable for vegetarians.
Cornish Ice Cream
Creamy ice cream made with local Cornish clotted cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy. Vegan options may be available.
Popular Activities
Surfing
Coasteering
Hiking
Kayaking
Sailing
Beachcombing
Yoga retreats
Spas
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and various festivals. The beaches are at their best, and all attractions are fully open.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Cornish (a revival language)
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Pound Sterling (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Cornwall is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Newquay Cornwall Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from Newquay
- Exeter International Airport • 70 miles (113 km) from Exeter
By train
Truro Station, Penzance Station
By bus
Truro Bus Station, Penzance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. Services are frequent in towns but can be limited in rural areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Penzance
St. Ives
Falmouth
Truro
Newquay
Day trips
The Lizard Peninsula
30 miles (48 km) from Truro • Full day
The Lizard Peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery, beautiful beaches, and unique geological features.
Fowey
20 miles (32 km) from Truro • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town with a rich maritime history, picturesque streets, and beautiful estuary views.
Bodmin Moor
20 miles (32 km) from Truro • Full day
A vast, open moorland offering dramatic landscapes, ancient ruins, and a rich history.
Festivals
Falmouth Oyster Festival • Late September to early October
St. Ives September Festival • Mid-September
Porthcurno Telecommunications Museum Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Try local dishes like pasties, cream teas, and seafood
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots for a more authentic experience
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing for changing weather
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season
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