West Cornwall comprises of the most southerly and westerly points of mainland Britain you’d be right to expect a region of extremes. In winter the coastline is battered by fierce waves, but in summer the waves lap calmly along the shore making west Cornwall’s seashore a playground for bathers and families. The inland moors hide prehistoric stone circles and ancient Celtic burial grounds, while west Cornwall is the heart of Cornwall’s thriving artistic communities and is full of creative art venues, superb restaurants and a lively social scene. This picturesque Cornish region is a celebration of Cornwall’s past, present and future.
Land’s End
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The views at this remote rock outcrop at both the end and the beginning of mainland Britain will simply astound you. As you wander carefully around the rocky coastline you will see seabirds nesting on the cliffs and if you are lucky dolphins and seals in the sea below. On very clear days it is possible to see the Isles of Scilly, 28 miles across the sea. Further north along the coast you can visit Geevor Tin Mine and the ancient mining villages of Pendeen and St Just. The whole area around Land’s End has been designated as a World Heritage Site.
Lizard
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The Lizard peninsula is Britain’s most southerly point and will surprise you with its jagged cliffs and rolling waves. Along the Lizard peninsula you can relax on the sandy beaches of Kynance Cove, Kennack Sands, Poldhu Cove. Mullion and Dollar Cove or why not visit the serene woodlands and freshwater lake at Loe Bar. Nearby is the fishing village of Porthleven with its very tall harbour wall, built to protect the boats from the howling westerly winds. You can carry on inland to the notable market town of Helston, famous for it’s Flora Day in May to celebrate the arrival of spring, infamous in Helston is the Blue Anchor Inn with its very strong Spingo Real Ale, brewed on the premises, don’t say we didn’t warn you! Along the east coast you will find the striking villages of Cadgwith, St Keverne and Coverack with their picturesque cottages and quaint pubs serving fine food, look out for the locally caught seafood.
Penzance
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The town of Penzance is famous for its legends of pirates, smugglers and shipwrecks but today its streets are filled with sightseers, shoppers and friendly locals. Surrounded by impressive Victorian architecture and historic pubs you will discover stylish restaurants, museums, art galleries and many interesting shops. During the summer months why not cool off in the Jubilee Pool, which holds more than a million gallons of seawater or for the less energetic, stroll along the promenade to the harbour of Newlyn and observe the fisherman landing their catches at this busy working harbour, or visit the famous Newlyn Art Gallery. Traveling east you will find the quaint village of Marazion with its views across the bay dominated by the magical castle of St Michael’s Mount, nestling on its own island.
St Ives
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As you wander down St Ives’ cobbled streets you will see why it has become a centre for artists and art lovers alike. There are countless art galleries, craft workshops and artists’ studios to visit, not forgetting the Tate St Ives Art Gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Gardens. Also there are the spectacular golden beaches of Porthminster and Porthmeor. It is said by the artists who flock to this ancient fishing port that the light here is different to anywhere else in the UK. You can take the coast path east (or the railway) to Lelant, which has a fine model village and travel beyond, past Hayle Towans for magnificent views of Godrevy Lighthouse and Carbis Bay.