Penzance Gems
St Michael’s Mount
With centuries of stories waiting within its castle walls, St Michael’s Mount in Marazion is every child’s dream playground. If you’re planning a family visit, take a look at our practical guide to the island – complete with tips on things to and essential information about facilities.
The PZ town trail
Uncover the story of Penzance by walking its official trail, taking in the towns history and some of its most interesting landmarks.
Distance: Approximately 2km or 1.3 miles.
Duration: Allow at least two hours.
As you walk around Penzance, you may notice small slate markers engraved with numbers on streets and buildings. Taken in turn, these form a whistle-stop tour of the town’s heritage (not to mention its top beauty spots.)
The Penzance Promenade
The iconic Penzance promenade stretches the seafront between The Jubilee Pool and Newlyn and is an idyllic place to stroll, roller skate, jog or just sit and people watch. Dating back to the 1800’s the Promenade gives breath taking views of Mounts Bay and Newlyn, day or night there is something magical about.
There are occasions when it rains in Cornwall and Irish painter Norman Garstin captured such a day in his painting “The Rain it Raineth Every Day” which was to become an iconic painting of Penzance in 1889 – capturing the grandeur, splendour and light of the Victorian Promenade, come rain or shine. That very same painting now resides in Penlee Gallery a few 100 metres from its Promenade inspiration.
Jubilee Geothermal pool
Opened in 1935 to celebrate the silver jubilee of George V, the Jubilee Pool is an Art Deco masterpiece. Built on a historic bathing spot of the Battery Rocks, it provided safe and sheltered alternative to diving off the rocks and straight into the sea.
It is Britain’s largest surviving seawater Lido and is has the luxury of the opening of the Geo-Thermal heated pool area - it’s a must-try
Morrab Gardens and Penlee Park & Gardens
Morrab Gardens
In brief: Originally created with exotic plants gifted by local estates, the Morrab Gardens date back to the 1880s. Tucked away in the heart of town, they combine shady walkways with bright open spaces.
Don’t miss: Stroll around and you’ll find an ornate cast iron fountain, Victorian bandstand, ponds and war memorial; all hiding among the palms, olive trees and bamboo.
Find out more: morrabgardens.org
Penlee Park
In brief: Surrounding the Penlee House Gallery and Museum, Penlee Park contains species from all over the world. Once owned by the Branwell family, it was purchased by the town in 1946 as a living memorial to locals lost during the Second World War.
Don’t miss: The tranquil Memorial Garden is in bloom nearly all year and contains a small chapel for quiet moments. During summer, the park runs a packed outdoor theatre programme.
Find out more: penleehouse.org.uk
The Exchange & Newlyn Art Gallery
The Exchange is a major contemporary art space in the centre of Penzance that opened in 2007 in conjunction with renovations to Newlyn Art Gallery. Together the galleries present contemporary work in all media by regional, national and international artists, with a supporting programme of events. Formerly the town’s telephone exchange, the huge space retains the industrial feel of the building and features a large t-shaped gallery and a striking glass facade that runs the entire length of the building. The Exchange is located off historic Chapel Street, within easy walking distance of the bus and train stations. There is a well-stocked book and gift shop plus a cafe serving snacks and light lunches.
Trewidden Garden
In brief: Still owned by the Bolitho family, Trewidden spans 15 acres of informal paths, champion trees and walled gardens. As you wander, you’ll find traces of its ancient mining history, including an old surface working transformed into a tree fern dell.
Don’t miss: Essentially a maze of paths, Trewidden is best discovered by freely wandering. Highlights include the pond garden (with its whale tail sculpture) and the surprise police phone box near the north walk.
Find out more: trewiddengarden.co.uk
Chapel Street & Causeway Head
Extending up from the Quay is one of the oldest parts of Penzance – dating back to the mid 18th century, Chapel Street is rich in history and a place where you can find the most eclectic mix of buildings and retail outlets.
So much to take in …….
No.25 was once the home of Maria Branwell – she was the mother of Charlotte, Anne, Emily and Branwell Bronte,
The Admiral Benbow pub which is famed for being in the opening scene of Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
The Turks Head, one of the oldest pubs in the town dating back to 1820
The extravagant and flamboyant architecture of the Egyptian House built in 1835 and a tribute and celebration of the British Empire era
Independent shops in abundance – art, fashion, rugs, craft and design, gift and much more.
Antiques and Collectibles – with over 10 of the most fascinating vintage, collectibles and curiosity shops tucked away in arcades and back alleys off Chapel Street, hours can be just filled with the most fascinating ‘must have’ finds of every description. A great way to escape the baking sun or occasional rain showers.
Penzance to Marazion – seafront walk (2.7 miles)
Starting at the Penzance rail station, this easy, virtually level surfaced walk is ideal for walkers, joggers, cyclists and suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs
It’s a bracing walk with stunning views across St. Michael’s Bay to St. Michaels Mount, The Lizard in the distance and Mousehole. Great for dogs too as you will pass a few dog friendly beaches and opportunities to grab a coffee or something stronger at cafes and pubs on the way.
Its one of the ‘must do’ walks – bracing sea air and breath-taking sea views, taking you to the beautiful village of Marazion with restaurants, bar and art & craft retail to take in before your return to Penzance.
