Holiday rentals in Penzance

Penzance, Britain’s most southwesterly town, is nestled along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean and features some of Cornwall’s most dramatic beaches. Chapel Street is lined with antique shops and boutiques in stately 18th-century granite buildings; the town has a thriving arts scene combining galleries, museums, and manicured gardens in beautiful settings, such as the breathtaking 22-acre Tremenheere Sculpture Garden on rolling hills perched above the ocean. Farther along the coast, the Minack Theatre is carved into the side of a cliff, resembling an ancient Roman theatre. This exceptional setting draws theatre lovers from far and wide to see a combination of local performances and world-famous plays. On hot days, you can join the locals taking a dip in the Art Deco lido that harks back to the town’s history as a popular seaside resort.

Penzance is both a gateway to the Land’s End Peninsula and a great base for exploring Cape Cornwall and visiting some of the area’s historical sites, including West Cornwall’s ancient stones, St Michael’s Mount, and the tiny fishing village of Mousehole, with its granite cottages and picturesque harbour.

Cornwall is renowned for its relatively moderate coastal climate. During the summer, clear skies, ample sunshine, and warm temperatures are perfect for exploring the Cornwall coast and getting a taste of the county’s famous surfing scene. Spring and autumn are also great options for renting Penzance holiday cottages, as visitor numbers are lower and the weather is still warm enough for coastal walks and cream teas at open-air cafes. During the winter, Cornwall is milder than many other parts of the United Kingdom, but you’ll still need to pack layers. At this time of year, you can see some spectacular storms rising up from the Atlantic; it’s not uncommon to see 50-foot waves crashing against the cliffs.

Jubilee Lido

Constructed in 1935, this is the largest seawater pool in the United Kingdom, and has a large — and somewhat chilly — main pool and a smaller, thermally heated one. The Art Deco lido is located right on the edge of the ocean, and you’ll feel like you’re taking a dip in an infinity pool as you gaze out at sweeping views.

St Michael’s Mount

Reached by an ancient stone causeway jutting into the sea, St Michael’s Mount is a small island topped with a castle, a medieval stone church, and a tiny village full of shops and eateries. The walk to the castle is very steep, but you’ll be rewarded with unbeatable vistas of the Atlantic Ocean along the way. If the tide has covered the walkway, there are boats to ferry visitors to and from Marazion.

Cape Cornwall

Located 20 minutes west of Penzance, Cape Cornwall is the spot where the Atlantic currents divide. There are truly spectacular views to be had here. The cape was originally a tin mining site; today it is part of the Tin Coast and recognised by UNESCO as the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find historical ruins that stand testament to the headland’s importance to mining, including a 19th-century brick chimney.