Tourist Information

THE NATIONAL TRUST

As well as owning hundreds of miles of Cornwall's breathtaking coastline, The National Trust has many beautiful and unique properties and gardens in the county. For detailed information of their properties and gardens in Cornwall log on to their site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

TRENGWAINTON GARDEN, (National Trust), Penzance

A sheltered garden with many unusual and rare sub-tropical plants. Magnificent views of St Michaels Mount and The Lizard. Shop & tea-room. Tel: 01736 363148. From Penzance - accessible by bus - First 17 A/B St Ives to St Just.

GODOLPHIN HOUSE, (National Trust)

An ancient & atmospheric house with delightful medieval gardens. Wonderful views over West Penwith from Godolphin Hill. Tel: 01736 763194 www.godolphin@nationaltrust.org.uk

THE EDEN PROJECT, St Austell

The 8th Wonder of the World and home to the world's largest greenhouse. Two gigantic geodesic conservatories - one a majestic rainforest, the other is host to the fruits and flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California.

Outside the extensive grounds are landscaped and produce tea, lavender, sunflowers and hemp. There are plans for a future desert conservatory. There is a Cafe and facilities for the disabled. Tel: 01726 811911 From Penzance - accessible by train. www.edenproject.com

ST MICHAELS MOUNT (National Trust) Marazion, near Penzance

The jewel in Cornwall's crown, a fairytale island with an exotic garden, ancient harbour, a church and a medieval castle. Access from Marazion is by foot along the causeway, or by ferry at high water. Tel: 01736 710507 for general enquiries & tide times. From Penzance - accessible by bus. www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk

LANDS END

The most westerly point in mainland Britain. Rugged wave lashed cliffs and stunning views. Longships Lighthouse and Wolf Rock are off shore and the Isles of Scilly in the distance. Exhibitions, craft and gift shops. Hotel and restaurant. From Penzance - accessible by bus.
www.landsend-landmark.co.uk

THE MINACK THEATRE, Porthcurno, Penzance

A uniquely situated open-air theatre on the cliffs at Porthcurno, near Lands End. Performances take place most evenings and some afternoon matinees. The Rowena Cade Exhibition Centre tells the story of its creation. Accessible by Western Greyhound bus No 504. No service on Sunday. Box Office - Tel: 01736 810181
www.minack.com

PENZANCE

Penzance is a delightful market town which stands on the south coast on the shores of Mount's Bay - it grew from a small fishing village to outrival its neighbours. It has enormous appeal with its charming shopping streets, sub-tropical gardens, superb esplanade and busy working harbour. With St Michael's Mount standing just across the bay it is an ideal centre from which to explore West Cornwall. You are never more than ten miles from the other popular holiday towns, the top beaches, and the "hidden" corners of the peninsula. The wonderful vista of Mount's Bay from the long Promenade is a classic attraction for the holidaymaker, with a view past Marazion to the Goonhilly Aerial Dishes, and to the Lizard. The Penzance Town Trail is worth exploring & a copy of it can be picked up in the Tourist Office located near train staion.

MOUSEHOLE

The picturesque fishing village of Mousehole (pronounced Mowzel) lies on the western edge of Mount's Bay, approximately two miles south of Newlyn. It was considered to be of significantly more maritime importance than either Penzance or Newlyn in the 13^th and 14^th centuries. Most of the original village was destroyed by a Spanish raiding party in 1595. A unique surviving building is the Elizabethan Keigwin Arms in the centre of the town. The traditions of Mousehole are maintained by the popular Mousehole Male Voice Choir and by a number of customs and festivals. Famous for its Christmas lights. From Penzance - accessible by bus (Western Greyhound No 504 - no service on Sunday).

ST IVES

From narrow cobbled streets to beautiful creations in galleries and craft shops...to stunning and inspiring art in the Tate St Ives exhibitions...to an international centre for the arts, discover the bright and shining southwest tip of Cornwall. The ancient town of St Ives nestles amongst rich, magnificent coastal scenery which surrounds you with the clearest air, the cleanest beaches and scented, sub-tropical gardens. Excellent restaurants. Accessible from Penzance by train or bus.

BEACHES & COVES

The Penwith district is the most western part of Cornwall. The area has some of the country's most beautiful beaches & coves with miles of sand at Mounts Bay in the South and Hayle Sands on the North Coast. There are a number of secluded coves such as Porthcurno & Porth Chapel in the far west. There are excellent surfing opportunites at Sennen Cove, Gwenver, Hayle & Porthmeor Beach in St Ives. The nearest beaches to Penzance are located in Mount's Bay at Marazion, Eastern Green & Long Rock.

COASTAL WALKS

The entire coast of Cornwall is accessible via the coastal path. The views are magnificent, the cliffs supreme, wild flowers are in abundance, and hidden sandy coves an unexpected delight. Some parts may be rocky or steep but every step is worthwhile.

FLAMBARDS VILLAGE, Helston

The ultimate family day out - something for everyone Hornet Rollercoaster, Formula circuit, Space Orbiters, Log Flume Or wander through the twisting streets and alleyways of the lamp-lit Victorian Street....and much much more! Tel: 01326 564093 From Penzance - Flambards Bus No 2A (First)www.flambards.co.uk

ISLES OF SCILLY

Locally known as The Scillies, this archipelago is situated approximately 25 miles from Lands End. Accessed via Penzance or Lands End Airport by helicopter, boat or aeroplane. The Scillies is a truly subtropical paradise. The Scillies offer crystal clear seas, golden beaches and the magnificent Tresco Gardens. www.tresco.co.uk

Getting There:

Helicopter, Penzance - www.islesofscillyhelicopter.com

Ferry, Penzance Quay - www.scillonian.co.uk Tel: 0845 710555

Skybus: Lands End Airport, St Just - www.ios-travel.co.uk

PARADISE PARK, Hayle

Paradise Park is home to the 'World Parrot Trust'. First prize winners in BBC Wildlife Magazine 'Zoo Conservation Awards for Excellence'. Successfully bred Cornwall's national bird, The Chough, and re-introduced it to the wild. Beautiful birds, otters and squirrels. Superb gardens and plenty of fun for children. Tel: 01736 751020 From Penzance to Hayle Bus No 18 (First)
www.paradisepark.org.uk

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM, Falmouth

£21 Million Attraction - Housed in an award winning building on the Falmouth harbour-side, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall transports you into the world of small boats and Cornish maritime history. From Penzance to Falmouth Bus No 2 (First)www.nmmc.co.uk

MARINE DISCOVERY, Penzance

Join one of our exciting sea safaris along Cornwall's stunning coastline and have the chance to see dolphins, porpoises, sea birds, seals & basking sharks. Tel: 01736 874907 Email: info@marinediscovery.co.uk www.marinediscovery.co.uk

GEEVOR TIN MINE, Pendeen nr St Just

The largest preserved mining site in the UK.
In the far west of Cornwall, on the Atlantic Coast.
Here Cornwall's mining history comes to life
Until 1990 Geevor was a working mine, now a museum, with many surface buildings, a guided underground tour through 18th / 19th century workings, a shop and a cafe. From Penzance - Pendeen by bus. Tel: 01736 788662

POLDARK MINE, Wendron, Helston

Unique PREHISTORIC evidence of working for alluvial tin, the site of the first recorded TIN STAMPS in the Duchy (1493) and its 18th century TIN MINE makes Poldark 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. Tel: 01326 573173 www.poldark-mine.co.uk

HARRYS SAFARI, Penzance

Join Harry Glasson on a guided trip around West Cornwall and share his enthusiasm, love & knowledge of the area. His 8 seater mini bus departs throughout the summer months from Penzance. Tel: 01736 711427 Email: harrysafariukaol.co.uk

TATE GALLERY, St Ives

Tate St Ives presents modern and contemporary art, often created in or associated with Cornwall. Its location in St Ives, with dramatic views across the town and harbour to the east and Porthmeor Beach to the north, provides a unique opportunity to view work in the surroundings in which, in many cases, it was actually created.   Accessible by train or bus from Penzance. Tel: 01736 796226

PENLEE HOUSE & GARDENS, Penzance

Penlee House Gallery & Museum is an elegant gallery set within a Victorian house and park. Changing exhibitions mainly feature famous 'Newlyn School' and Lamorna Group artists (1880-1930).
Newlyn School artists include Stanhope and Elizabeth Forbes, Walter Langley, Harold Harvey and Norman Garstin (see Newlyn Artists Database link),
while the Lamorna Group includes Laura Knight,
'Lamorna' Birch and Alfred Munnings. Walking distance.Tel: 01736 363625 www.penleehouse.org.uk

MORRAB GARDENS, Penzance

Morrab Gardens, situated in the middle of Penzance on a 3 acre site,  is well known for its array of sub-tropical plants. Amongst the fine examples of tender and rare plants are huge examples of the ubiquitous cordyline (or Cornish palm), tree ferns, banana plants and Japanese Bitter Orange. Walking distance.

HALL FOR CORNWALL, Truro

Hall for Cornwall is a theatre in Truro. It is the largest theatre in Cornwall offering a mix of live theatre shows from musicals, children's shows, gigs, drama, plays and music shows.  From Penzance by bus or train. Box Office: 01782 262466 www.hallforcornwall.co.uk

THE ACORN THEATRE, Penzance

The Acorn Arts Centre is a small, independently run arts venue with charitable status, in the heart of Penzance, Cornwall. Being an intimate and friendly venue has meant that it has become highly regarded by visiting artists and audiences alike. By presenting the best of small scale arts and entertainment the Acorn Arts Centre is one of the longest running venues in Cornwall. Walking distance. Box Office: 01736 365520 www.acornartscentre.co.uk

Cornish Events Calendar 2010

5 March - St Piran's Day

Events held throughout the county to commemorate St.Piran, the patron saint of tin mining. The modern observance of St Piran's day as a national symbol of the people of Cornwall started in the late 19th and early 20th century when Celtic revivalists sought to provide the people of Cornwall with a national day not unlike those observed in other nations. Since the 1950s, the celebration has become increasingly observed.

7 March - St Piran's Play

At Perran Sands, Perranporth.

1 - 11 April - St Endellion Easter Festival

World-class classical music festival at St.Endellion, near Port Isaac.

2 April - 19 September - Minack Theatre Summer season

Cornwall’s open air theatre in spectacular surroundings at Porthcurno. Pack a picnic and see a show.

24 April - Trevithick Day, Camborne

Trevithick Day is an annual celebration of the heritage of the Camborne area, with the focus on Richard Trevithick, pioneer of high pressure steam - power. This takes the form of a community festival of free entertainment in the streets of Camborne.

1 May - Padstow 'Obby Oss

The first day of May is Obby Oss day in Padstow. The Day celebrates the Celtic festival of Beltane - The spring festival dedicated to the return of the Celtic sun god Bel, that causes the crops to grow and the hours of daylight to lengthen. The town is decked with flags, greenery and flowers.

8 May - Helston Flora Day

You'll find Helston town decorated with bluebells, gorse, laurel leaves and colourful flags. Dancing begins at 7.00 am, and at 8.30 there's the mummers' play known as the Hal-an-Tow, at several venues throughout the town. Watch St George and St Michael slay the Dragon and the Devil.

13 - 22 May - Du Maurier Festival Of Arts & Literature

The Daphne du Maurier Festival of Arts and Literature takes place in and around the novelist's home town of Fowey in Cornwall and attracts an array of writers, performers and celebrities.

28 - 31 May - Run to the Sun

Hundreds of classic cars head to Newquay, Cornwall for the car, music and comedy weekend which has been going for 22 years. There are live bands, DJs and comedy actys to keep you entertained all weekend. Held at Trevelgue, Newquay.

29 May - 6 June - Cornwall Open Studios

Opportunity to visit artists’ studios throughout Cornwall and to see them at work and purchase their wares. Creative Skills produce a booklet detailing open studios.

28 May - 6 June - Fal River Festival

The festival, which was established in 2006, is celebration of life on the river Fal and includes a wide range of cultural and sports events.

12 June - Murdoch Day, Redruth

Redruth's annual celebration remembers its famous former resident William Murdoch and his numerous inventions. Street Entertainment, Children's Parade, Street Market and Fair.

18 - 20 June - 3 Wishes Faery Fest

Fairy-themed arts festival taking place at Colliford Lake Park on Bodmin Moor.

19 - 27 June - Polperro Festival

Community celebrations with music, parades arts & entertainment.

20 - 27 June - Golowan Festival & Mazey Day

Golowan, The Feast of St. John, is a large annual community arts festival that takes place in Penzance. It blends the Celtic traditions of Penglaz and the Serpent Dance with a programme of diverse festivities, entertainment and music.

4 July - Ayr Day, St Ives

A great day out for all the family..... join us for our 5th annual town fete including over 20 community and craft stalls, affordable local food and refreshments, arts & craft activities, circus skills workshops, live music from up and coming local bands, a range of exciting performances and much more! Also, come and play at our brand new Nature Play Park! Free admission. 11am-4pm

23 - 25 July - Port Eliot Festival

Festival of arts,literature and music on the Port Eliot Estate near St.Germans.

27 July - 6 August - St Endellion Summer Festival

World-class classical music festival at St.Endellion, near Port Isaac.

28 July - RNAS Culdrose Air Day

Fast jets, helicopters and military aircraft will demonstrate their capabilities as they zoom across the skies, and visitors will be able to meet aircrew who have served on frontline squadrons all over the world. New pilots who have just earned their “Wings”, experienced members of the Search and Rescue Squadron, and aircrews of Front Line Squadrons recently returned from operations in the Middle East, will all be present to explain how they operate their aircraft.

7 August - Goldsithney Charter Fair

Processions, music and celebrations in the village of Goldsithney near Marazion.

7 - 14 August - Henri Lloyd Falmouth Week

One of the South West’s premier sailing events.

15 - 21 August - Fowey Regatta

Fowey Royal Regatta is held every August & is one of Britain’s premier sailing events. However, not all the action takes place on the water; there’s plenty to keep landlubbers entertained, from children’s entertainment to the Red Arrows. Most of these events are free, & those that it is necessary to charge for are not inhibitive.

23 August - Newlyn Fish Festival

The Newlyn Fish Festival is the biggest one-day event in Cornwall, drawing crowds of over 20,000 people. They are attracted by the prospect of a whole array of seafood stands selling hot and cold seafood, including grilled Cornish sardines, mackerel, Newlyn crab, lobster, mussels, cockles, fish kebabs, Goan dishes and seafood paella. There are also demonstrations from the coastguard, fishing boat competitions, music, Cornish food producers and local artists and craftsmen. And this all takes place in Newlyn's active, pretty harbour area.

28 August - 4 September - Bude Jazz Festival

Jazz festival with a wide range of events taking place around the town of Bude.

11 - 25 September - St Ives September Festival

A festival of music and the arts taking place around St.Ives

14 - 17 October - Falmouth Oyster Festival

Falmouth Oyster Festival celebrates the start of the oyster season and the diversity and quality of Cornish Seafood. It includes a range of events including cookery demonstrations, music, parades and marquees with Cornish produce and crafts.