Penzance
With press coverage from 'The Guardian' to 'The New York Times' and voted the UK’s Great Town 2020, Penzance has a lively, independent spirit and is brim full of things to do, see and experience.
Penzance is a highly distinctive Cornish location. Its position in the arc of Mount's Bay, dominated by the island of St Michael’s Mount, is one of the UK’s most beautiful, whilst at the same time it remains an unspoilt working town.
A great town to explore, your eyes are constantly being drawn to wonderful maritime views. There are sub tropical gardens and some seriously impressive architecture hinting at PZ’s past as a wealthy Georgian port and market town.
There is a plethora of offers to delight the taste buds. There are shops selling locally produced artisan breads, cheeses, chocolate or fresh seafood. Hot pasties beckon on every corner and there are some very highly rated restaurants too. The Tolcarne Inn and The Shore, to name just two are both attracting the critic’s approval. Or if you prefer you can enjoy first class fish and chips on Cornwall’s only seaside promenade.
The town is also at the heart of a vibrant West Cornwall creative cluster and there are numerous galleries and studios here, as well as in nearby Newlyn and Mousehole to explore and buy artwork.
The Penwith peninsula
The wider Penwith peninsula is one of the most picturesque and unspoilt destinations in the country. Popular for its unrivalled beaches and diverse scenery, it also offers exotic gardens, a rich art history and vibrant culture, not to mention the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site (a must-see for any self-respecting Poldark fan).
A few miles off Land’s End are the tiny cluster of islands that form the Isles of Scilly. A veritable island paradise, Scilly embraces a refreshingly laid-back way of life. Here you’ll find white sand beaches, super-local food and drink, and miles of pathways to explore on foot, bike or even horseback. Travel there from Penzance on the Scillonian ferry, which docks just a short stroll from Chapel House.
Cornwall
Located in the far west of Britain and virtually surrounded by the sea, Cornwall has a magnificent coastline stretching almost 300 miles. The region contains the British mainland’s southernmost point, the Lizard, and one of its most westerly points, Land's End.
Cornwall isn’t just about its coast, however. The uplands of Bodmin are remote and craggy, providing spectacular scenery, while nearby is the famous Eden Project. The region is also famed for its creative community, with opportunities to view and buy works of real quality.