Helston Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and places to stay in Helston with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Helston

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Cornwall countryside, Helston is a charming market town that’s teeming with history and culture. Known for its lively floral dance in May and its rich mining heritage, Helston is an idyllic destination for visitors who are looking to experience the best of England’s West Country.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Helston’s top attractions, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and cultural landmarks. We’ll also show you the best places to stay, eat, drink, and shop, as well as give you some insider tips on how to navigate the town with ease.

List of Places to Visit in Helston

  • Flambards
  • The Helston Museum
  • The National Seal Sanctuary
  • Poldark Mine
  • Coronation Lake
  • St Michael’s Church
  • The Blue Anchor Inn
  • The Lizard Point
  • Kynance Cove

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Helston is steeped in history, and there are plenty of cultural landmarks that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top museums and historical places:

  • The Helston Museum: Housed in a beautiful Victorian building, the Helston Museum is home to a fascinating collection of exhibits that showcase the town’s history and culture. Visitors can explore everything from mining artifacts to ancient swords and armor.

  • Poldark Mine: This historic tin mine offers visitors the chance to experience what life was like for miners during the 18th and 19th centuries. With guided tours, underground adventures, and a wealth of fascinating exhibits, Poldark Mine is a must-visit attraction for history buffs.

Natural Attractions of Helston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Helston is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenery in the UK. From rugged coastlines to rolling hills, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. Here are some of our top picks:

  • The Lizard Point: As the southernmost point of the British mainland, the Lizard Point offers breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. Visitors can hike the coastal path, explore the nearby Lizard Village, or simply soak up the stunning scenery.

  • Kynance Cove: This picturesque cove is famous for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and dramatic rock formations. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or explore the nearby caves and cliffs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Helston

Helston is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the countryside. Here are some of our favorites:

  • The Coast Path: This scenic hiking trail follows the coast from Helston to the Lizard Point, offering spectacular views of the sea, cliffs, and countryside along the way.

  • Helford River: This idyllic river valley is home to a network of beautiful hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Helston: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a history buff or an adrenaline junkie, there are plenty of things to do in Helston. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Flambards: This amusement park is a hit with both kids and adults, offering everything from thrilling rides to interactive exhibits.

  • The National Seal Sanctuary: This marine sanctuary is a great place to learn about the amazing creatures that call the ocean home. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits or watch feeding time for the seals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Helston

Day 1: Explore the Helston Museum and stroll around town.

Day 2: Go underground at Poldark Mine or take a trip to the National Seal Sanctuary.

Day 3: Visit the stunning Lizard Point and hike along the Coast Path.

Day 4: Enjoy an afternoon at Kynance Cove, soaking up the sun and exploring the caves and cliffs.

Day 5: Try one of the many outdoor activities available, such as biking along Helford River.

Day 6: Enjoy a pint at the Blue Anchor Inn, one of the oldest pubs in the UK.

Day 7: Spend the day at Flambards, taking in the thrilling rides and interactive exhibits.

Food and Drink Scene of Helston

Helston has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of pubs, restaurants, and cafes serving up delicious dishes and local specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish pasties: These savory pastry treats are a staple of Cornish cuisine, filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and cheeses.

  • Cream tea: A quintessential English tradition, cream tea consists of scones, clotted cream, and jam, served with a pot of tea.

Local Beverages

  • Cornish cider: Made from locally grown apples, Cornish cider is a refreshing and flavorful drink that’s perfect for a hot summer’s day.

  • St. Austell Brewery beers: This local brewery produces a range of award-winning beers, from refreshing lagers to full-bodied ales.

Where to Stay in Helston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of great accommodation options in Helston, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of our top picks:

  • The Halzephron Inn: This charming inn offers comfortable rooms, delicious food, and stunning sea views.

  • The Angel Hotel: Located in the heart of town, this historic hotel is perfect for visitors who want to be close to the action.

What to Buy in Helston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Helston is known for its traditional crafts and locally produced foods. Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Cornish fudge: This creamy, sweet fudge is a popular treat among locals and visitors alike.

  • Cornish pottery: From plates to mugs to decorative pieces, Cornish pottery is a great way to bring a piece of Helston home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Helston

Helston has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of customs and traditions that visitors can experience. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Floral dance: Held every May, this traditional dance involves dancers weaving their way through the streets of Helston, carrying garlands of colorful flowers.

Best Time to Visit Helston

The best time to visit Helston depends on your personal preferences. The summer months are the most popular, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities, while the off-season is quieter and more budget-friendly. The town is especially beautiful in the spring, when flowers are in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Helston

Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Helston:

Do:

  • Take part in the traditional cultural events, such as the floral dance.

  • Explore the stunning natural landscapes, from rugged cliffs to rolling hills.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the power of the sea. Always be careful when swimming or exploring the coast.

  • Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Helston is a safe and healthy destination, with good medical facilities and emergency services. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Helston

  • Be aware of the tides and currents when swimming or exploring the coast.

  • Always follow safety guidelines when taking part in outdoor activities.

Health in Helston

  • Make sure to bring any medications and prescriptions with you.

  • Stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun.

Getting to Helston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Helston is easily accessible via plane, train, or car. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near Helston

The nearest international airports are Bristol Airport (98 miles) and Newquay Airport (28 miles).

Bus Stations Near Helston

Helston Bus Station is located in the town centre, offering regular connections to Falmouth, Truro, and Penzance.

Other Options

There are also train stations located in Falmouth, Truro, and Penzance, offering connections to other parts of the UK.

How to Get Around in Helston

The best way to get around Helston is on foot or by bike. There are also local bus services available, as well as taxis.

Where to Go Next from Helston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth exploring:

  • St. Ives: This picturesque seaside town is home to stunning beaches, art galleries, and quaint shops and cafes.

  • Falmouth: Known for its maritime history and vibrant arts scene, Falmouth is a must-visit destination for culture vultures.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and charming town centre, Helston is an idyllic destination for visitors who want to experience the best of England’s West Country. Whether you’re looking for history, adventure, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone in Helston.

Coinagehall Street Helston on Flora Day Coinagehall Street Helston on Flora Day Cannon outside Helston Folk Museum Cannon outside Helston Folk Museum Cober Valley viaduct Cober Valley viaduct Kynance Cove Kynance Cove