Penzance Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gem of Penzance with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from culture, food, tourist spots, and safety tips.


Introduction to Penzance

Penzance is a charming town situated in the southwest of England in the county of Cornwall. It is located in the region commonly known as West Country and is a popular destination for vacationers thanks to its rich history and beautiful landscapes. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and boasts several stunning beaches, quaint streets, and historic buildings that paint a perfect picture of authentic British life.

List of Places to Visit in Penzance

When visiting Penzance, you must check out these places to have the time of your life:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Penzance has an impressive array of museums and historic places that showcase the town’s rich heritage and culture. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Penlee House Gallery and Museum - housing an impressive collection of Cornish art, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.

  • St. Michael’s Mount - a stunning castle built on a tidal rock island, this place offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.

  • The Egyptian House - a beautiful house designed in an Egyptian style that can be best described as unique.

Natural Attractions of Penzance: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Penzance is blessed with some of the most beautiful outdoor landscapes in the UK. From hills and mountains to beaches and forests, there’s no shortage of natural wonders here. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • Land’s End - famous for being the westernmost point of England, this place offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Minack Theatre - a beautiful open-air theatre on the cliffs with a stunning vista of the sea, perfect for a unique movie experience.

  • St. Ives Beaches - a collection of stunning beaches that offer crystal clear waters and a golden sandy coastline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Penzance

Penzance offers an abundance of picturesque walking and cycling trails, ideal for both the casual stroller and the seasoned hiker. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • South West Coast Path - a 630-mile hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  • St. Michael’s Way - a historic trail that follows the ancient pilgrimage route between Cornwall and Brittany.

  • Lands End Cycle Hire - a place that rents out bikes and offers guided tours through some of the town’s most scenic areas.

Best Things to Do in Penzance: Activities and Tours

Penzance is a town that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re an art lover, outdoor adventurer, or just looking to unwind, there are plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Tremenheere Sculpture Garden - a beautiful garden that offers an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures.

  • Penzance Art Scene - a town with a thriving art scene, Penzance has numerous art galleries that showcase local and international artists.

  • Penzance Promenade - a charming walkway that offers beautiful views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Penzance

If you’re planning to spend a week in Penzance, here’s an itinerary that covers all the must-see spots and activities:

Day Activities
1 Explore the Land’s End, Sennen Cove and The Minack Theatre
2 Visit the historic St. Michael’s Mount and Penlee House Gallery
3 Discover the countryside with cycling through Marazion to Praa Sands
4 Spend the day shopping and eating in the town center
5 Take a walk along Penzance Promenade and enjoy the sunset at Newlyn Fishing Harbour
6 Spend the day at St Ives Bay, visit Tate St Ives
7 Discover Penwith Peninsula with its amazing views at Cape Cornwall and Geevor Tin Mine

Food and Drink Scene of Penzance

Penzance is home to some of the finest cuisine in the UK, with several top-tier restaurants that offer a blend of local and international dishes. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish Pasty - a savory pastry that is a staple of Cornish cuisine.

  • Cornish Cream Tea - a traditional tea made with scones, jam, and clotted cream.

  • Steak and Ale Pie - a delicious pie with a generous filling of steak and ale.

Local Beverages

  • Cornish Ale - a rich, smooth, and refreshing beer that is a must-try for anyone in Penzance.

  • Cornish Cider - a crisp cider that is made with locally grown apples and other fruits.

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

If you’re planning to stay in Penzance, there are several options to choose from. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • The Queens Hotel - a classic and elegant hotel that offers stunning sea views.

  • Westbourne Guest House - an affordable yet comfortable guest house located in the heart of Penzance.

  • YHA Penzance - a hostel that offers budget-friendly accommodation with excellent facilities.

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

Penzance offers an array of souvenirs and local products that are perfect for taking home as a memory of your trip. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Penzance Pirate Merchandise - a fun way to remember your visit to the home of the famous pirates.

  • Cornish Fudge - a sweet caramelized candy that comes in various flavors.

  • Cornish Clotted Cream - an essential ingredient for a traditional Cornish Cream Tea.

Local Culture and Customs of Penzance

Penzance has a rich culture that is a blend of British and Cornish traditions. The town is known for its lively festivals, such as Golowan Festival and Montol Festival, which are annual events that celebrate the local heritage. People in Penzance are generally friendly and welcoming, and it’s customary to greet people with a smile and a nod or a “Hello”.

Best Time to Visit Penzance

The best time to visit Penzance is during the summer months from June to August. The weather is warm and mild, and the town is bustling with activity, thanks to the numerous festivals and events that take place during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Penzance

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Penzance:

Do:

  • Do visit the local museums and art galleries.

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Do explore the countryside and natural landscapes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the streets.

  • Don’t use offensive language.

  • Don’t forget to take your trash with you.

Safety and Health

Safety in Penzance

Penzance is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as locking their valuables away and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Penzance

Penzance has an excellent healthcare system. In case of a medical emergency, visitors can access the National Health Service (NHS) or go to the West Cornwall Hospital for treatment.

Getting to Penzance: Transportation Options and Logistics

Penzance is well-connected to the rest of the UK. Here are some of the transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Penzance

The nearest airports to Penzance are Newquay Cornwall Airport and Exeter Airport.

Bus Stations Near Penzance

There are several bus stations in Penzance, including the Penzance Bus Station and Wharfside Shopping Center.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Penzance by train, with the Penzance Train Station being the main transport hub for trains in the region.

How to Get Around in Penzance

Penzance is a small town that can be easily explored on foot. There are also buses and taxis available for those who prefer public transport.

Where to Go Next from Penzance: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Penzance is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding areas of Cornwall. Here are some of the places to visit:

  • St. Ives - a beautiful seaside town with stunning beaches and a thriving art scene.

  • Lizard Point - the most southern point in Cornwall and England, with numerous hiking trails and natural landscapes.

  • The Eden Project - an ecological project that offers a fascinating insight into the world of plants and nature.

Conclusion

Penzance is one of the most beautiful towns in Cornwall and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your next trip to Penzance with ease and have the time of your life discovering all the wonders this town has to offer.

The Egyptian House, Chapel St The Egyptian House, Chapel St Scillonian ferry leaving Penzance, viewed from Battery Rocks Scillonian ferry leaving Penzance, viewed from Battery Rocks The Market House The Market House Penzance harbour and church Penzance harbour and church Statue of Sir Humphry Davy, Market Jew St Statue of Sir Humphry Davy, Market Jew St