A historic seaport in Cornwall, Penzance retains its old-world charm within a quaint harbour. With sweeping views of Mount’s Bay, the Victorian seafront promenade bustles with activity, while performing arts venues, gardens and museums offer fascinating culture.

Things to Do

Walk along the seafront promenade, then stroll down Chapel Street to view heritage architecture, including preserved Georgian structures. Stop to admire ornate lotus columns and Egyptian symbolism at the Egyptian House.

Minack Theatre dominates the cultural scene in Penzance with its impressive open-air performance venue built into the cliffs above the sea. Get tickets for opera, drama, musicals, storytelling and live music concerts. Pop into Penlee House Gallery & Museum to admire paintings by local artists, then head over to Parade Street to catch a comedy act or film at Acorn Arts Centre.

Across the street from Acorn, you can stop for tea, coffee and homemade cakes at the Honey Pot, then dig into the treasure-filled Steckfensters for vintage clothing, retro trinkets and vinyl records. In the evening, snag a seat at Shore, a seafood bistro specialising in shellfish from Newlyn day boats.

Don’t miss seeing Tremenheere Sculpture Garden, filled with art installations, such as a sky-view chamber by James Turrell and the Camera Obscura panorama by Billy Wynter. Feel like connecting with nature? At Tanglewood Wild Garden you can wander through a wildlife haven with picturesque ponds and bird species, such as herons, kingfishers and mallards.

Getting around

Transportation options in Penzance include buses, taxis, bike hires and bike shares. You can rent a car or van at several places in the city or at Lands End Airport, about 11 kilometres away.