Penzance
Penn sansThe Holy headland
Penzance is perfectly positioned as a gateway to some of Cornwall’s most famous tourist destinations, including the Isles of Scilly. It’s only a few miles from places such as St Ives, Land’s End, and of course St Michael’s Mount.
In the rugged far west of Cornwall, Penzance is a lively market town with a quirky, artist-inspired charm. It also serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring some of Cornwall’s most iconic coastal villages and landmarks.
The town's market tradition can be traced back to the fourteenth century. It was also once an important fishing port and central to the tin trade. Today, Penzance is known for its coastal views, artistic influence and quirky architecture, including an art deco swimming pool, pirate-inspired pub and an Egyptian house.
Overlooking the sweeping Mount’s Bay, the majestic St Michael’s Mount stands sentinel, offering a dramatic backdrop to the town. Penzance is also within easy reach of some of Cornwall's most stunning beaches and highest cliffs, perfect for scenic walks and seaside relaxation.
One of Penzance’s signature events is the Golowan Festival, a vibrant summer celebration of Cornish arts, performances, and culture. However, Penzance is a fantastic destination year-round, thanks to a variety of activities to enjoy in every season.
Did you know?
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the nearby fishing villages of Newlyn, Mousehole, and Lamorna became a hub for artists now known as the Newlyn School, who painted outdoor scenes, or “en plein air.” Today, their works are highly sought after. At Penlee House Gallery & Museum in Penzance, you can admire pieces by notable Newlyn artists like Stanhope Forbes, Walter Langley, and Norman Garstin.
Things to do
Whether you're exploring its coastal paths in spring, basking in the golden autumn light, or soaking up the cosy atmosphere in winter, Penzance offers something special in every season.
Penzance Promenade is a hub of activity, where walkers, joggers, and cyclists enjoy breathtaking views over St Michael's Mount and the bay. Stretching over two miles, the promenade leads to the harbour, the last safe haven before the vast Atlantic.
Nestled between the harbour and promenade is Jubilee Pool, the UK’s largest saltwater lido. With its iconic 1930s art deco design, it features multiple pools, including one heated to a luxurious 35°C using geothermal technology – a perfect spot to relax after a seaside walk.
For a taste of Penzance's eccentric charm, head to Chapel Street, a blend of quirky architecture, independent boutiques, and inviting cafés. Here, you'll find the Admiral Benbow, a pirate-themed pub rich in history, and the famous Egyptian House with its striking façade. More shopping awaits on Market Jew Street and Causewayhead, offering everything from antiques to local crafts.
Art lovers are spoilt for choice, with Penlee House Gallery & Museum showcasing Victorian and Newlyn School artists, whilst Cornwall Contemporary and The Exchange feature cutting-edge exhibitions. Numerous smaller galleries around town offer a chance to discover works by local artists.
For a tranquil escape, visit Morrab Gardens, where subtropical plants such as agapanthus, camellias, and banana palms thrive, thanks to Penzance's famously mild climate. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of the town, perfect for unwinding amidst lush greenery.
Did you know?
Just outside of Penzance lies Chysauster Ancient Village, one of the UK's best-preserved prehistoric settlements. Dating back nearly 2,000 years, this remarkable site features unique stone-walled homes called 'courtyard houses', a type of dwelling found only in the Land's End peninsula and the Isles of Scilly.
Further afield
Penzance is ideally located for exploring some of Cornwall’s most iconic destinations. Just a short drive away are the picturesque coastal gems of St Ives, Mousehole, and Sennen. Each offers stunning beaches perfect for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing with your toes in the sand.
For a unique adventure, hop aboard the Scillonian ferry for a day trip, or even better, a longer stay on the Isles of Scilly. The ferry departs from Penzance Harbour, providing a scenic oceanic journey to these remote and beautiful islands.
Nearby is Marazion, home to the legendary St Michael’s Mount. Tie it in with a 2.7 mile coastal walk (each way) from Penzance Promenade to experience some of the best of the South West Coast Path.
A short ten-minute drive from Penzance is the Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, where art meets nature in a stunning landscape setting. Slightly further afield, don’t miss the world-famous Minack Theatre, a breathtaking open-air venue carved into the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic.
Getting around
Penzance is the final stop on the Great Western Railway Line, offering direct access from London Paddington in around five hours. For a more relaxed journey, you can opt for the Night Riviera Sleeper, which takes approximately eight hours, allowing you to travel overnight and wake up in Cornwall.
By car, reaching Penzance is straightforward – simply follow the M5 and then the A30 all the way to the town.
Local buses provide convenient connections to nearby towns and villages. For more details on routes and schedules, visit Transport for Cornwall.
Accommodation
Tredinney Farm, Self Catering
Delightful cottages, ideal for sandy beaches, walks on our farm nature trail, spectacular sunsets and magical night skies.
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Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Penzance
From the M5 at Exeter, follow the A30 all the way down through Cornwall to Penzance. The largest car park can be found by driving past the railway station and following to road around to the left and then out towards the seafront. The carpark is on your left.
Other smaller carparks can be found in and around the town.
All trains through Cornwall terminate at Penzance, where the bus station is right beside the train station.
National Express also run to Penzance.
Penzance is the hub for bus services to and from many local towns and villages.
Penzance is the main departure point for the Isles of Scilly, both by boat and helicopter.
Planes can also be used and fly from Land's End Airport which is less than 10 miles away.
FAQ's
View allFor 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.
No, not unless you are a National Trust member. Also, you now have to book in advance, even to get on the island. (November 2022)
To the east of Penzance the sandy beaches of Mount's Bay stretch along the coast to St Michael's Mount. It's a shallow bay, fine for swimming but also a favourite with windsurfers.
Infront of Penzance promenade there is a sand and shingle beach, often covered at high tide. People swim off of the Battery Rocks, whilst the Jubilee Pool now offers the luxury of geothermally heated bathing all year round.
Yes, it's the name of the local rugby club!, the Cornish Pirates, who play at the Mennaye Field in the town.
The Pirates of Penzance was a comic opera written by Gilbert and Sullivan in the 1890's, and was entirely ficticious, as far as we know!
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