Mousehole

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About Mousehole

Mousehole (pronounced 'Mowzel') is a small granite fishing village on Cornwall's south coast, its harbour sheltered by a protective breakwater and its narrow lanes lined with old cottages. It is famous throughout Cornwall for its Christmas lights, which draw visitors from across the county each December.

The story of Mousehole

Mousehole was sacked in July 1595 by a Spanish raiding force of four galleys under Carlos de Amésquita, which landed soldiers and burned the village and neighbouring Paul, leaving only the local pub standing; the event is recorded in both local tradition and Spanish records. Dolly Pentreath, who died in 1777 and is widely regarded as the last person to speak Cornish as her sole language, lived in Mousehole and is buried in the churchyard at Paul. The village's harbour was rebuilt in the 19th century around an older medieval landing place, and its pilchard curing cellars fell silent as the shoals declined. Mousehole's Christmas lights were started in 1963 and have grown into one of Cornwall's best-loved festive displays.

Visiting with care

Park above the village and walk down to the harbour, where 'The Mousehole Cat' story is sold in local shops. Time a December visit for the Christmas lights, or come in summer for swimming from the small harbour beach and the coastal walk to Lamorna Cove.

Interesting facts

• The Spanish raid on Mousehole in July 1595 was led by Carlos de Amésquita and burned much of the village.
• Dolly Pentreath of Mousehole, who died in 1777, is regarded as the last person to speak only Cornish.
• The village's Christmas lights were begun in 1963 and are among Cornwall's best-loved displays.
• 'The Mousehole Cat', the children's book by Antonia Barber, is based on the village and its traditions.