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.