Things to do in West Cornwall

Look no further than this carefully crafted guide for an idea on the best things to do in West Cornwall.

Brimming with ancient heritage and rocky, wild natural scenery, West Cornwall is an unforgettable holiday location for those who enjoy exploring captivating landscapes steeped in history.

Read on to discover the best things to do in West Cornwall…

The area is home to both Land’s End and the stunning Lizard Peninsula – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty dotted with smugglers coves, unique beaches, small fishing communities and an abundance of flora and fauna.

Walk along the many footpaths – both amid the inland heathland and along the coastline – and discover historic mining settlements, ancient Iron Age sites, fishing villages and more modern harbour towns. If cultural heritage is what you’re looking for, don’t miss St Michael’s Mount – a medieval castle set on its own island just off the coast of the small town of Marazion.

As with much of Cornwall, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy gorgeous sandy beaches and the activities that come with them, including surfing and boat trips. Visit the towns and villages of the area, including Penzance and St Ives, and discover a wealth of traditional Cornish pubs, plus restaurants and cafes with an artistic atmosphere.

Places not to miss

Not sure where you want to visit while you stay in West Cornwall? Here are some of our favourite places to spend time in.

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Helston

If you’re visiting in May, a trip to see Helston’s ‘Flora Day’ celebrations is a must. Other than this, the town is historically picturesque: cobbled streets and ‘kennels’ running down the sides of streets, plus plenty of historical attractions. For families, the nearby Flambards theme park promises a great day out.

Marazion

One of the biggest attractions of this small town is the stunning view it offers of nearby St Michael’s Mount – just a short walk across the beach from the town. The beach itself is a long stretch of golden sand with a view that stretches for miles along the coast.

Hayle

If you enjoy outdoor activities, Hayle is the perfect town to base your holiday in West Cornwall. Godrevy Head is a particularly popular walking spot, and the wild countryside that surrounds the town is covered in well-maintained footpaths. The sandy 3 mile stretch of beach caters for all tastes – from a family-friendly day out building sandcastles to sailing and surfing.

Penzance

The town of Penzance, situated on Mounts Bay, prides itself on its mild climate. A visit to Chapel Street is a must for fans of traditional pubs, while elsewhere in the town shops, galleries, museums and gourmet restaurants provide enough entertainment for rainy days.

See our things to do in Cornwall guide for even more holiday inspiration.