Art and Culture
Penzance Galleries
Welcome to the portside town where a gallery or ground-breaking exhibition is around every corner. Since the Victorian era, Penzance has seen its landscape immortalised in iconic paintings such as Norman Garstin’s ‘The Rain it Raineth Every Day’. (It doesn’t, by the way!) Now in the 21st century, we are a hub for traditional and modern arts in destinations such as Penlee House Gallery and Museum, The Exchange, Cornwall Contemporary, The Lighthouse Gallery and not-for-profit Redwing Gallery. Everyone from Grayson Perry to Jim Moir (Vic Reeves) rocks up in PZ to soak up the arty vibe and exhibit. Just step into one gallery after another – and browse. Find out more about this vibrant scene on our Penzance Art Galleries and Museums page.
Penlee Open air theatre
Located within Penlee Gardens is Penlee Park Open Air theatre which is a truly unique experience, that has celebrated Cornish, national and international performers since 1948. Music, humour and plays all delivered in a spring, summer and autumn programme.
Newlyn Filmhouse
Opened in March 2016, Newlyn FilmHouse is 2 Screen independent cinema, converted from a 1876 built granite old Fish Cellar & Smokery.
Based in the heart of Newlyn, Britains second largest Fishing Harbour, Newlyn Filmhouse has become a much-loved and well-used facility for locals and visitors alike, screening the best in World Cinema, Live Events and Arthouse films.
The driving force for us to open was the lack of diverse film offerings and stylish viewing experience from existing Cornish cinemas.
We actively encourage local film-makers including opening nights for independent films (eg, the BAFTA-winning BAIT hosted Q&A by Mark Kermode).
Beside our cinema, we have a modern spacious Eathouse restaurant and bar that has made our venue a much-needed cultural destination space for the whole family.
Minack
The Minack Theatre is Cornwall's world famous open-air-theatre, carved into the granite cliff and set in glorious gardens overlooking the spectacular panorama of Porthcurno Bay.
The summer theatre season runs from May to September presenting drama, musicals and opera in the most dramatic settings. Day visitors can enjoy this world famous open air theatre built by Rowena Cade.
It is a magical visit only 7.5 miles from Penzance
Jackson Art Foundation
In the centre of St.Just, is The Jackson Foundation which is housed within a massive ex-industrial building. The Foundation hosts an annual programme of quality contemporary exhibitions.
It’s an exciting and versatile world class art gallery is free to the public, and is the ideal venue to view Kurt Jackson’s varied and eclectic range of artistic expression spanning painting, poetry, sculpture, installation and film.
Worth a visit for all art lovers only 8 miles from Penzance
Tate St.Ives
Inspiring art and breath-taking scenery meet at Tate St. Ives. The iconic gallery overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and showcases some of the best-loved British Artworks of the twentieth century alongside and ever-changing programme of exhibitions
On site Shop and Cafe overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is a great place to visit for coffee, lunch, afternoon tea or a glass of wine
This a must visit for all art followers all year round
And remember – Joint tickets allow visitors Tate St.Ives free access to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Scuplture Gardens
(only 8 miles from Penzance)
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Gardens
Barbara Hepworth first came to live in Cornwall in 1939 working in Trewyn studios – which is now home now to the Barbara Hepworth Museum preserved as they were when she lived and worked there.
It is a fascinating experience where you can discover more about this leading figure of modern British art.
The Museum and Sculpture Gardens comprises over 30 works in wood, stone, plaster and bronze and gives a remarkable insight into one of Britain’s most important 20th century artists
And remember – Joint tickets allow visitors to Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Gardens free access to the Tate St.Ives
(only 8 miles from Penzance)
Leach Pottery
Founded in 1920 by Bernard Leach and Shoju Hamada, the Leach Pottery is amongst the most respected and influential potteries in the world. Many would consider this pottery as being the birthplace of British studio pottery.
Open all year round, visitors can view the Leach Pottery Studio, Museum and Gallery and shop
Getting stuck in….The Leach Pottery runs courses and classes throughout the year. From pottery taster sessions to specialist skills courses this centre will appeal to all levels from novice to experienced.
(only 8 miles from Penzance)
