A journey to England’s westernmost tip will never disappoint. The area is steeped in history, the countryside is second-to-none and there are many wonderful attractions to suit every taste.
From Land’s End’s dramatic clifftops, to thrill of a roller coaster at one of the region’s theme parks; from the dizzying heights of St Michael’s Mount, to the playful seal cubs at Gweek’s sanctuary – there’s something for everyone in West Cornwall.
Read on and reveal the best things to do in West Cornwall…
Trengwainton Gardens image by Martin Stone licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Highlights: popular attractions in West Cornwall
- Land’s End, near Penzance – England’s most westerly point offers broad seascape views and has attracted tourists for hundreds of years
- Paradise Park, Hayle – This park is home to a range of colourful birds, including toucans, flamingos and parrots; as well as furry friends, such as the cute red panda
- Minack Theatre, Porthcurno – The open sea provides a dramatic backdrop to this world-renowned, open air theatre that’s hewn from the rocky cliffs and softened by lawned terraces
- St Michael’s Mount, Marazion – At low tide it is possible to walk across the causeway and visit the medieval church that sits atop this rocky island
- Tate Gallery, St Ives – Exhibiting artwork from modern British artists, the Tate Gallery, in one of Cornwall’s most historic towns, should not be missed
- Flambards, Helston – For family fun, Flambards excels. Enjoy the log flume and rollercoaster before putting your driving skills to the test on the karting track
- Poldark Mine, Trenear, Helston – Situated in the Cober River Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has both historical significance and rural beauty in spades
- Geevor Tin Mine, Penzance – This mine was in operation up until 1990, and the site now serves as a museum with machinery, tools and guided tours underground
- Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek – This sanctuary endeavours to return pups to the wild, and also has a variety of characterful permanent residents, among them seals, sea lions and penguins
- Godolphin House, Helston – This estate, rich in archaeology, is home to a magical 16th century, ancient buildings, mysterious woodland and some of the finest views in all of Cornwall
- Penlee House, Penzance – Described as the artistic heart of Cornwall, Penlee House gallery exhibits collections of fine art, photography and items of local archaeological significance
- Porthcurno Telegraph Museum, Porthcurno – Housed in a cable station, the Telegraph Museum highlights the science and fascinating social history behind Britain’s rich communication heritage
- Cornwall Gold (Cornish Goldsmiths), Redruth – Set in 18 acres of tin mining grounds, Cornwall Gold is home to the county’s largest selection of local-created jewellery. You can learn about the history of jewellery in Cornwall, pan for gold and then lunch in the renowned restaurant before choosing something you fancy from she shop
- Trengwainton Gardens, Penzance – Spring arrives in Cornwall before just about anywhere else in the UK, and the spectacular spring blooms in Trengwainton Gardens arrive in February and are a sight to behold
Find even more things to do in Cornwall, allowing you to make the most of your Cornwall cottage holiday. If you’re looking for more attractions across the county, check out this guide covering the best animal sanctuaries to visit in Cornwall »