Conquering Cornwall: Your Epic Journey to Port Isaac (without Getting Eaten by a Pasty)
Ah, Port Isaac. Land of Doc Martin's grumpy charm, smuggling coves, and enough clotted cream to make your arteries sing. But how does one, a brave adventurer (or just someone who likes a decent cup of tea with a view), get from the bustling streets of London to this idyllic Cornish haven? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will be your compass (and pasty protector) on your way to Port Isaac glory!
Option 1: Speed Demon on the Motorway
Fancy yourself a Lewis Hamilton in disguise? Then buckle up for a road trip! It's roughly a 4-and-a-half-hour zip along the M4 and A30, with plenty of service stations to refuel on sausage rolls and questionable coffee. Just be warned, some of those country lanes are narrower than a pirate's smile, so take those corners with caution (unless you're aiming for a dramatic Doc Martin-esque entrance, which, hey, could be fun for the locals).
Top Tip: Download some epic playlists for the journey. Shanty classics are a must to get you in the Cornish mood. "What Shall We Do With the Drunken Sailor?" at the top of volume while overtaking a lorry? Optional, but highly recommended.
Option 2: Train, Glorious Train
For a more relaxing journey, consider the train! From London Paddington, you can catch a train to Bodmin Parkway in about 4 hours. Now, Bodmin Parkway isn't exactly Port Isaac (although it does have a fascinating jail museum, if you're into that kind of thing). But fear not! From Bodmin Parkway, you can hop on a bus or taxi to take you the remaining leg of your journey.
Bonus points: Pack a picnic for the train journey! Spreading out a checkered blanket and battling over the last scotch egg with your travel companions is a quintessential British experience (and a great way to save some pennies).
Option 3: Soaring Through the Skies (Unless You're Afraid of Heights)
If you're short on time or just fancy a bird's-eye view of the Cornish countryside, then flying might be your best bet. The closest airport to Port Isaac is Newquay, which is about an hour's drive away. Flights from London can take as little as an hour, so you could be sipping a pint in a pub by lunchtime!
Word to the Wise: Flights can be pricey, especially during peak season. Booking in advance and checking budget airlines is your best bet to avoid a serious case of sticker shock.
FAQ: Port Isaac Expedition Edition
How to fuel up for the journey? Pasty. The answer is always pasty.
How to pack for unpredictable Cornish weather? Layers, my friend. Layers. You never know if you'll be basking in sunshine or dodging a rogue seagull attack (they're vicious for those chips).
How to avoid getting lost in the narrow streets of Port Isaac? Just follow the seagulls. They know where all the best fish and chips are hidden.
How to impress the locals? Learn a few basic Cornish phrases. "Kernow bys vy!" (Cornwall forever!) is a good place to start.
How to perfect the art of the Cornish cream tea? Jam first, then cream. It's the only way. (Unless you're a barbarian who likes doing it the other way around. We don't judge... much.)
