Things to do in Penzance

Attractions

Explore the iconic castle and beautiful gardens of St. Michael’s Mount. A stunning tidal island linked to nearby Marazion by a man-made causeway. Admire the breath-taking views at Land’s End, one of Britain’s best loved landmarks and enjoy the cliff-top trails and the opportunity to be photographed at one of the world’s most famous signposts.

Take the plunge at the art deco Jubilee pool, and swim in the sea water lido, delighting in the stunning views across the bay. Warm up swiftly in the 35-degree geothermal salt-water pool, the first of its kind in the UK.

Culture and heritage

Find ancient stone circles and the remains of Iron Age villages between Land’s End and Penzance or explore the Geevor tin mine in nearby Pendeen, part of the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK. Choose from an array of beautiful galleries including The Exchange and the Newlyn Art Gallery, visit the Acorn, for live music and performing arts or head out of town to the world famous open-air Minack Theatre, overlooking the spectacular Porthcurno Bay.

Food and drink

Penzance has an abundance of restaurants, cafés, and bars to suit a wide variety of tastes. A foodie heaven, with freshly caught seafood, decadent cream teas and outstanding local produce means you’re in for a treat.
Soak up the atmosphere in the Turks Head, the oldest pub in Penzance and reputed to date from 1233. Enjoy a fine dining experience at the critically acclaimed Shore Restaurant or admire the fascinating collection of shipwrecked artefacts with a pint of Cornish ale and a fresh fish supper in the Admiral Benbow.

Sports and outdoors

There’s an abundance of choice for those that love the great outdoors. Take a boat trip and spot porpoises, dolphins, and occasionally minke whales in Mount’s Bay. Explore the rock pools or book a kayak or paddle boarding lesson in nearby Marazion.
Hire a bike and admire the sights on The Cornish Way cycle trail, explore the coastal paths, or marvel at the spectacular array of horticultural hotspots, including the beautiful walled gardens and kitchen garden at Trengwainton, the sub-tropical planting at Morrab Gardens or the nearby Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens with its dramatic planting and inspired works of art.

Shopping

Walk the cobbled streets, gaze at the Georgian terraces, and enjoy the boutique shops and independent retailers. Shop at the local farmer’s market for delicious Cornish produce and purchase handmade gifts at the local craft fair.

Transport

Why not travel overnight from London on the GWR Night Riviera Sleeper?
Retire to one of our modern, comfortable cabins, and wake up fresh and well rested, as you pull into Penzance station.
Take the train and connect with the St Ives Bay line to experience one of the most scenic rail journeys in Britain. Enjoy spectacular views as you sweep along the coast, past the golden sands of Hayle, Towans and Carbis Bay before arriving in St Ives.
Penzance is also the starting point for travel to the Isles of Scilly, either taking a helicopter or plane, or arriving by sea on the Scillonian III.

Discover more at LovePenzance.co.uk and DiscoverCornwall.

Where do GWR trains to Penzance arrive and depart?


GWR trains arrive and depart from Penzance station. Situated in the city centre, it is a short walk from shops, museums, galleries, gardens and the Jubilee Pool.

Which train services run direct to Penzance?


Penzance is serviced by a number of popular direct train routes from stations such as London Paddington, Reading, Cardiff Central, Bristol Temple Meads, Taunton, Exeter St Davids and Plymouth.

GWR Services include the Night Riviera Sleeper Service which operates six nights a week between London Paddington and Penzance.

When is the best time to travel to Penzance by train?


Travel off-peak to enjoy a smoother journey on our less crowded train services.

Cheaper train tickets to Penzance

Wherever you’re travelling from, you don’t need to break the bank when booking your Penzance train tickets.
Consider these money saving options when you book and you’re bound to find a cheaper option.