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This part of the coastline from St Mawes around Lands End to Portreath offers immense variation in character. Falmouth, one of the worlds largest natural deep harbours, is home to the National Maritime Museum and working around Falmouth Bay  to the Lizard the Helford River, one of the worlds beauty spots, provides very pretty wooded creeks and sub tropical gardens. The Lizard Peninsula, the most southerly point in the UK, boasts countryside which has been least affected by the passing of years with its population mainly concentrated on the old fishing villages tucked into the cliffs. Mounts Bay offers a wide selection of sandy sheltered beaches as well as St Michaels Mount and the seaside town of Penzance with its ferry and helicopter service to the Isles of Scilly. Penwith Peninsula has some of the most dramatic coastline in the country as well as the haunting ruins of Cornwall’s mining industry as evidenced by the old engine houses which worked mines with such names as Ding Dong and Wheal Prosper. Finally St Ives needs no introduction to anyone and with its long association with the artistic world is home to the Tate Gallery of the West. Truly a land of legend and dreams.
Things to Do in the West Cornwall area...

  • Come on an exhilarating wildlife watching boat trip from Penzance Harbour in West Cornwall aboard our exciting jet RIB `Shearwater`. Book one of our exclusive sea safaris and join us in search of seals, seabirds, dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks and more along the stunning Cornish coastline.

  • walkitcornwall is a new venture arising out of the sheer pleasure we get from walking. The philosophy behind setting up walkitcornwall came from the understanding that by taking time to recognise the geology, flora and both social and natural history along the journey, it heightens the overall pleasure one gets from a walk.

  • The Bike Barn, Cornwall, provides cycle hire, tuition, sales and repairs and is open all year round. Ride across England in a day from The Bike Barn, down the Coast to Coast trail, which runs for 11 miles, almost entirely off road, from the lovely coastal village of Portreath to Devoran, alongside the stunning Restronguet Creek.

  • Global Boarders provides luxury Cornwall surfing holidays, Corporate surfing days, Family Surfing Holidays, School Surf Trips and unique Cornwall Surf Experience packages. Combining the finest surf locations in Cornwall, the highest quality of instruction, customer service, accommodation and food, Global Boarders' Surfing Holidays in Cornwall will leave you with a feel good factor that will be with you long after your holiday is over.

  • The BLUE POINTER operates from the beautiful and sheltered Helford River in West Cornwall within one and a half hours of over 100 wrecks and some of the best reefs Cornwall has to offer. Catering for groups of any experience, on the BLUE POINTER they organise the day's fishing to suit your requirements. Whether you want to drift for big pollack and cod, anchor for eels and ling, live-bait for big bass or fish the inshore reefs and holes to add new species to your catch list, they will do our utmost to put you on the fish.

  • Country Skittles is a fantastic, fun-filled family venue in the heart of beautiful West Cornwall. It's warm, friendly and absolutely great fun!

  • The Breage & Germoe Bridleways Association was started in January 2005 in response to the closure of one of the parishes historical ridden routes.

  • Explore Carwinion Gardens on foot and explore the safe and sheltered Helford River by “open” & “sit on top” tandem kayak with several stops along the way to take in the sights, history and splendor of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Falmouth Cornwall. This is a truly “eco aware” and safe way of seeing this beautiful area for active families and individuals that want an occasion to remember.

  • Local cinema in Penzance.

  • Local cinema in St. Ives

  • Local cinema in Helston.

  • Local cinema in Falmouth.

  • Leisure pool with wave machine, river ride and flume, fitness centre, fitness suite.

  • A 25 metre ultra violet swimming pool, newly refurbished fitness studio and free weights room, floodlit multi use games area (MUGA), ideal for football and netball, Sports hall, suitable for badminton, volleyball, basketball, netball and more.

  • 25 metre competition standard swimming pool with spectator seating, a learner pool, water flume, sports hall, fitness gym, health suite, dance and aerobic studio, cafeteria, creche, meeting rooms, outdoor football pitch.

  • Main pool and children's pool, fully air conditioned gym and studio and sports cafe.

  • With all these attractions and the awars winning gardens as well as other special events throughout the season, Flambards can confidently calim to be not just a great day out but to be 'The Best Day of the Week!'

  • Lessons, country hacks and beaches rides all tailored to suit your needs in spectacular surroundings - what a perfect way to spend an afternoon with the family.

  • Marine wildlife and ocean tours by expert guides around the most southern points of Britain, at Land's End and the Lizard Peninsulas, to see dolphins, whales, and basking sharks in their natural wilderness. Or if you feel more at home on dry land, then an overland adventure to see some spectacular birds and beautiful wildlife may be for you.

  • See these historic vessels dotted around ports and harbours in Conrwall and at certain times even set sail with them.

  • Why not take to horseback to experience the rural way of life on your trip to Cornwall, an experience for all to remember. This friendly, family run yard offers rides to suit all abilities and ages, from the experienced horseman to beginners.

Eating out in the West Cornwall area...

  • onshore will always try and use fresh local & organic ingredients wherever possible. Our teas & coffees are also Fairtrade & organic meaning that they follow strict organic growing & sustainability standards that protect local eco-systems & wildlife.

  • The Mermaid Seafood Restaurant has a well earned reputation as being one of the finest seafood restaurants in Cornwall. Fish comes straight from the quay-with Lobsters a specialty in the summer months.

    At the Mermaid we feel we offer only the finest and freshest seafood which is only apt as we are located at the top of “Fish Street” approx 100 meters from the sea (assuming the tide is in). Also a selection of locally farmed Meat and poultry are available on the menu for the non fishy eaters amongst you.

  • Nestled beneath the steep slopes of Porthminster Point, right on the beach with unbeatable and uninterrupted views across St Ives Bay to Godrevy Lighthouse. Now open all year round for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
    www.portminstercafe.co.uk

  • The Loft is situated in the heart of old St Ives’ artists’ quarter, overlooking St Ives Bay and Godrevy Lighthouse.
    The menu offers mouthwatering dishes prepared by our experienced locally respected chef using the best produce our beautiful county has to offer, including fresh fish and seafood. However, our carnivorous and vegetarian guests will not be disappointed!

  • The Wave Restaurant has held an AA rosette for 5 consecutive years and is a member of the Cornish Accredited Restuarants. The modern Mediterranean menu and specials boards reflect the best in Cornish produce and only St. Ives suppliers are used where possible.

  • There is nothing nicer than eating delicious genuine Italian food outside in the glorious Cornish sunshine and our restaurant in St. Ives, overlooking the quaint meandering streets of the legendary fishing town.
    Want to take your food out? Not a problem!
    Call in for a menu and then you can phone your order through. We will ensure you then have the freshest piping hot food ready for you to collect and enjoy in your own surroundings. Also in Hayle and Newlyn.

  • On a daily basis (except being closed on Tuesdays) The Waymarker will be serving a range of light refreshments. NOW serving Sunday roast dinners too!

  • When you visit the Pandora, it’s easy to forget you’re in the 21st century. Its spectacular setting on the edge of Restronguet Creek is timeless. Parts of the Inn date back to the 13th Century and, with its flagstone floors, low-beamed ceilings and thatched roof it’s not difficult to believe that little has changed since that time.
    Combine this with a spectacular setting, roaring log fires and a warm welcome from your hosts and a trip to the Pandora is a must.


  • Sat on Falmouth's famous Gyllyngvase beach, over looked by the imposing Pendennis castle with fantastic views of the lizard peninsula is the Gylly beach cafe.

    This family run award winning cafe is simply striving to serve the best locally sourced food in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

  • Falmouth's premier bar and brasserie. Harvey's is committed to providing honest food and a no nonsense menu, driven by British produce.
    Drop in for breakfast, lunch, tapas  or dinner, the menu is always amazing, chock full of fresh fish and delicious, sumptuous platters, made from the finest sourced ingredients.

  • The restaurant is close to the harbour and a stones throw away from the Maritime Museum.
    The contemporary, modern feel of the restaurant and a menu built around a fusion of European and Asian food styles combine to create a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

  • Ratho Wine Bar and Restaurant is a hidden gem in the very heart of Falmouth...Easy to miss but hard to forget...

    Tucked away above The Falmouth Bookseller, Ratho provides some of the finest dining in the South West, with local seafood, beautiful Cornish meat, game and fine vegetarian options all on a menu that changes almost daily.

  • Around the corner from the National Maritime Museum lies a cracking seafood restaurant that is something of an institution in Falmouth.
    Award winning chef Tony uses his extensive international cooking experience to tempt with dishes such as fillets of sea bass with a champagne, caviar and crème fraiche sauce, lobster and tiger prawn linguine, roast duck breast with glazed beetroot, star anise and cabernet sauvignon reduction.
    Most of everything is made on the premises and all the fish and meat are sourced locally with organic foods featuring widely.

  • The Pirate Inn in Penzance is a very popular pub for locals and visitors alike! We have a fabulous grassed garden area where families with children can eat during those long, warm, summer days and evenings, safe in the knowledge that the kids can play to their heart's content.
    We are also dog friendly, so why not bring your faithful friend along to enjoy a lovely drink or meal with us!

  • Situated on the bridge at Newlyn is our dedicated fish restaurant. Offering Shellfish Platters, Fish Pies, Mussels, Bisques and much more including: daily specials of fish from the Market here in Newlyn. All cooked simply in our small open kitchen.

  • Here at Poolside Indulgence we pride ourselves on serving good quality, affordable food in the most beautiful of surroundings.  The café overlooks the fabulous Jubilee Pool, one of the best preserved lidos in the country, and from the top terraces you can enjoy spectacular views across the bay to St. Michaels Mount.

  • The bakehouse and steakhouse, situated in its own flower and palm filled courtyard just off Chapel Street, Penzance. Whether it’s a business lunch, a special occasion, an informal get together with friends or just a good cup of coffee, pop in and you can be assured of a warm welcome.

  • We serve a great range of freshly cooked bar meals using local Cornish produce. We offer a traditional Sunday lunch every week with a range of roasts. We also have themed evenings such as our Pie Night and occasional BBQ's.

  • The Chapel Street Brasserie and Wine Bar in the heart of historic Penzance offers a new style of French wine bar and dining to the far south west! In a modern, relaxed and comfortable setting you can enjoy modern, simple but delicious food with a French twist made with only the best Cornish ingredients.

  • The menu is constantly changing to accommodate the daily catches and seasonal variations. The fish dishes have been created drawing on Chef Martin Brightwell’s travels and dining experiences. They offer some unique and creative taste experiences.
    The Lugger prepares and cooks all its dishes on the premises. Martin has created a new menu which pays respect to the local seasonal produce which is used.

  • Blue Haze restaurant is situated in the beautiful setting of Porthleven. This great little Restaurant is a fantastic dining experience and a perfect place to eat in the little harbour village. Regularly appearing in local press and Cornish magazines, Blue Haze is quite simply one of Porthleven and Cornwalls Premier restaurants and eating locations.

  • The Trewellard Meadery now promised Good Food, Reasonably priced and cooked in the old fashioned way. The atmosphere is excellent and all the family will love it!

  • We have worked hard with our suppliers to provide you with local Cornish food and drink to complement the ambience of this 600 year old pub. We specialise in providing fresh sea food and fish and pride ourselves in the short time it takes from fishing boat to table!  Often we serve lobster at lunchtime that has been landed that morning in nearby Cadgwith Cove.

    Daily Specials menu with catch of the day. We're a family pub - we do half portions for the children and welcome dogs too!

  • Kynance Cafe and Cottage offer one of the best locations in Cornwall, set in the beautiful Kynance Cove a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

    The cafe nestles above the cove and makes a perfect place to stop and sample the cornish pasties, fresh sandwiches and baguettes, not to mention the mouth watering home made cakes and cream teas.

     

  • Situated on one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches, The Beach combines breathtaking scenery with great food. Our Head Chef Justin Ashton and his talented team offer a daily menu taking advantage of seasonal local produce and catches where possible. This west facing restaurant with its exceptional architectural design boasts a large terrace on which you can relax and enjoy stunning sunsets over this rugged and unspoilt bay.

  • An informal, friendly service and atmosphere coupled with fantastic, locally sourced food and tempting wine list.

  • A casual and relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a mid morning coffee or a tasty locally sourced evening meal.

  • Fresh fish doesn't get much better than this, simply choose your local fish or seafood from our refridgerated display cabinets, tell us how you would like it cooked, then add your choice of sauce, potatoes, salad and vegetables.

  • A well established restaurant in the heart of St Ives serving traditional Italian food and a selection of fresh local fish and seafood.

  • With stunning views across Falmouth Bay, The Cove is in the perfect location, offering great food and good service, ideal for a spot of lunch or a romantic evening meal.

  • Experience the taste of Cornish mead if you dare, deliverable to your door and a fantastic refreshment for BBQs, or why not take a trip to one of the local meaderies around the county, a sure treat with medieval style banqueting in candlelight, served by barefoot wenches.

  • Serving great food, with fresh, local fish and seafood on the menu, in stylish surroundings with magnificent views across Mount's Bay, The Bay is the perfect place for a romantic evening out.

Places to Visit in the West Cornwall area...

  • Travel to the Isles of Scilly, with Skybus flights from Southampton, Bristol, Exeter, Newquay or Land's End, Or, Scillonian III sailings from Penzance. See the website for Schedules, Special Offers, Booking Online and more.

  • An absolute must see, The Minack Theatre is a great place to visit all year round. From 1931 until she died in 1983 the Minack Theatre was planned, built and financed by one determined woman - Rowena Cade.

  • Discover Trebah, a beautiful sub-tropical paradise with a stunning coastal backdrop. Explore under canopies bursting with exotic blooms and follow vibrant tunnesl of colour that cascade down to our very own secluded beach on the Helford River. Visit our award-winning Visitor Centre and Planters Cafe for home made, seasonal food. Open daily from 10am.

  • Land's End is one of Britain's best loved landmarks, famous for its unique location, natural beauty and stunning scenery.

  • Located on the historic site of one of the largest preserved mine sites in the country, housed in 2 acres of listed building, Geevor's outstanding collections tell the story of Cornwall's industrial mining past.

  • Part of Cornwall and West Devon Mining World Heritage Site. See the famous Levant Engine that has been restored after 60 years by the 'Greasey Gang' volunteers.

  • Discover a medieval castle, a sub-tropical paradise and a close knit island community. Stray from the mainland on foot or by boat and get up close to the beguiling beauty of the castle-topped isle standing proud in Mount's Bay.

  • All the work in the Round House and Capstan Gallery is from Cornwall, by local artists who draw their inspiration from the unique location and history of this isolated part of Great Britain.

  • Built in 1865 as a gracious Victorian home, Penlee House has been converted to crear a first class gallery and museum set within an attractive park.

  • A unique feature of a visit to Porthcurno Telegraph Museum is the opportunity to enter the underground telegraph station and see original equipment actually working, an indepth coverage of the subject.

  • With plants from around the globe scattered throughout this 10-hectare (25 acre) garden, there is something to inspire around every corner.

  • Visiting the Barbara Hepwoth Museum and Sculpure Garden is a unique experience, offering a remarkable insight into the work and outlook of one of Britain's most important twentieth century artists. Sculptures in bronze, stone and wood are on display in the museum and garden, along with paintings, drawings and archive material.

  • Beautiful, romantic, historic house and garden, where time has stood still giving the house, garden and surrounding estate buildings a haunting air of antiquity and peace.

  • Discover the war time secrets of Cornwall's greatest fortress. Explore centuries of war time history or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. In its superb coastal setting, Pendennis offers magnificent views of Falmouth and the Fal Estuary.

  • Lose yourself in the three valleys of Glendurgan Garden- full of fun, natural beauty and amazing plants.

  • This modern garden was created within shlter belts 200 years ago. It is constantly evolving, with new planting and fresh ideas.

  • In a spectacular cliff-edge position, this unique Bronze Age tomb had a long and complex history as a sacred site. Seen as excavated in 1878 by Cornish antiquarian William Borlase.

  • Among the best preserved ancient villages in the South-West, occupied from Iron Age until late Roman times. It includes the foundations of stone houses, and an intriguing 'fogou' underground passage.

  • This Iron Age settlement was originally occupied almost 2,000 years ago. The village consisted of stone-walled homesteads known as 'courtyard houses', found only on the Land's End peninsula and the Isles of Scilly. The houses line a 'village street', and each had an open central courtyard surrounded by a number of thatched rooms. There are also the remains of an enigmatic 'fogou' underground passage.

  • Roofed and walled in stone, this complex of passages is the largest and best-preserved of several mysterious underground tunnels associated with Cornish Iron Age settlements. The purpose of such 'fogous' - a Cornish-language word meaning 'cave' - is unknown. Refuges, storage chambers or ritual shrines have all been suggested.

  • A Neolithic or early Bronze Age chambered tomb with an entrance passage, walled and roofed with stone slabs, leading into the central chamber.

  • Poldark is one of Cornwall’s most important heritage sites. Situated in the picturesque Wendron Valley, now a World Heritage Site, once the scene of intense industrial activity, the site’s attractive surroundings and gardens belie its industrial past.
    In addition to its important heritage the site has a wide range of activities - search the Gemsands for diamonds and precious gemstones - pan for real alluvial gold - throw a pot at the potter's wheel - make a candle - try your hand at woodturning - wander through the museum - watch the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site video - make your own souvenir in the sand of Cornwall - have a snack in the Poldark Cafe - visit the Mine Shop for a range of Poldark goods.

  • Mullion Gallery is located ‘out in the sticks (as one customer called it!) - in the village of Mullion in Cornwall and features the work of over 80 artists and craftspeople living and working on The Lizard Peninsula.
    ww.mulliongallery.supanet.com

  • With the help of a generous grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Trinity House has renovated the Engine Room at Lizard Lighthouse, retaining some of the old engines. It now also features new exhibition material, an audio visual room and a number of interactive displays.


  • A fine manor house with beautiful gardens and quaint cafe, serving homemade cakes and hot winter soups.

  • One of the most beautiful and unspoilt gardens in the county and the true jungle of Cornwall, Penjerrick Gardens offers the perfect place to relax.

  • This rescue and rehabilitation sanctury, saves a number of seal pups each season and is an ideal family day out, with a real hands on experience to remember. The sanctury is also home to more furry friends that need love and attention too, such as horses, goats, sheeps and otters.

  • For a relaxing day out, visit Mullion meadows to enjoy the tranquil surroundings washed down by a hot cup of tea and homemade cake.

  • Ceramic, jewellery, paintings and sculpture, the Glasshouse Gallery boasts an impressive collection from local artists.

  • Seascapes, blown glasswork, wood and ceramic, the Gallery on the Square has much to offer from many well known local artists.

  • Considered the oldest garden in Conrwall, Enys provides a relaxing experience surrounded by flourishing and exotic plants that thrive due to the micro climate generated by the Gulf Stream.

  • Situated on the Lizard peninsula, Bonython offers superb gardens with contemporary water features, small lakes, an apple orchard and vast parkland to explore.

  • A wide range of paintings, prints, ceramics and jewellery from artists far and wide.

Shopping in the West Cornwall area...

  • A popular market set right in the heart of Falmouth on the traffic free Moor area. Fresh produce ranging from meats, fish and dairy to breads, cakes, nuts and spices.

  • At the market you can find a wide range of local food to meet your needs, including meats, vegetables and baked goods – depending on who trades on a particular day and what is in season.

  • Trenance Chocolate's are handmade in Cornwall using the finest Belgian chocolate - the perfect romantic surprise for your holiday in Cornwall!

  • A family run business, producing a range of handmade Chutneys, Marmalades and Jams, using locally sourced quality ingredients.

  • Providing the freshest Cornish fish for over 25 years, this family run company can deliver the finest catches of the day direct to the door of your holiday home.

  • Proud producers of award winning produce, all made by hand using locally sourced, quality ingredients to create tantilising flavours to enjoy. Available from local farm shops, deli's and markets throughout Cornwall or at our tea rooms Gunwalloe, near Helston.

  • Gentle pasturisation of the freshly pressed apples is what gives Helford Creek Apple juice its unique flavour and what better way to wash down your breakfast? Cyder is also available from this fine local producer and can be delivered right to your door.

  • Producing award winning fish since 1979, in a sustainable and environmentally conscious manner.

  • One of the smallest commercial smokehouses, producing quality cured and smoked salmon, cheese, duck, chicken and game, why not visit the deli and pick something up for dinner, or order online and get it delivered to the door of your holiday cottage.

  • Stocking local beef, lamb, pork and chicken, along with fruit and vegetables and other local produce such as pies, cakes and ice cream, Cornish Camels is the ideal place to stop off and stock up.

  • An independant retailer offering a selection of wines, fizz, beer and spirits from around the world at competitive prices, visit the store and stock up, or have it delivered straight to your door.

Useful Links

  • Friendly and reliable car hire, with local delivery and competitive prices.

  • A family run business, providing competitive prices for easy and reliable car hire for your Cornish holiday.

  • The longest running helicopter service from the mainland to the Isles of Scilly, ideal for a Scillies escape whether for a day or a week.

  • Running 24 hours a day 7 days a week, April to October, the Aquacab water-taxi service can collect from many waterside locations on the Fal from Truro down to Falmouth and St Mawes. We offer an on-demand service along side a timetabled shuttle with our high-powered, fully equipped covered launch which has a capacity of 12 passengers.

  • With over 50 years experience in the motor trade, this family run business provides reliable and friendly car hire at competitive prices, ideal for your visit to Cornwall.

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Things to do in West Cornwall

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