Penzance sits at the far southwest corner of Cornwall, with views across Mount’s Bay and easy access to many of the West Cornwall’s key spots. It’s a working town with a strong maritime history, relaxed atmosphere, and good local food.
The town centre is compact, with independent shops, galleries, and cafés spread along Market Jew Street and Chapel Street. You’ll find Georgian buildings, old pubs, and a mix of new and traditional Cornish businesses. Art and creativity are part of daily life here, helped by nearby communities like Newlyn and St Ives.
From the promenade, you can walk along the seafront to the Jubilee Pool, an open-air lido filled with sea water. It’s one of the largest of its kind in the UK and includes a geothermal section, so it stays warm even in cooler months. The views across to St Michael’s Mount from the shore are clear, especially at sunset.
Penzance is well placed for exploring further west. From here, it’s easy to reach Land’s End, the Minack Theatre, and the beaches around Sennen and Porthcurno. Day trips to the Isles of Scilly also leave from the harbour by ferry or small plane.
Accommodation
The Chapel House
When staying in the fine old market town of Penzance, why not treat yourself with the superb accommodation on offer at the Chapel house. Based in the most historic street in the town and with a story to tell historically, this dream if a ‘guest house’ merges Georgian elegance with a contemporary twist and a laid-back welcome.
Blue Seas Hotel
Overlooking Cornwall is only Victorian promenade in Penzance, Blue Seas is a firm favourite.
The contemporary bedrooms are all individually designed and showcase local artworks and textiles. Many have glorious sea views overlooking Mounts Bay towards Newlyn and Mousehole. There’s a spacious guest lounge and library, and guests can also enjoy a cream tea in the (hopefully) sunny front garden!
Chy-an-Mor Guesthouse
Chy-an-Mor guesthouse is an adult-only, fabulous four storey Regency home, offering bed and breakfast in Penzance. Sympathetically and stylishly restored to reflect its period. There are great sea views and with the promenade opposite as well as subtropical gardens leading into the heart of the town only a short stroll away, you’re sure to have a great experience and a very friendly welcome.
The Lugger Inn
Lesley and her great team of staff will ensure that you have a wonderful stay at this great hotel and restaurant opposite the fabulous prom in here Penzance!
Whether you are in town for sightseeing, hiking, cycling, water sports or local culture, you will discover that the Lugger Inn is the perfect place to rest weary feet and fill hungry bellies after a day of Cornish adventuring.