Penzance became a town around the 16th Century and it was originally called Pen Sans in the original Cornish Language. Since then Penzance has grown and matured into the vibrant and artistic center it is today. It is not only a perfect base for exploring West Cornwall but it is also the main commercial center for the Land's Eye peninsula.
Although tucked away in the corner of England, Penzance is easily accessible by road with a good motorway and dual carriageway network. There are easy rail and coach links from many parts of the country too.
Penzance offers a thriving shopping experience with many high street brands as well as the more traditional feel of local shops. Why not visit the Wharfside Shopping Center for a refreshing choice of cafes and eating places.
Penzance earns the distinction of having the oldest surviving Art Deco swimming lido in the UK. The Jubilee Pool is situated on the Promenade right next to the sea which makes a stunning location for swimming, sunbathing or just enjoying the views. Visit its Cafe offering homemade food not just at lunchtime but in the evenings as well.
With one of the warmest climates in Britain, spring flowers normally bloom early in Penzance and with its sub-tropical plants and trees Penzance has a Mediterranean feel. You can soak up this atmosphere at one of its many cafes or bars offering outside seating.
Choose one of the many restaurants in Penzance to satisfy your culinary desire. There's the humble "pasty", fresh locally caught fish, and other traditional English fare or you can explore different cuisines such as Thai or Indian - Penzance has it all.
Did you know Cornwall has its own mead and fruit wines? Visit Branswells Mill and sample your favorite wine - Bramwells is situated opposite the bus station. As well as Mead you can choose from Blackberry, Strawberry, Elderberry, Apricot, Peach or Cherry wines.
For art lovers Penzance has 2 exciting art galleries. Newlyn Art Gallery, which recently underwent a £4m refurbishment, focuses on exhibiting contemporary art and the work of local artists. Or choose the Exchange Gallery, opened in 2007, housing some of the very best of national and international contemporary art.
There are many outside sports in and around Penzance. For instance there is the Penzance Canoeing Club offering safe tuition for both novice and experienced canoeists. Visit the Penzance Tennis Club which offers excellent facilities for residents and visitors alike. Or if cricket is your wicket why not spend a leisurely day watching the Penzance Cricket Club playing Division 1 games each Saturday afternoon.
With its warm Atlantic Gulf Stream, Penzance gardens are home to a number of exciting and rare tropical plants. During the Victorian times, many gardeners sponsored the search for exotic plants and seeds that could be brought back to Cornwall. Today you can see the result of their vision by visiting the gardens at Morrab, Penlee, Trengwainton and Trewidden to name but a few.