St. Just in Penwith Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful town of St. Just in Penwith in Cornwall, England. Our comprehensive travel guide covers must-see attractions, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to St. Just in Penwith

St. Just in Penwith is a historic mining town located in the far west of Cornwall, England. The town is situated on the stunning North Cornish coast and is surrounded by rugged moorland and breathtaking coastal scenery. With a rich mining heritage, St. Just in Penwith is a fascinating destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike.

List of Places to Visit in St. Just in Penwith

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Geevor Tin Mine Museum - This museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the history of tin mining in Cornwall. Explore the underground workings, learn about the harsh conditions that miners worked in, and discover the impact the tin industry had on the local community.

  • St. Just Heritage Centre - Situated in the heart of the town, this museum offers an insight into the lives of the people who lived and worked in St. Just in Penwith.

Natural Attractions of St. Just in Penwith: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape Cornwall - This stunning headland offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Cornish coastline. Cape Cornwall is also a popular spot for birdwatching and seal spotting.

  • South West Coast Path - St. Just in Penwith is situated on the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile-long trail that stretches from Somerset to Dorset. Hikers can explore the beautiful Cornish coastline and enjoy stunning views of the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Just in Penwith

  • The Tin Coast Trail - This trail follows the South West Coast Path and takes hikers past the historic mining sites that helped make St. Just in Penwith famous.

  • The Mineral Tramways Trail - This flat and easy trail follows the route of the old mining tramways through the Cornish countryside. The trail is perfect for walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Best Things to Do in St. Just in Penwith: Activities and Tours

  • Coastal kayaking - Experience the Cornish coastline from a unique perspective with a sea kayaking tour. Paddle along the rugged coastline and spot seals, birds, and other wildlife along the way.

  • Surfing - The North Cornish coast is famous for its surf, and St. Just in Penwith is no exception. The town is situated close to some of the best surf spots in Cornwall, including Sennen Cove and Gwynver Beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Just in Penwith

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Geevor Tin Mine Museum
Day 2 Hike the South West Coast Path to Cape Cornwall
Day 3 Take a kayaking tour of the Cornish coastline
Day 4 Visit St. Just Heritage Centre
Day 5 Surf at Gwynver Beach
Day 6 Walk the Tin Coast Trail
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the beautiful Cornish scenery

Food and Drink Scene of St. Just in Penwith

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish Pasty - This traditional Cornish pastry is filled with beef, potatoes, onions, and swede, making it the perfect meal for a day out exploring the Cornish countryside.

  • Cornish Cream Tea - This classic afternoon treat consists of scones, clotted cream, and strawberry jam, served with a piping hot pot of tea.

Local Beverages

  • Cornish Ale - Cornwall is home to a number of excellent breweries, including St. Austell Brewery and Skinner’s Brewery. Try a pint of local ale at one of the town’s traditional pubs.

  • Cornish Cider - Cornwall is also famous for its cider, with a number of excellent producers located in the county.

Where to Stay in St. Just in Penwith: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Commercial Hotel - This historic hotel is situated in the heart of St. Just in Penwith and offers comfortable rooms and traditional pub food.

  • The Wellington Hotel - This 17th-century coaching inn has been restored to its former glory and offers a range of comfortable rooms and excellent food.

What to Buy in St. Just in Penwith: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish Sea Salt - Cornish Sea Salt is harvested from the waters around Cornwall and is the perfect ingredient for any aspiring chef.

  • Cornish Fudge - This sweet treat is made using local ingredients and is the perfect souvenir to bring home to your friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of St. Just in Penwith

St. Just in Penwith has a rich mining heritage, with many of its residents working in the tin mines that were once a vital part of the local economy. The town also has a strong artistic community, with a number of galleries and workshops located in the area.

Best Time to Visit St. Just in Penwith

The best time to visit St. Just in Penwith is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, visitors can enjoy the stunning Cornish scenery year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Just in Penwith

Do:

  • Take a walk along the South West Coast Path.

  • Visit the Geevor Tin Mine Museum.

Don’t:

  • Take stones or other souvenirs from the beach.

  • Park in restricted areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in St. Just in Penwith

St. Just in Penwith is a safe and friendly town, but visitors should take care when walking along the cliffs and on the beaches.

Health in St. Just in Penwith

There are no major health risks associated with visiting St. Just in Penwith, but visitors should make sure they have adequate travel insurance before arriving.

Getting to St. Just in Penwith: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. Just in Penwith

The nearest airport to St. Just in Penwith is Newquay Airport, which is located approximately 40 miles away.

Bus Stations Near St. Just in Penwith

The nearest bus station to St. Just in Penwith is in Penzance, which is approximately 8 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to St. Just in Penwith by car or train.

How to Get Around in St. Just in Penwith

St. Just in Penwith is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also hire a car or take a local bus to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from St. Just in Penwith: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lands End - The westernmost point of mainland England is just a short drive from St. Just in Penwith and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  • St. Ives - This picturesque town is known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and excellent restaurants.

Conclusion

St. Just in Penwith is a fascinating destination for visitors who are interested in history, nature, and culture. With its stunning scenery, excellent hiking and biking routes, and rich mining heritage, the town is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cornwall.

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