Look up

Stargazing in West Penwith

From October onwards, the darker evenings create the perfect opportunity for stargazing. West Penwith is an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) and has recently been designated an International Dark Sky Park (one of just seven sites in the UK). This means the area is naturally dark and has minimal light pollution.

Head out on a cloudless night to experience nature’s spectacle in the sky. Top stargazing spots include the Merry Maidens Stone Circle in Boleigh and Carn Galver Engine House in Zennor – you can find more through Go Stargazing.

Cost:

Free

Accessibility

Hearing
Learning
Sensory

The accessibility icons provide guidance on whether this activity is reasonably accessible to those with access needs, including mobility, vision, hearing, sensory sensitivity and learning differences. The icons are for guidance only. We advise that you contact the venue or experience provider in advance to confirm. You can find further information about accessible venues through Access Cornwall.

Transport

The travel icons provide guidance on whether this activity can be reached by train, bus or bike. You will see the car icon if there is no public transport available. If you see the walking icon, the activity is a short walk from a bus stop or train station. The icons are for guidance only. To plan your journey and find the latest ticket information, visit the Transport for Cornwall website.

Eco Top Tip

Respect wildlife by sticking to paths and keeping light pollution low.

Experience last updated on February 24th, 2023

This listing has been curated by the EXPERIENCE West Cornwall team and was correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We advise that you contact the venue or provider directly to confirm any seasonal opening details and to book the experience.

Also listed under Environment

Access Cornwall

Accessible stargazing

Cape Cornwall is part of the West Penwith International Dark Sky Park. The car park does have a slope, but it allows you to drive to a spot where you can see the stars over the ocean. There is a wonderful little café and accessible toilet facilities (usually open seven days a week from 10.30-16.30). Visit the National Trust website for more information.

For somewhere a little easier to access, head to Marazion to see the stars above St Michael’s Mount. There is an accessible walkway along the seafront and good facilities nearby. As an Access Cornwall reviewer notes, “I love to come here to Marazion and just lie on the wall by the sea and spend time looking up at the stars.”

Beryl Bikes

Pay-as-you-ride e-bikes

Discover the joy of pedal power and hop on a Beryl Bike to explore Mount’s Bay. Beryl Bikes are pay-as-you-ride e-bikes that you unlock through the Beryl app. There are pick-up points in Penzance, Newlyn, Mousehole and Marazion, so it’s the ideal way to see more of the coast without your car. Find out more here.

Land’s End Cycle Hire

Explore Land’s End

Land’s End Cycle Hire is based at Geevor Tin Mine Museum in Pendeen. They offer bikes for all abilities, from electric and hybrid options to mountain bikes, road bikes, tandems and bikes for younger cyclists. Find out more and book your bike here.