Restgarth Care Home is located in the historic coastal village of Polperro, a place rich in heritage and character that adds a unique sense of identity to daily life at our home.

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First recorded in 1303, Polperro’s name is believed to mean “the harbour of the Pyll.” The village was historically divided between two manors, Raphael and Killigarth, and grew over time into a thriving fishing community. For generations, the local economy centred around the pilchard industry, with families working closely together and building a strong sense of community that still exists today.

Polperro is perhaps most famously known for its role during the smuggling era of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Due to heavy taxation during wars with France and America, the village became a well-known hub for smuggling activity, with hidden tunnels and secret cellars woven into its history. Notable local figure Zephaniah Job, often referred to as the “Smugglers’ Banker,” helped manage the financial side of the trade, while characters like Willy Wilcox remain part of local folklore.

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As smuggling declined in the 19th century, Polperro gradually transformed into a destination for artists and visitors, drawn by its picturesque harbour and timeless charm. Today, its rich past is preserved and celebrated at the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing, where 18th- and 19th-century artefacts bring the village’s story to life.

Being part of such a historically significant and beautiful location enhances the experience of living at Restgarth, offering residents and their families a setting that is both peaceful and deeply connected to Cornwall’s coastal heritage.