Penzance

Penzance stands on the south facing shores of the beautiful Mounts Bay. It is a market town with a wealth of history, making it an interesting holiday venue.

Penzance (the name derived from the Cornish language "Pen Sans" meaning Holy Headland) is the centre of the regional district of Penwith "The furthest end". Within this district are a host of attractions including St Michael's Mount and Lands End.

Penzance began as a fishing community at the headland, next to the current harbour. This small area has been inhabited for over a millennium although records do not name Penzance until the 13TH century. From this period the town grew in importance with the town receiving its Royal Charter from James 1 in 1614.

The town makes a great holiday base, from which one can visit the attractions of Penwith. Additionally it is itself an interesting attraction with its promenade and selection of museums and galleries.

For more information about specific areas of Penzance click here.

   ACCOMMODATION

    LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

   ELSEWHERE IN PENWITH

For your holiday accommodation needs within the Penwith area.

Museums and other attractions, worth a visit while on holiday.

Towns and villages of interest close to Penzance.

  HISTORIC PAST

   WEATHER

   GEOLOGY

Penwith's historical past;   Wells Churches  Tin Mining   Pre-History Maritime Smuggling Lighthouses

Penwith's geology is primarily granite. Its igneous nature providing interesting land features and ore deposits.

   LOCAL ART

   SHORE LIFE

   WILDLIFE

Telephone 01736 330004 or email pznow@btopenworld.com for more details