If you’re wondering what to do in Penzance, find an abundance of things to do all year round.
Penzance is a thriving Cornwall hotspot that features a wealth of seafood eateries, golden beaches and historic attractions. This market town is the last stop on the Great Western rail, one of the most southerly points in Britain.
There are many Penzance beaches perfect for a summer holiday in Cornwall, featuring golden sands and so much to do. Praa Sands Beach is a sandy haven where you can surf the waves alongside awe-inspiring coastal views. Alternatively, explore Long Rock Beach which allows dogs all year round, whilst Sennen Cove is ideal for families, surfers and nature lovers.
Our list of what to do in Penzance includes taking a walk along Chapel Street, a charming historic street with several unique Victorian buildings. Men-An-Tol is a popular destination where visitors will see Bronze Age stones sculpted to look like human faces and includes the only pierced stone in the country. No trip to Penzance is complete without a boat trip over to the sensational island of St Michael’s Mount, managed by the National Trust.
Whether you’re here for a long break or a quick trip, there’s plenty of activities in Penzance. Make sure you visit the Minack Theatre for unforgettable performances throughout the year. Visitors who enjoy the outdoors will be enchanted by a day out to Trenwainton Garden or Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens.
Continue reading to find more fun Penzance things to do…
Photo of Chapel Street by Kathryn Yengel
Chapel Street
Penzance
TR18 4AE
01736 331331
A popular restaurant tucked away in a courtyard filled with fairy lights and palm trees. This quaint hotspot is only a three-minute walk from the beach.
view more information
Battery Rocks Beach
Battery Rd
Penzance
Cornwall
TR18 4FF
Sitting between the historic South Pier and the Art Deco Jubilee Pool, this sand and shingle beach is a gem often overlooked by tourists. Sitting between the historic South Pier and the Art Deco Jubilee Pool, this sand and shingle beach is a gem often overlooked by tourists.
view more information
12-13 Chapel Street
Penzance
Cornwall
TR18 4AW
01736 369729
Head to Penzance’s historic Chapel Street where you can grab a coffee, indulge in a delicious brunch or spend the evening sipping cocktails.
view more information
St Just
Penzance
Cornwall
TR19 7ER
Head to this popular walking spot where you can tread in the footsteps of Cornwall’s miners and spot the remains of the mines themselves.
view more information
Carn Galver Engine House
Visitors can immerse themselves in Cornwall’s rich mining history at the ruins of this 19th-century mine.
view more information
TR18 4AF
Penzance’s oldest street, steeped in historical buildings and charming townhouses from the 18th century that lead to the enchanting St Mary’s Church.
view more information
1 Lamorna Cove
Lamorna Penzance
Cornwall
TR19 6XH
01736 732153
Guests will feel worlds away at this sub-tropical garden carved into a cliff edge overlooking the stunning Larmona Cove.
view more informationNew Mill
Penzance
Cornwall
TR20 8XA
07831757934
A Romano-British settlement where visitors can explore the remains of the homes originally occupied by settlers almost 2,000 years ago.
view more information
Cudden Point National Trust
Penzance
Cornwall
TR20 9BB
Take in coastal views and appreciate the tranquillity of this headland with views across Mounts Bay towards Penzance.
view more information
Nottles Park
Davidstow
Camelford
Cornwall
PL32 9YF
A war museum and airfield that allows visitors an insight into living through conflict and the role of the armed forces.
view more information