Penzance

PENZANCE
Cornwall’s most westerly borough, Penzance is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, peppered with geographical, historical and cultural wonders. It is a place steeped in myths and legends and has been the source of inspiration for artists, writers and poets for hundreds of years. From the perilous cliff top walks to the ancient fishing villages, the sub-tropical vegetation and Bronze and Iron Age places of mystery it is a truly magical place. But uppermost of all Town and surrounding area’s attractions is its inseparable connection with the sea. After all its notoriety as a haven for smugglers and wreckers was the inspiration for Gilbert and Sullivan’s most famous production ‘The Pirates of Penzance’.
It is no wonder then that this magnificent strip of coastline is a huge magnet for Sailing enthusiasts and Pleasure Boaters from all over Britain and beyond. Indeed Mounts Bay is celebrated across the globe for the regular Championships held there for a wide variety of classes. The harbour has around 50 (reasonably priced) berths and excellent facilities. There is also a good Sailing Club that offers Penzance calibre hospitality, tuition and all kinds of nautical services.
Mount’s Bay is also home to Penzance’s star attraction, the magnificent island castle of St. Michael’s Mount. Second only to the castle is the Minack Theatre which is has to have the most dramatic setting of any stage in the UK, perched in the cliffs above the sea. Lands End is only 10 miles away and other nearby attractions include the Tate Gallery at St.Ives, Flambards Theme Park at Helston and the Seal Sanctuary at Gweek. The reputation of the beaches in around the Peninsula are the stuff of holiday history and are by far the main reason so many people flock the area each year.
The town itself has a great reputation for its tradition of friendly welcomes; a tradition it is most proud of. It also boasts the very best in Cornish food, drink and entertainment with a great choice of bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants. During the long summer days there is nothing quite like strolling round the town centre soaking up the atmosphere which can only be described as a relaxed bustle. So whatever you’re looking for from a holiday by the seaside you’d actually be hard pushed to top a visit to Penzance.