Doc Martin and The Legend of King Arthur Tour

Exploring Cornwall through the lens of its legends and TV fame has never been easier or more enjoyable than with the Doc Martin and The Legend of King Arthur Tour. This private, full-day excursion offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and famous locations from film and television, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. The small-group format, with personalized attention, ensures a relaxed and authentic experience.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it combines comprehensive sightseeing with the flexibility to customize your itinerary — a real boon for those wanting to focus on what interests them most. A potential drawback? The price may seem high for some, but when you factor in private transportation and the extensive list of stops, the value becomes clearer.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love cultural heritage, scenic coastal views, and iconic film locations. It’s perfect for those who prefer not to navigate Cornwall on their own, enjoy storytelling from knowledgeable guides, and want an all-in-one experience covering key sites without the stress of planning.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience that saves you planning time and stress
• Stunning coastal scenery and filming locations like Port Isaac and Fristal Beach
• Knowledgeable guides enhance storytelling and local insights
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi and air conditioning
• Good value for a full-day tour with many highlights included
• Limited walking difficulties might be involved, notably in Port Isaac

Introduction to the Tour

For those interested in Cornwall’s fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural stories, this tour aims to deliver. It’s designed as a private, relaxed alternative to self-driving or joining larger groups, allowing you to sit back, soak in the views, and let someone else handle the logistics. The focus on filming locations from Doc Martin and sites related to King Arthur makes it particularly appealing for TV fans and history buffs alike.

What makes this experience stand out is the personalized approach — you can tailor your sightseeing schedule, which means you get to spend more time at the places that excite you most, whether it’s the dramatic cliffs of Bedruthan Steps or the charming streets of Port Isaac. Plus, with WiFi on board and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, you can stay connected and relaxed throughout the 8-hour journey.

A noticeable consideration for some might be the price, at over $1,000 for a group of four, but when you compare this to the cost of multiple individual entries, private transportation, and guided insights, the value becomes more understandable. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides truly elevate the experience, with one reviewer mentioning the guide was in the first episode of Doc Martin, adding a fun insider touch.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Fistral Beach

Your tour kicks off at Fistral Beach, renowned for being a premier surfing spot in North Cornwall. Here, you’ll see world-class surfers in action, and if you’re lucky, you might catch some off-water scenes or just enjoy the stunning coastline. The quick stop also features an original Huers Hut, which historically helped spot incoming shoals of pilchards, giving a glimpse into Cornwall’s fishing heritage. This stop is brief but offers excellent photo opportunities and a taste of Cornwall’s vibrant surf culture.

Stop 2: Wheal Coates Tin Mine

Next up is Wheal Coates, an abandoned tin mine perched dramatically on the coast. The ruins are atmospheric, especially surrounded by heather and gorse, creating a rugged, windswept scene perfect for photography. The views over the Atlantic are spectacular, and the pause here provides insight into Cornwall’s once-thriving mining industry. Visitors note it’s a place that feels like stepping into a wild historical landscape — a favorite for many with an interest in industrial history or dramatic scenery.

Stop 3: Watergate Bay

A quick visit to Watergate Bay offers a chance to see one of Cornwall’s best surfing spots, with expansive sands and powerful waves. It’s an ideal photo stop or a quick walk along the beach if you wish. The short duration means you can enjoy the view without feeling rushed, and it’s a great way to experience Cornwall’s coastal energy.

Stop 4: St. Mawgan Church

Situated in a picturesque village, St. Mawgan Church is a charming stop that showcases Cornwall’s architectural beauty. The village itself boasts a cricket ground, pub, and a 13th-century church, giving a cozy, authentic feel of rural Cornwall. It’s an ideal spot to stretch your legs and appreciate Cornwall’s peaceful rural life.

Stop 5: Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps

One of the tour’s highlights, this location is famous for its massive rock stacks jutting from the shoreline and breathtaking views. It’s also where the opening scenes of the TV series Poldark were filmed, adding a layer of film history to the natural spectacle. The site has a charming café for a quick snack or coffee, perfect for recharging before moving on to more sites.

Stop 6: Prideaux Place

This Elizabethan manor, built in 1592, is still owned by the same family, which adds a sense of continuity and history. You can walk around the deer park or take a guided tour of the house, offering insights into Cornwall’s aristocratic past. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot that combines history and natural beauty.

Stop 7: Padstow Harbour

A lively working fishing port, Padstow is also famous for chef Rick Stein’s restaurants. It’s a popular spot for visitors to see the bustling harbor, enjoy fresh seafood, and perhaps spot a celebrity or two. The brief stop offers a taste of Cornwall’s culinary scene and maritime heritage.

Stop 8: Port Isaac (Portwenn)

This is where the magic of Doc Martin comes alive. Port Isaac’s narrow, winding streets are instantly recognizable from the show, and you’ll have the chance to stroll among the famous filming locations. A self-guided walking tour allows you to explore the village at your pace, with the possibility of catching filming if you’re lucky. Many visitors find Port Isaac charming and photogenic, and a highlight for fans of the series.

Stop 9: Tintagel Castle

The legendary home of King Arthur, Tintagel offers stunning clifftop views and a fascinating mix of myth and history. The recent bridge reconstruction enhances the breathtaking vistas, and although entry requires advance booking, the external views from the walk down to the bridge are spectacular. The site is a must-see for those intrigued by Cornwall’s legendary past.

Stop 10: Boscastle Harbour

This quaint, historic fishing village boasts attractive cottages and a sheltered harbor. Known for its resilience after the 2004 flood, Boscastle offers a quiet, picturesque stop to enjoy a stroll and take in the charming scenery.

Stop 11: St Nonna’s Church and Altarnun

Famous for being Doc Martin’s wedding location, St Nonna’s Church adds a personal touch to the tour. Nearby, the historic lodging house where John Wesley preached gives a sense of Cornwall’s spiritual history. These stops deepen your understanding of Cornwall’s cultural fabric.

Stop 12: Colliford Lake

Finally, a quick visit to Colliford Lake, a man-made reservoir on Bodmin Moor with interesting personal significance for the reviewer, but also a peaceful spot for a quick photo or quick walk to round out the day.

Practical Aspects and Value

The tour’s price point of around $1,026 for a group of four reflects its private nature, extensive itinerary, and included amenities like WiFi and air-conditioned transport. While this might seem steep, the convenience of a guided, all-inclusive day in Cornwall cannot be overstated. For travelers who want to maximize their time, avoid driving, and learn from a knowledgeable guide, the value is evident.

The duration of approximately 8 hours means you’re covering a lot of ground without feeling rushed. Timing is well-paced, with stops ranging from quick photo ops to more in-depth visits like Prideaux Place and Tintagel Castle (though the latter requires booking in advance). The private transportation ensures comfort, especially if the weather turns or you prefer not to deal with parking or navigation.

The reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendliness, with one mentioning that their guide was in the first episode of Doc Martin, adding an insider’s touch. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with accessibility issues might find Port Isaac’s steep hills challenging, as one reviewer noted.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent blend of Cornwall’s natural charm, historic sites, and pop culture icons. Its private, flexible approach makes it ideal for those wanting a tailored experience without the hassle of self-driving or joining larger groups. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, offering diverse landscapes and stories, and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth that you simply can’t get on your own.

If you’re a fan of Doc Martin, intrigued by King Arthur, or just eager to see Cornwall’s coast and countryside in comfort, this tour is a compelling choice. The price reflects the personalized service, extensive sightseeing, and quality transport, making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking involved at locations like Port Isaac and Tintagel Castle. Young children should be prepared for some uneven surfaces and steep hills.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility, allowing you to focus more on sites that interest you most, within the framework of the scheduled stops.

What’s included in the price?
Private transport, WiFi on board, and the guided tour are included. Admission to certain sites like Bedruthan Steps, Prideaux Place, and Tintagel Castle are not included and may require separate tickets.

How long is the drive between stops?
The itinerary is designed to keep travel times reasonable, but expect some scenic drives between locations, contributing to the overall 8-hour duration.

Is parking difficult at any of the stops?
Some locations, like Port Isaac, can be challenging due to limited parking and steep walks. The tour’s transportation helps avoid some of these issues.

Are there rest stops for bathroom breaks?
Yes, there are scheduled stops and opportunities for quick breaks, especially at cafes or scenic viewpoints.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not refunded.

How do I meet the guide?
The tour starts at 9:30 am, with pickup offered from your accommodation or a designated meeting point.

Is there WiFi on the vehicle?
Yes, WiFi is available on board, allowing you to share photos or stay connected during the day.

To sum it up, the Doc Martin and The Legend of King Arthur Tour is a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated experience that will appeal to those who want a hassle-free way to explore Cornwall’s highlights. With its blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and pop culture landmarks, it offers great value for anyone looking to make the most of their day in this stunning part of England. Whether you’re a TV fan, history enthusiast, or simply a lover of scenic coastlines, this tour provides a memorable, comfortable, and engaging way to see Cornwall.