Land's End
PenwithIt's the end of the world as we know it...
Land's End is mainland Britain’s most south-westerly point and one of the country’s most famous landmarks. From the 200 foot high granite cliffs that rise out of the Atlantic Ocean you can gaze across to the Longships Lighthouse, and on a good day, the Isles of Scilly.
Welcome to Land's End
On the wild western tip of Cornwall, Land’s End is Britain’s most south-westerly point and one of its most iconic landmarks. This impressive area has been admired for centuries, with the earliest records of tourism dating back to the 1600s.
Part of the West Penwith National Landscape, this rugged section of coastline is defined by twenty-metre-high granite cliffs, sculpted by relentless Atlantic winds into awe-inspiring shapes. These cliffs are a haven for seabirds, including Cornwall’s national bird, the Cornish chough.
Land’s End is famous for the iconic signpost marking the 874-mile distance to John O’ Groats. However, there’s much more to see. From the wind-swept headlands, you can often spot seals resting in the sheltered coves below, admire Longships Lighthouse, and on clear days, even catch glimpses of the Isles of Scilly on the horizon.
It’s a place to be inspired by nature and to learn about local legends, which date back to prehistoric times. Whether you come for the views, the wildlife, or the sense of adventure, Land’s End is a place where Cornwall’s natural beauty and ancient history meet in spectacular fashion.
Did you know?
Archaeological findings indicate that Land’s End has been inhabited since as far back as 10,000 BC. The area also has ancient ties to tin mining, with references from the Ancient Greeks, who called it ‘Belerion’, meaning ‘the shining land’ in recognition of its mineral wealth and gleaming coastal cliffs.
Things to do
Land’s End offers something for everyone, whether you're entertaining the family, exploring local legends, or embarking on a coastal adventure.
The Land’s End Landmark is a popular family attraction, featuring interactive exhibits, mini golf, the iconic signpost, and access to Greeb Farm – a beautifully restored 200-year-old Cornish farmstead. Here, you can visit traditional craft workshops, chat with local artisans, and pick up a unique souvenir.
For stunning coastal views, follow the South West Coast Path. The northbound trail leads to Sennen, a picturesque village with a sandy beach perfect for surfing. Head south towards Nanjizal Beach, a secluded cove and Site of Special Scientific Interest, where you can swim in its sandy sea pool at low tide.
Further afield
Just four miles from Land’s End, the pristine white sands of Porthcurno beckon for a perfect beach day. Afterwards, watch a performance at the world-famous Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre perched on dramatic cliffs. Nearby, visit the PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications to discover the area's pivotal role in modern communications.
A few miles north of Land’s End is Cape Cornwall, where the Atlantic meets the Irish Sea – a stunning spot for sunsets, storm-watching, and incredible photography.
In the nearby town of St Just, The Jackson Foundation Gallery, founded by renowned artist Kurt Jackson, offers a carbon-negative art space celebrating art’s connection to nature.
For history buffs, explore the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, where old engine houses sit against breathtaking ocean views. Visit National Trust Botallack, famous for its role in TV's Poldark, or head to Geevor Tin Mine for interactive exhibits, underground tunnels, and a museum.
Or, visit one of the area's many fascinating neolithic sites, including Carn Euny Ancient Village, The Merry Maidens Stone Circle or Boscawen-Un Stone Circle.
If you’re seeking a true escape, consider flying from Land’s End to the Isles of Scilly for a peaceful retreat in this nature-filled archipelago just off the Cornish coast.
Getting around
Land’s End can be reached via bus services from larger local towns, including Penzance which is connected to the main railway line for direct routes to London. Bus schedules can be found via Transport for Cornwall and train timetables can be found via Great Western Railway. For those driving, Land’s End is at the end of the A30 road, which connects to the M5.
Things to do at Land's End
Geevor Tin Mine
Geevor Tin Mine is set in the wide open spaces of the Land's End peninsula on the dramatic Atlantic coast.
Land's End, St Just in PenwithRead morePlan your trip
Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Land's End
From the M5 at Exeter, follow the A30 all the way down through Cornwall to Penzance. From here you need to continue on the A30 following the signs to Land's End. Parking can be booked online in advance. Local pass holders can park for free.
National Express serves Cornwall from destinations throughout the UK. Connecting services to Cornwall are available from Bristol, Birmingham and London. The coach drop off point isat Penzance, where local bus connections can be picked up. One of the UK’s most spectacular open top bus rides, showcasing rugged coastlines, mining heritage sites, harbour towns and Land’s End itself.
Great Western Railways operate high speed services from London Paddington, South Wales and the Cotswolds to Cornwall, including sleeper services from London Paddington. Cross Country Trains (Arriva Trains) operate services into Cornwall from the Midlands, the North and Scotland. The nearest train station to Land's End is Penzance, where local connections can be picked up. One of the UK’s most spectacular open top bus rides, showcasing rugged coastlines, mining heritage sites, harbour towns and Land’s End itself.
Land's End is the legendary Cornish destination that has inspired people since ancient Greek times when it was referred to as 'Belerion' – Place of the Sun. It's one of Britain's best loved landmarks, famous for its unique location and beautiful scenery and the finishing/starting point of many trips from/to John O Groats.
Lizard Point is the most southerly point of mainland Britain, however Land's End is the furthest point from John O Groats in distance, hence it tends to be the place most journeyed to.
Neither is Land's End the most westerly point on mainland Britain, that honour falls to Ardnamurchan Point in the Scotish highlands.
For marketing purposes Visit Cornwall class everything down the north coast from St Agnes westward as being in West Cornwall, and on the south coast from Porthleven. The main destinations are St Ives and Penzance but it also includes areas like Mount's Bay, Sennen Cove and Land's End.
It doesn't cost anything to get into Land's End, you can just walk into the main entrance or pass through on the South West Coast Path. However, you will need to pay to park and if you wish to visit any of the attractions in the complex. The prices can all be found on the Land's End website.
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