So many Beaches! Why not try...
1. Sennen Cove (15 mins) – A wide, sandy beach with great surfing conditions and shallow areas perfect for paddling. The village has a relaxed vibe, with cafés and galleries to explore.
2. Porthcurno Beach (25 mins) – A picture-perfect beach with soft white sand and turquoise waters. Sheltered by cliffs, it’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
3. Porth Nanven Beach (10 mins walking) – Known as “Dinosaur Egg Beach” because of its smooth, egg-shaped boulders, this secluded cove is a hidden gem. At low tide, a crystal-clear lagoon known as the Mermaid Pool forms among the rocks.
4. Gwenver Beach (15 mins) – A quieter alternative to Sennen, Gwenver is a favourite among locals for its unspoiled beauty and great waves for bodyboarding.
5. Pedn Vounder Beach (30 mins) – A hidden paradise with golden sand and crystal-clear water. Access involves a steep cliff path, but it’s well worth the effort.
Wild Swimming Spots
1. The Mermaid Pool at Porth Nanven (10 mins walking) – A natural tidal pool that forms at low tide. Its calm, clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.
2. Priest’s Cove (10 mins) – A small cove near Cape Cornwall with a natural pool among the rocks. Great for a quick swim while enjoying views of the rugged cliffs and Brisons Rocks.
3. Lamorna Cove (20 mins) – A sheltered cove popular with wild swimmers. The clear, deep waters make it a great spot for confident swimmers, especially at high tide.
4. Nanjizal Beach (20 mins) – A secluded beach with a beautiful tidal pool and natural rock arch known as the “Song of the Sea.” Perfect for wild swimming and rock pool exploration.
5. Portheras Cove (15 mins) – A peaceful beach with golden sand and calm waters. Less busy than other nearby beaches, it’s a great spot for a quiet swim.
Coastal Walks
Cape Cornwall Circular Walk (Starts in St Just) – This 3-mile circular walk takes you along rugged cliffs, passing Cape Cornwall and Priest’s Cove. Enjoy breathtaking sea views and discover Cornwall’s rich mining heritage.
Botallack to Levant Mine Walk (5 mins) – A 2-mile coastal walk through the heart of Cornwall’s mining history. Explore the iconic ruins of Botallack and Levant Mines while taking in spectacular views of the Atlantic.
Zennor to Gurnard’s Head (15 mins) – A challenging 6-mile walk along the South West Coast Path with stunning cliff-top scenery. The path is rugged but rewards you with breathtaking views and the chance to spot seals.
Porthcurno to Porthgwarra (25 mins) – This 4-mile stretch of the South West Coast Path passes beautiful beaches, hidden coves, and the famous Minack Theatre. Keep an eye out for dolphins and basking sharks!
Sennen to Land’s End (15 mins) – An easy 1.5-mile walk that links Sennen Cove with Land’s End, the most westerly point of mainland Britain.
Inland & Heritage Walks
Kenidjack Valley Walk (10 mins) – A peaceful 4-mile walk along a wooded valley that leads to the coast. Explore old engine houses and spot wildlife along the way.
Carn Brea and Chapel Carn Brea Walk (15 mins) – Climb to the top of Chapel Carn Brea for panoramic views across West Cornwall. This ancient hillfort is a magical spot for sunset walks.
St Michael’s Way (25 mins) – A 12-mile pilgrim route from Lelant to St Michael’s Mount, crossing moorland, valleys, and ancient tracks. Perfect for those seeking a longer hike with historical significance.
Tregeseal Stone Circle Walk (10 mins) – A short walk to this ancient stone circle on the outskirts of St Just. Combine it with a longer exploration of the surrounding moorland.
Lanyon Quoit and Men-an-Tol Walk (15 mins) – Visit two iconic prehistoric sites on this gentle 3-mile walk. Men-an-Tol’s mysterious stone formations are believed to have healing properties.
Whether you’re exploring ancient sites, visiting family-friendly attractions, or soaking up our rich artistic heritage, there’s loads to do!
Family-Friendly Adventures
Geevor Tin Mine (10 mins) – Step back in time at this former tin mine turned museum. Explore underground tunnels, learn about Cornwall’s mining heritage, and try your hand at gold panning.
Paradise Park & JungleBarn (30 mins) – A fantastic wildlife sanctuary in Hayle with tropical birds, red pandas, and a fun indoor play area for kids.
St Ives Surf School (45 mins) – Take a surfing lesson at Porthmeor Beach in St Ives. Perfect for families looking for an active day out by the sea.
Isles of Scilly Day Trip – Hop on a ferry from Penzance and explore the stunning Isles of Scilly. With pristine beaches and lush gardens, it’s a unique adventure for the whole family.
Cultural Activities & Historic Sites
Minack Theatre (30 mins) – This open-air theatre perched on a cliff offers unforgettable performances with breathtaking views. Even without a show, it’s worth visiting for a tour.
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden (45 mins) – Explore the works of one of Britain’s most famous sculptors in her former St Ives studio and garden.
Penlee House Gallery & Museum (20 mins) – A wonderful museum in Penzance showcasing the art and history of West Cornwall, including works by members of the Newlyn School of Art.
Chysauster Ancient Village (30 mins) – Discover this well-preserved Iron Age settlement with stone houses and spectacular countryside views.
St Michael’s Mount (25 mins) – One of Cornwall’s most iconic landmarks. Walk across the causeway or take a boat to this tidal island and explore the medieval castle and beautiful gardens.
Eat and be merry at one of the many fantastic eateries in the area:
Local Dining (Within 15–30 Minutes)
The Dog and Rabbit Café, St Just – A cosy café in the heart of St Just, offering delicious homemade meals, light bites, and excellent coffee. Perfect for breakfast or a relaxed lunch.
The Gurnard’s Head (15 mins) – This coastal pub near Zennor is known for its seasonal menu and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes daily, offering everything from seafood to hearty meat and vegetarian dishes.
The Tinners Arms (15 mins) – Nestled in the village of Zennor, this traditional pub has been serving visitors since 1271. It’s a great spot for classic pub food and a pint of local ale.
Argoe (20 mins) – Situated on Newlyn’s harbourside, Argoe offers a relaxed dining experience focusing on fresh, sustainably caught fish. The menu is simple yet refined, letting the quality of the seafood shine.
The Shore Restaurant (25 mins) – A fine dining experience in Penzance, led by Michelin-trained chef Bruce Rennie. The menu is inspired by the sea and changes daily based on what’s fresh.
Further Afield (30–60 Minutes)
The Old Coastguard (30 mins) – A relaxed seaside hotel and restaurant in Mousehole, offering excellent food with stunning views of Mount’s Bay. Their seafood dishes are a highlight.
The Ugly Butterfly (45 mins) – Located in Carbis Bay, The Ugly Butterfly offers a sustainable dining experience using local ingredients and food waste creatively. Expect beautifully presented dishes with bold, innovative flavours, all served with stunning coastal views.
Porthminster Beach Café (45 mins) – Located right on the beach in St Ives, this award-winning café specializes in Mediterranean and Asian-inspired seafood dishes with breathtaking coastal views.
The Hidden Hut (1 hr) – A rustic outdoor eatery on the Roseland Peninsula, famous for its seasonal feast nights and simple, delicious lunches.
The area is a paradise for garden lovers, with its subtropical climate and stunning coastal landscapes. From hidden woodland retreats to world-famous botanical collections, why not explore...
Local Gems (Within 30 Minutes)
Trewidden Garden (15 mins) – A tranquil garden known for its camellias, magnolias, and impressive tree ferns. A perfect spot for a peaceful wander.
Trengwainton Garden (20 mins) – This sheltered National Trust garden offers exotic plants, walled gardens, and spectacular views over Mount’s Bay.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens (20 mins) – A unique blend of contemporary art and exotic planting. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens dotted with sculptures, and enjoy breathtaking views of St Michael’s Mount.
Morrab Gardens (15 mins) – A subtropical haven in Penzance, featuring palm trees, banana plants, and vibrant flowerbeds. Ideal for a relaxing escape in the heart of the town.
The Minack Theatre Gardens (30 mins) – Perched on cliffs above the Atlantic, the Minack Theatre’s gardens are filled with succulents and hardy coastal plants that thrive in this dramatic setting.
Further Afield (1–2 Hours)
Tresco Abbey Garden, Isles of Scilly – A short ferry or flight from Penzance, Tresco Abbey Garden is a world-renowned subtropical paradise, home to thousands of rare and exotic plants.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan (1 hr 30 mins) – A magical 200-acre estate with lush Victorian gardens, ancient woodlands, and a jungle area filled with giant ferns and exotic plants.
Eden Project (1 hr 45 mins) – Explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest inside Eden’s iconic biomes. With tropical and Mediterranean gardens, it’s an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.