5 Best Things to Do in and Around Penzance

If you came to us for surf lessons but are looking for something different to do when not riding the waves, then head to Penzance! Penzance is a gorgeous holiday destination on the south Cornish coast that offers a host of exciting things to see and do. Thanks to its sheltered and southerly location, it enjoys one of the mildest climates in the UK, making it even more attractive. Together with Parkhero we have put together a list of the top 5 things you can do in the town. If you are flying down to Cornwall and are looking for parking at Heathrow Airport or another UK airport, check out their website. 

#1 Fun at the beach 

There is no beach in Penzance itself but there are many fantastic options nearby, including beautiful Sennen Cove of course! Your nearest option is Marazion Beach, which enjoys spectacular views of St. Michaels Mount with its striking castle. Set yourself up on the golden sands and take in the glorious views or at low tide set off across the causeway and visit the castle. If you are still looking for adventure, then this beach is also a great place for kitesurfing, jet skiing and sailing. It is a great beach for a day trip, as it offers such a variety of things to do!

#2 Take a dip

A visit to Penzance has to include a dip in the famous Jubilee Lido. This Art Deco icon is a unique feature of the town and is triangular in shape overlooking the sea. The pool itself is filled with sea water and offers a host of activities alongside a good old swim! There are regular events including live musical performances, shows and sports competitions. The Lido also has a fantastic cafe serving dishes made from the finest local ingredients. Make sure you book your tickets to access the Lido, as during the peak summer months it gets full quickly and only has a capacity of 600.

#3 Outdoor activities

Penzance is fortunate enough to have not one, but two beautiful gardens, each offering something a bit different. If you want to wander amongst nature and escape to another world, it is definitely worth checking them out! Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens are a magical wonder to explore with a valley of exotic, sub-tropical and indigenous plants interposed with sculptures from renowned artists. There are surprises around every corner and some fantastic vistas over Penzance and the coast. Trengwainton Garden in contrast is a more traditional garden run by the National Trust. The estate includes a pretty stately home and you can wander in the footsteps of the former owners, who in the 1920s were avid plant hunters.

#4 Arts and Culture

Ever fancied watching a play while overlooking the sea? Well in Penzance you can do just that at the Minack Theatre. This amphitheatre is perched at the edge of a cliff and was built in this romantic style after the First World War. It overlooks Porthcurno beach and enjoys unforgettable views of the coast. You can enjoy Shakespeare here or even Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘Pirates of Penzance’, but make sure to book your tickets in advance as they sell quickly! For more culture head to Penlee House Gallery. This Victorian museum displays a range of artefacts from Neolithic tools to modern art from the Newlyn School. It is a great place to explore for a couple of hours and also houses the collection of the Antiquarian Society.

# 5 Daily excursions

Penzance is well located for exploring the stunning local area and you can easily use it as a base. The quaint fishing village of Mousehole is definitely worth a visit with its warren of cobbled alleys hiding a variety of independent shops and cafes. Enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake in one of its tearooms and take a walk around the small harbour to take in the lovely coastal views. Alternatively, if you have time you could take a trip to the Scilly Isles. It takes around 2 and half hours to reach the islands by ferry, but it is well worth it! This gorgeous archipelago is rich in flora and fauna with sea turtles, seals, dolphins, and even sharks to spot. It is also a great destination for food lovers, especially if you are a fan of freshly caught seafood.

So there you have it, our list of the top 5 things to do in and around Penzance!